Hey there, milspouse photographer! I’m so excited to share another location guide with you. Christa Paustenbaugh is settling in Fort Collins, CO after her husband’s retirement from the Marines. While they aren’t stationed at F. E. Warren AFB, she still has some local scoop since she lives closeby! If your family is PCSing to that area soon, this Cheyenne, WY photography spotlight can help get you started!

What are your top three favorite locations for sessions? Briefly share about each.

Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes Park)

This area is amazing for those quintessential Colorado mountain photos! Absolutely gorgeous spots with minimal walking, or for those up for an adventure, a hike is always an option. With the sun coming through the mountains so beautifully, it’s honestly a great area all year long if you’re up for some snowy photos in the winter!

Viestenz-Smith Park (Loveland)

This is a great park on the way to Estes Park that gets a bit of Mountain View, but has great fields and buildings, plus a river to use for photos. This spot does not require a permit so it’s a bonus, but it is closed due to weather from late October to April.

Horsetooth Reservoir (Fort Collins)

In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful spots in Fort Collins! It has such a great sunsets and golden light. It’s a great spot to get the sweeping area of the reservoir and the mountains behind it as well.

Are there any particularly busy seasons for photographers in this area? Any events an incoming photographer should know about?

Summer and fall are by far the busiest seasons for photographers. Lots of tourists come into the area in the summer and fall to visit the mountains.

What should an incoming photographer know about permits in this area?

Do your homework on permits!!! Most places require one and rangers will check to see if yours is current. There are permits for counties, specific parks, yearly, by session, etc. Research it!

What is the biggest piece of advice you’d give to an incoming photographer?

Like many beautiful areas, this one is saturated with photographers as well, but there are plenty of opportunities for everyone.

Any other local expertise you’d like to share?

As with beach photography, mountain photography can be tricky as light gets lost early. Learning how early to shoot somewhere is important!

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: www.christapaustenbaugh.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/christa_paustenbaugh

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Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!

If you enjoyed this Cheyenne, WY photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!