Want Easy and Beautiful Longmont Family Photography? Try Sandstone Ranch.
Sandstone Ranch is one of the most popular family photography locations in Longmont and it isn’t hard to see why. Located in Eastern Longmont, unless you know this gem is there you won’t notice it. Hidden behind sport fields, this area is a wildlife reserve and historical site. With its wide variety of backdrops, beautiful scenery, and easy access, this is a must consider for anyone wanting family photography in Longmont.
Why this location is great for family photos
Variety
There is a lake, a river, a barn, a wide open field, and so much more at this location. Walk a few steps and you’ll have a completely different backdrop. You can also catch some mountains in the distance with certain angles and with clear weather. Something that is quite difficult to accomplish on this side of Longmont. The barn gives a great option for more western themed sessions. The little stream and small lake add a great serene feeling to the site that is unmatched at most locations. Because of the close proximity of trees to the water, the backdrop gives images a great variety of textures and layering.
This session is also great in its variety year-round. During the late spring and summer, greenery is prominent. Everything starts to turn green in mid-May. The fall is amazing here, because of the cottonwoods. And the winter and early spring is still great here, because of the all the textures between the trees, grasses, water, and barn. The background will be interesting, layered, and add a sense of depth to your photos regardless of the season.
Beautiful Scenery
Sandstone Ranch is a historic ranch. It is now a nature preserve for birds and wildlife. That’s one of the reasons dogs and pets aren’t allowed. They really want to preserve this spot for the wildlife. Because of their preservation efforts Sandstone Ranch is a beautiful location for so many reasons. It is a field with two lakes, a stream, and a historic barn. There are old growth trees, many native grasses, and mountains off in the distance, including Longs Peak.
Easy Access
There is ample parking here and it’s a short walk to the portrait locations. Most of the walkways are paved and little off roading is needed to get to great portrait locations. The portrait areas are also close together, so little walking is needed in between photos as well.
Why this location might be for you
Very kid friendly, as we can see in all directions at all time and the kids will have plenty to check out between photos
It has water, grassy areas, and some mountains views in your photos
It’s easily accessibile
It’s about halfway between Longmont and I-25, so it’s easy to get there from various different directions
Fall color is amazing here
It is extremely lush and green during the early spring and summer
It has a lot of dimension and texture for interesting backdrops during the colder months
Quick Location Facts
Very easily accessible. Wheelchairs would even have an easy time getting around
No permit or entry fee needed
40 minutes from Denver, 30 minutes from Boulder, 10 minutes from downtown Longmont, 45 minutes from Greeley, 45 minutes from Fort Collins
Can be photographed close to sunset time
This is one of the options for my petite maternity, newborn, and family sessions.
Please note that pets are not allowed at this location. That includes dogs and horses.
Sara Herkes is a maternity, newborn, family, and senior photographer based in Longmont, CO. She serves the the Denver Metro Area, the Colorado Rockies, and the Northern Front Range and captures your pregnancy amidst the Colorado wilderness. Learn more about her services here.
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