photo by The Hearnes

Not all who wander are lost, but you just might be if you don’t follow these tips for photographing in national parks! As exciting and fun as it may seem to photograph your couples in the great outdoors, there’s a lot more to it than just exploring a new area. From permits and fees to proper gear and wildlife, there’s a lot to consider before heading out on your next adventure session. But don’t worry, we took those first few steps and laid it all out for you in 8 quick and easy tips!

photo by Love Stories Co

Permits and Fees

National Parks are likely to have an entrance fee for visiting, but there can be additional permits and fees that you need to be aware of before taking your business to the mountains! Before assuming you’re good to go, double check to see if you need a special event permit for photographing a wedding (even if it’s an elopement)! Here are 10 popular parks you may need to know about:

Joshua Tree National Park: Permits and Fees
Olympic National Park: Permits and Fees
Redwood National Park: Permits and Fees
Rocky Mountain National Park: Permits and Fees
Yosemite National Park: Permits and Fees
Grand Canyon Nation Park: Permits and Fees
Zion National Park: Permits and Fees
Arches National Park: Permits and Fees
Mount Rainier National Park: Permits and Fees
Big Bend National Park: Permits and Fees

Sunrise and Sunset

Depending on the season, location, and terrain, the sunrise and sunset times will differ from park to park. When planning your session or assisting your couple in wedding planning, be aware of what time the sun will be up and going down. But don’t think you can only be outside during those times! Sometimes it’s helpful to start hiking before the sunrise to beat the crowds and heat, and you can often get some of the most incredible hours during blue hour.

photo by Henry Tieu

No Trespassing Zones

Be respectful of no trespassing zones that are marked off. As tempting as it is to cross those lines and explore that area anyway, you can end up doing more harm than good. There’s no telling why you could be unable to hike it – preservation, dangerous territory, unmarked trails, wildlife, etc. Instead, stick to the well-marked trails and areas you are familiar with.

Pets

As much as you love your furry friend, they aren’t always welcome at National Parks. Before having yours or your couple’s pup tag along, check the park’s rules and regulations for pets. But hey, you might be pleasantly surprised! Although some parks have rules against pets, others, like the Rocky Mountain National Park, will allow leashed dogs in designated areas, so be sure to double check before bringing your four-legged friend along for the ride.

photo by Maddie Mae Adventure Elopement

Hiking Gear

Photographing in national parks will have you doing a lot of hiking and being outside, so be sure to wear the proper clothing and bring some hiking essentials – boots, wear layers, water, snacks, first aid kit, etc. It’s better to prepare for the unexpected than be in a sticky situation miles and miles from help.

Trails

Trails are designed and mapped out for your convenience and safety. Following the guidelines of where to hike and explore, you have the opportunity to use a park map that will be helpful when navigating the outdoors. And don’t assume you can just hop on Google maps either – you won’t be finding wifi out in these parks. Research and download maps and trails to plan your route before heading to the park!

photo by Jordan Voth

Wildlife

Different parks may have different wildlife that is common to that area. It can be a good idea to research what animals can be found in the region you are visiting so you can be prepared for any potentially dangerous situations that you can try to avoid and how to get out of them. But remember, these parks are the home to so many incredible animals and creatures, so be mindful! Luckily, most national parks have a section that covers the popular wildlife and all of the do’s and don’ts that you need to know:

Leave No Trace

Most importantly, be kind and aware of your surroundings. With an increased number of national park visitors, it’s more important than ever to take care of the parks – this means to not disrupt the land by littering or harming your surroundings.

photo by Wolf & Rose Photography

With these tips, now you’re ready to rock your session at any national park!

Looking for more business tips and tricks? Take a look at these 6 tips for relocating your wedding photography business!

Photobug

Everything You Need to Know About Photographing in National Parks