Cozy Fall Engagement Photos at Echo Lake With Outfit Tips

Michele and Zach’s engagement session was such a sweet one! I had done their first round of engagement photos in their home, but after Michele saw so many of my signature mountain sessions, she wanted to book one for the fall and line it up with her hair and makeup trial from Makeup by Mekinzie. Of course I was happy to accommodate, and these photos ended up being perfect for their holiday cards! We chose Echo Lake, one of my absolute favorite locations, and it could not have been more perfect. Keep scrolling for all my favorite moments!

A Chilly Colorado Adventure

Let’s talk about the weather for a second because wow, it was cold. We were originally supposed to go to Brainard Lake, but after looking at the crazy wind conditions, decided to pivot to Echo Lake! The mountain peaks were starting to get dusted with snow, but it never quite made it down to us at Echo Lake. There was still a smidge of fall color hanging on around the lake, even though the drive up was pretty bare. Honestly, it created the prettiest, moody mountain vibe for their photos.

Outfit Planning Made Easy

We started in an outfit that felt more springy while the sun was still out, then switched into warmer clothes once the temperature dropped. This is something I usually suggest with all of my sessions, especially outdoor ones in the mountains of Colorado.

Having a second, cozier look gives your gallery versatility and captures more of your full personality. Michele wore a long coat over a long-sleeve, and taking the coat on and off gave us a couple of different looks without another full outfit change. It kept them comfortable and gave the session both that light, airy feel and a cozier mountain vibe. Want more outfit ideas? Check out my Colorado engagement outfit guide here!

Why Echo Lake Is One of My Favorite Colorado Engagement Photo Locations

Echo Lake is such an underrated gem for Colorado engagement photos. It gives you that true mountain feel without a long hike, which makes it perfect for couples who want epic scenery without a ton of effort. You get lake reflections, evergreen trees, mountain backdrops, and quiet trails all in one spot.

I also love how versatile it is throughout the year. In the fall, you get soft color and moody tones. In winter, it turns into a snowy, alpine dream. And in summer, everything feels lush and peaceful. It’s a location that feels intimate and scenic at the same time, which makes it ideal for engagement sessions that focus on connection and candid moments.

Let’s Capture Your Colorado Engagement Photos Next!

Colorado has no shortage of incredible mountain locations for engagement photos, and Echo Lake is such a great choice if you want a lot of variety without overcomplicating your session. I always help my couples plan around the season, location, and weather so you can feel comfortable, confident, and fully present during our time together.

If you’re dreaming of outdoor engagement photos in Colorado, inquire below! I’d love to help bring that vision to life. And if you’re still deciding on a location, be sure to check out this blog where I share my favorite mountain engagement photo locations in Colorado.

Emily Carter Photography | Colorado Engagement Photographer