As Fort Collins based wedding photographers, we were excited to capture some fun and colorful engagement photos for Kaylynn & Nate in what felt like our own backyard before the leaves faded in downtown Fort Collins!
This session reminded us yet again why we love Colorado’s extended fall season — it feels like we get two chances to revel in the beauty of autumn. September brings vibrant colors to the mountains, and by late October, the Front Range puts on its own golden glow. This time of year feels fleeting, but sessions like this help us savor every last drop of it.
Kaylynn and Nate’s session captured the magic of fall in downtown Fort Collins. We started at CSU’s Oval, wandered through Old Town Square, and ended with breathtaking sunset views at Horsetooth Reservoir. Here’s a look at why these locations are some of our favorites for fall photography.
The Golden Glow at the CSU Oval
The Oval on CSU’s campus has an amazing display of color in the fall. Towering American Elms line the expansive green space, forming a canopy that turns a vibrant golden-yellow as the season peaks makes for an eye-popping backdrop. The light here filters through the leaves, creating a warm, diffused glow that’s so flattering for photos.
There’s something magical about walking under those golden trees with leaves crunching underfoot — it feels quintessentially autumn. The symmetry and maturity of the trees makes for a magical spot, offering both wide-open vistas and intimate nooks for portraits. In the end of October, it might have one of the most stunning displays of color in downtown Fort Collins, and it’s a great place to visit whether you’re taking photos or simply soaking in the season.
Exploring Downtown Fort Collins: Old Town Square
After leaving the Oval, we headed to Old Town Square in downtown Fort Collins, where the unique character of the area added a playful and urban twist to Kaylynn and Nate’s session. With its historic brick buildings, brick alleyways, and vibrant murals, Old Town Square is filled with personality.
We wandered through alleys with warm lighting and posed by storefronts. Kaylynn and Nate’s connection really shined here, surrounded by the lively yet intimate atmosphere of downtown. It’s the kind of location that brings out the fun side of any couple — plus, it’s always a treat to capture photos in a space that feels so uniquely Fort Collins.
Epic Views at Horsetooth Reservoir
For the grand finale, we ventured up to Horsetooth Reservoir to catch the sunset and blue hour. Horsetooth is one of the most iconic spots in Fort Collins, and for good reason. The sweeping views of the reservoir and rolling foothills makes it so special, especially during the golden hour when the landscape glows with soft, warm light. We couldn’t help but feel in awe of the natural beauty surrounding us. Once the sun set, we grabbed a few last portraits with the quiet, moody tones of blue hour.
Why We Love Fall in Fort Collins
Every session is unique, but there’s something truly special about fall in downtown Fort Collins. From the glowing trees at CSU’s Oval to the character-rich streets of Old Town and the dramatic views at Horsetooth, the city offers an incredible variety of settings. It’s no wonder we find ourselves saying, “just one more spot!” every time.
Kaylynn and Nate’s session was a reminder of why we love this season so much. It’s not just the beauty of the scenery — it’s the joy of sharing these moments with couples who are just as excited to embrace the magic of fall. We’ll keep chasing that golden glow for as long as we can, and we’re so grateful to Kaylynn and Nate exploring with us.
If you’re dreaming of your own fall session in downtown Fort Collins, let’s make it happen!
Looking for more examples of Fort Collins engagement photos or would like to learn more about our engagement photography packages? Check out pricing page for details or our blog for more recent work!