A Dream Come True: Sadee & Colin's Engagement Session at Little Sahara Desert


It has always been my dream to shoot at the Little Sahara desert in Utah. This year, that dream came true when I had the opportunity to capture Sadee and Colin's engagement photos in this stunning location. It wasn’t just the breathtaking scenery that made this session so special—it was also the personal connection I had with Sadee and witnessing the love she shares with Colin that truly made it unforgettable.


A Longtime Connection with Sadee


I've known Sadee since she was little. I used to dance with her older sister on a junior high dance company, and whenever Sadee would visit, she’d join in with us. Even as a tiny girl, she would completely outshine us, she was 1000x better than me. She had it all as a dancer: flexibility, turns, technique, tricks, EVERYTHING!  It was obvious she had a natural talent for dance, and now, looking back at this session, it is incredible to see how that talent still shines through in her movements! In the photos you can tell she is a dancer! Toes are pointed and her movements look easy and natural, those lifts though! Colin had the strength and she had the perfect core strength to look like a graceful ballerina. She looked just as amazing as when she was a little girl dancing circles around us all those years ago.


The Adventure


Getting to the shoot location was an adventure in itself! Sadee and Colin brought their side-by-side, and I followed closely behind in their friend’s side-by-side as we made our way through the rolling dunes to the perfect spot. Sadee had scouted the location beforehand, and her planning really paid off. I have to admit, I was a little scared by the speed of the side-by-side as we raced through the sand, but I was so glad I didn’t have to drive! The thrill of the ride definitely set the tone for what would be an amazing and dynamic session. The Little Sahara Desert, with its endless dunes and wide-open skies, was the perfect backdrop to capture Sadee and Colin’s fearless, adventurous spirits. The landscape seemed to mirror their energy—bold, wild, and ready for anything.

Planning a Shoot at Little Sahara


If you’re considering having your engagement or bridal photos taken at Little Sahara, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Fee for Parking: There’s a small fee for vehicles to park in the desert area, so be sure to have cash or a card on hand.
  • Restrooms Available: Despite its remote location, there are restrooms near the parking area, which is helpful after such a long drive! The bathrooms are no the cleanest, but do give privacy if you are hoping to change in a second outfit.
  • Far from Salt Lake City: Little Sahara is roughly a two-hour drive from Salt Lake City, so plan accordingly and give yourself plenty of time for travel.
  • Bring Water: Since the area is quite remote, there aren’t any nearby places to buy food or water. Be sure to pack plenty of water, especially if you’re shooting during the warmer months. And if you really want to be prepared, bring snacks!


Capturing Magic at Sunset

We timed the session perfectly to capture the golden light of sunset. As the sun dipped closer to the horizon, the soft, warm glow bathed the dunes, creating a magical backdrop for Sadee and Colin's love story. Sunset in the desert is an absolute must—the way the light plays off the sand and the sky adds an ethereal quality to every shot.


The First Look: Romantic in White


For their first look, Sadee wore a beautiful, flowing white dress. The fabric caught the soft breeze, adding an elegant movement to each shot. The white dress stood out perfectly against the neutral tones of the sand, and with the sun setting in the background, it created a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere. Colin didn’t want to change outfits, which, honestly, was perfect for him. His laid-back, no-fuss personality came through in every shot, and it worked seamlessly with both of Sadee’s looks. He wore a casual outfit that was comfortable and suited him, and Sadee’s white dress was a beautiful contrast to his simplicity, making the photos even more striking.

In some of my favorite photos from this part of the shoot, Sadee and Colin shared playful moments that felt spontaneous and genuine. Whether they were walking hand-in-hand along the dunes or laughing at something unseen, the flowing dress added a softness and grace that elevated the mood of every photo. And then, when Colin lifted her, Sadee’s background in dance became immediately apparent. Her pointed toes, poised perfectly in the air, added a level of elegance that was hard to miss. It’s these little details that made this session not just about their love, but also about the beauty of movement and expression.