Hi there!
I'm so excited for your upcoming session at Albion Basin! I can't wait to capture beautiful portraits and sweet memories for you and your family at one of Utah's most breathtaking locations. It's going to be such a fun evening, and I can't wait to see you!
Your session
Your session is officially scheduled—yay! I can’t wait!
We’ll go over timing details below, but for the actual DATE of your session, please refer to our previous messages, your session confirmation, or feel free to text me anytime. I’ll also send out reminders as we get closer so you have everything you need.
location & parking
Click here to access the pin for the parking lot
Albion Basin is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Albion Basin is part of the Alta Ski Resort. You’ll drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon–alllllll the way up. You’ll get to Alta Ski Resort, just stay on the main road until you come to the toll booth. Stop at the booth and pay the fee (it’s $12, and they take cash or card). Generally there is a line at the toll booth, and this is where you will wait until there is a parking place for you.
Once you're through the toll booth, continue up the well-maintained dirt road. Just stay on that road and follow it up the mountain (shown by the orange path on the map below). You'll eventually reach the Catherine's Pass Trailhead. There's a sign, a restroom, and a parking lot. If you're able to park there, perfect! We'll be taking your photos in the area I've circled in yellow.
If that parking lot is full, don't worry—you'll need to park in one of the two lots near the campground instead. The toll booth attendants will usually let you know which lot has available parking, but it never hurts to check the Catherine's Pass lot first just in case.
(See the map below for this section.)
If you need to continue, stay on the same road. It curves around the Catherine's Pass parking lot and starts heading downhill. The first parking lot will be on your left (circled in purple). If you see an open spot there, feel free to park! The campground will be directly ahead of you (outlined in green on the map). Please note that parking is not allowed inside the campground. If that lot is also full, turn right at the campground and continue to the final parking lot at the end of the road (circled in yellow).
I do have cell service at this location, so wherever you end up parking, please send me a quick text and keep me posted!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Albion is always busy, and for good reason—it’s only open in the summer and it is absolutely stunning up there. They are very strict about parking and only allow access if there’s an open spot available (they do monitor it closely, and yes, you can get ticketed for parking along the road). Because of that, I always plan to arrive early, and I recommend you do the same.
Here’s the important part: since Albion Basin sits so high in the mountains, the sun sets around the same time it does in the valley. There’s also no shade on the flower hills, which means even if we both get there early, we typically can’t start shooting until around 7:30 PM, with the absolute best light happening closer to 8–8:30 PM.
Plan to arrive between 6:15–6:30 PM to give yourself the best chance of securing parking. That does mean a bit of a wait before your session starts, but it’s completely worth it for the best lighting. I recommend bringing things for kids to do, snacks, or even planning a little picnic while you wait. You can always get ready in your car or the bathrooms right before we begin shooting.
I’ll reach out to your family personally to chat through what time you’d like to start. These details are just to help you start thinking about what matters most for your family when it comes to lighting and timing!
session tips
Feed your children before your session!
Family photos go so much smoother when everyone has a full belly! If you have a long drive or plan to arrive early, I recommend packing a picnic or bringing something to eat in the car beforehand. Feel free to bring a few simple snacks along, but try to keep them light to avoid stained outfits or food on little faces. Goldfish crackers, Cheerios, or fruit snacks are great options! If possible, save special treats or bribes for after the session.
Relax and enjoy the experience!
I know family pictures can feel a little stressful, but once you arrive, take a deep breath and let me take it from there. I've photographed hundreds of families over the years and will guide you every step of the way. My sessions are designed to feel natural, playful, and easy so your family can simply enjoy being together while I capture the moments.
Keep me in the loop.
I've already received your questionnaire and will review it before your session, but if anything comes up beforehand, don't hesitate to send me a text! Whether it's a special request, something your child is excited (or nervous) about, or any unique circumstances I should know, I'm always happy to plan ahead so your session is the best it can be.
I seriously can't wait for your session! It's going to be so fun and beautiful!
I will reach out before your session with a reminder as well as the morning of. If you need anything before that, feel free to text or call me!
Cambri (801)-857-0070