If you want engagement photos that feel more like a date and less like a photoshoot, a Manitou Springs Engagement Session is such a good move. Manitou has this laid-back, artsy vibe that makes it super easy to relax, be yourselves, and actually have fun while taking photos. This session was playful, meaningful, and honestly just a really good time.
Candy Shops, First Dates & Making It Personal
This session was extra special because the couple chose Manitou Springs for a reason. Their first few dates revolved around candy shops, so this location felt nostalgic and full-circle in the best way. We stopped into The Candy Bar, which is packed with bright colors and all the classic sweets. Huge thanks to them for letting us take photos inside—it added so much personality to the session and made the photos feel truly personal. We also grabbed ice cream, because honestly… engagement sessions should always include treats. It keeps things relaxed and gives you something fun to do with your hands (and yes, it’s as cute as it sounds).
Why a Manitou Springs Engagement Session is an awesome location
A Manitou Engagement Session gives you so much variety in one small area, which means more storytelling and less driving. Whether you’re drawn to artsy city moments or sweeping Colorado scenery, Manitou Springs delivers both! Just a few reasons why couples love it:
- Eclectic downtown vibes with colorful storefronts and local character.
- Walkable locations that make sessions relaxed and adventurous. I highly recommend planning your engagement session during the week. Manitou Springs is a very small town and can get crowded quickly. Sunrise sessions, or mid-week sessions, typically work best.
- Close proximity to epic nature (hello, red rocks and mountain views)!
- Laid-back, playful energy with awesome spots to sneak away from the main road.
Ending the Engagement Session at Garden of the Gods for Sunset
After hanging around downtown, we headed to Garden of the Gods for sunset—and it did not disappoint.
Garden of the Gods is one of those places that never gets old. The red rocks, the open views, the way everything glows at golden hour… it’s a classic Colorado backdrop and the perfect way to wrap up a Manitou Engagement Session. You get those epic scenic shots without losing the fun, relaxed energy from earlier in the session.
To wrap up the evening, we headed to Garden of the Gods for sunset—and wow! This spot is iconic for a reason. Ending a Manitou Engagement Session at Garden of the Gods gives you that classic Colorado feel while still keeping the day relaxed and fun. It’s the perfect balance of playful downtown energy and jaw-dropping scenery.
Is a Manitou Engagement Session Right for You?
A Manitou Engagement Session might be perfect if:
- You want photos that feel natural and candid!
- You love color, character, and a little bit of chaos (the fun kind)!
- You want your engagement photos to tell a story!
- You like the idea of mixing downtown vibes with iconic nature!
From candy shops and ice cream stops to sunset at Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs is such an underrated gem for engagement photos.
If you’re thinking about planning your own Manitou Engagement Session and want help choosing locations that actually mean something to you, I’m always down to brainstorm. Let’s make it fun.
From candy shops and ice cream stops to golden-hour magic at Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs is one of the best places in Colorado to tell your love story in a way that feels effortless and fun!
