Top 10 Places to Take Pictures in Southern Utah: #5 – The White Rock Amphitheater
If you’re looking for a truly epic and natural location that feels a little off the beaten path, White Rock Amphitheater is one of Southern Utah’s most stunning photo spots. Carved from sandstone and surrounded by layers of white rock and dramatic cliffs, it creates a powerful yet peaceful backdrop for both children’s and family sessions.
I’ve used this location for sessions where I wanted to let the landscape do the storytelling — kids exploring the stone “stage,” dancing barefoot, or simply sitting in awe beneath towering walls of ancient rock.
Why White Rock Amphitheater Stands Out:
1. Striking Natural Colors
The bright white rock against the blue sky and surrounding red cliffs creates an eye-catching and almost otherworldly color palette. Wardrobe choices pop here — from deep earth tones to soft pastels, everything stands out beautifully.
2. Unique, Open Composition
The amphitheater has a natural symmetry and space that lends itself well to portraits with depth and drama. Whether you’re capturing a child dancing solo in the center or a family standing together at the edge, the setting adds scale and presence to your story.
3. Great Light at Many Times of Day
Thanks to the open layout and reflective white rock, you can shoot here at more flexible hours. While golden hour is always stunning, mid-morning or late afternoon also produce glowing, even light especially in the late Autumn, Winter, and early spring months.
4. A Place to Explore
Kids love this location — there’s room to climb, sit, and play in nature without distractions. Their curiosity leads to real, unscripted moments that I love to capture. It’s especially fun after it has rain when kids love to look at the water. There are beautiful moments here where reflections are captured in the glassy water. In Spring time there are often tadpoles in the water pools.
5. A Natural Work of Art
This spot doesn’t need props or extras. The textured rock walls, gentle curves, and stunning contrast between earth and sky offer a natural frame for portraits that feel elevated, intentional, and completely unique.
6. Permit Required for Professional Use
Snow Canyon requires a professional photography visa — This means an added fee of $45 is required to to Photography sessions within the State Park, Including White Rock Amphitheater.
If you’re dreaming of photos that feel both wild and elegant — with space to move and beauty in every direction — White Rock Amphitheater is a destination worth the short drive.
Contact me to schedule your session — let’s create something unforgettable in one of Southern Utah’s hidden gems.
