Bonneville Salt Flats Photographer
Experience the Magic of the Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah are one of the most breathtaking and surreal locations for a photoshoot. With its vast, white landscape and unique reflective surfaces, it’s a dream spot for photographers and clients alike.
Whether you're planning an engagement session, elopement, fashion shoot or creative portrait session, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your experience.
How to get to the Bonneville Salt Flats
From Salt Lake City:
Take I-80 W for a little over an hour and a half.
This will take you to a parking area with restrooms, covered and uncovered parking.
You will have access to drive right on to the salt flat.
PLEASE NOTE: If you miss the pull over for the salt flats you will have to drive a good ways down I-80W to get to a turn around spot. The highway has guardrails in-between most of the drive.
From West Wendover:
Take I-80 E for about an hour and fifteen minutes.
You will have to pass the pullover until you get to a turn around area due to the guardrails in-between most of the highway.
The best time to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats
Summer (June–August)
The salt flats are dry, creating the iconic cracked salt texture.
Extremely hot temperatures (90-100°F+), so early morning or sunset shoots are best.
The white surface can be blinding—bring sunglasses and sunscreen!
Fall (September–November)
Cooler temperatures and still mostly dry.
Ideal for golden-hour sessions without the intense summer heat.
Late fall may bring some rain, creating stunning mirror-like reflections.
Winter (December–February)
Occasional shallow water on the surface turns the flats into a breathtaking reflective mirror.
Colder temperatures and unpredictable weather—dress warmly.
Be mindful of accessibility; wet conditions can make driving tricky.
Spring (March–May)
The flats may still be wet, offering a reflective surface similar to winter.
Best time for dramatic skies and softer lighting.
Potentially muddy areas—avoid stepping in wet salt to prevent sinking.
Best Time of Day for Photos
Sunrise & Sunset: The golden light enhances the natural beauty of the flats.
Blue Hour (just after sunset): Creates a dreamy, soft-lit effect.
Midday: Best for high-fashion or editorial looks but can be harsh due to bright reflections.
NOTE: Before booking and planning a Bonneville Salt Flats photoshoot, I would suggest checking out the Bonneville Salt Flats Schedule of Events HERE.
What to Wear for a Bonneville Salt Flats Photoshoot
Neutral & Earth Tones: These colors complement the environment beautifully.
Footwear: Many go barefoot for a natural look, but if you wear shoes, opt for neutral tones, suede boots, or strappy sandals that match the boho vibe.
Bold Colors & Sequins: Burnt Orange, pinks, or pastels pop against the white backdrop. Sequins & textures are always a yes!
Textures & Layers: Sequins, lace, velvet, and crochet add depth and dimension, creating an ethereal, boho-inspired aesthetic.
Flowy Dresses & Fabrics: Billowing fabrics and maxi dresses create gorgeous movement in photos, enhancing the dreamy feel of the Salt Flats.
Essential Tips for Your Photoshoot
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Respect the Environment: Avoid littering and be mindful of the delicate salt surface.
Check Road Conditions: The access road can be tricky in wet conditions—use a 4WD if necessary.
Stay Hydrated: The dry environment can be dehydrating, so bring plenty of water.
Protect Your Skin & Eyes: The salt reflects sunlight intensely, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential.
Plan for the Wind: The area is often breezy, which can be great for movement in photos but may require extra hair styling considerations.
Bonneville Salt Flats Kayaking
Although you may be tempted to find the bright blue waters that you have seen in photos with people kayaking, please do not try this. The canals are industrial facilities leased for potash mining activities and are not designed or safe for public recreation usage.
Therefore, the public should not access, swim, float, kayak, canoe, or pursue any other recreation activities in these industrial canals. You can read more about that HERE.
How to prepare for your visit to the Bonneville Salt Flats
The drive from Salt Lake City to the Bonneville Salt Flats takes just over an hour and a half, so it’s important to be well-prepared.
Tooele, Utah, is the last major stop before reaching the Salt Flats, making it the perfect place to fuel up, grab snacks, pick up drive-thru food, champagne, and take a bathroom break. This will be your final chance to stock up on anything you might need, as there are no amenities beyond this point.
Depending on the time of year you plan your Salt Flats session, you’ll want to bring specific items to ensure you're comfortable in the conditions.
The salt surface is rough and can be harsh on footwear, often damaging shoes over time. Be sure to bring a pair you don’t mind getting worn out or even going barefoot for some shots.
Download the FREE Bonneville Salt Flats Printable Photoshoot Checklist.
Quick Bonneville Salt Flats Packing List.
One towel or two
Couple of trash bags
Shoes you don't care too much about
Sunscreen with SPF 50+
Lots of water
Change of clothes for the ride back
Wet Wipes
Bug Spray
Snacks
Don't forget to gas up your car beforehand
Tips for a Smooth Bonneville Salt Flats Photoshoot
Check the Weather Forecast
The weather at the Bonneville Salt Flats can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out. Conditions can vary from intense heat and strong winds to an abundance of bugs or even a water-covered surface. Knowing what to expect will help ensure a comfortable and well-prepared trip.
Shoot at Sunrise or Sunset
For the best lighting, plan your shoot around sunrise or sunset. Outside of these times, the Flats are fully exposed to the sun, which can create harsh lighting and intense glare. While overcast days make for great all-day shooting, they are rare in this area.
Don't Forget Sunscreen
The white salt reflects sunlight intensely, so bring and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen to protect your skin.
Prepare Your Hair for Wind
The Salt Flats are often windy, so style your hair in a way that can work with movement, whether that’s braids, waves, or a secure updo.
Pack the Essentials
Bring plenty of water, snacks, towels, and trash bags to stay comfortable and keep the area clean.
Plan Restroom Stops
Gas stations and restrooms are extremely limited near the Salt Flats. Be sure to use the bathroom before leaving a town with facilities. From personal experience, the restrooms at the Salt Flats are not well-maintained—going outdoors may actually be the better option.
Fuel Up Before You Go
The drive from Tooele, Utah, to the Salt Flats takes about an hour and a half. If you’re coming from Wendover, NV, expect a one-hour and 16-minute drive. Gas stations are sparse, so fill up before heading out.
Don’t Miss Your Exit!
Most importantly, DO NOT miss the exit for the Bonneville Salt Flats! The highway is lined with guardrails, and turnarounds are few and far between. If you pass the exit, you could be adding nearly an hour to your drive just to get back.
Bonneville Salt Flats Photographer.
Hi, It’s lovely to meet you. I’m Erin
I’m a Couples, Elopement Boudoir and Portrait Photographer based in Monterey, California, but I’m always ready to travel to breathtaking locations—like the Bonneville Salt Flats—to capture unforgettable moments.
My superpower? Designing, planning and photographing one-of-a-kind sessions for couples and individuals who want something truly unique. If you’re dreaming of a session that stands out—one that doesn’t look like any other photoshoot you’ve seen—then you’re in the right place.
With 7+ years of experience, I’ve refined a process tailored to your vision and pace. From selecting the perfect curated locations to assisting with activities, vendor recommendations, lodging suggestions, timelines, permits, and logistics—I take care of the details so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
Ready to create something magical at the Bonneville Salt Flats? Let’s bring your vision to life.
Capturing.
Boudoir
Maternity
Engagements
Elopements
Bridals
How much do my Photography Packages Cost?
Bonneville Salt Flats Photography Packages
Package One
Four Hour Session
300 Edited High Res Images
Online Gallery Access
Printing Rights
$5,000.00
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Package Two
Three Hour Session
200 Edited High Res Images
Online Gallery Access
Printing Rights
$4,000.00
*Most Popular Package
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Package Three
Two Hour Session
100 Edited High Res Images
Online Gallery Access
Printing Rights
$3,000.00
*
All Bonneville Salt Flats Packages include.
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TRAVEL INCLUDED
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![FUN LAID BACK PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE]()
FUN LAID BACK EXPERIENCE
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![FREE PLANNING CONSULTATION]()
EXPERT PLANNING CONSULTATION
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![WARDROBE CONSULTATION]()
WARDROBE CONSULTATION
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![expert photography session planning]()
PERSONALIZED SESSION PLANNING
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![EXPERT PERMIT ADVICE]()
EXPERT PERMIT ADVICE
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EMPATHETIC, FRIENDLY POSING
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![One of a kind design experience]()
ONE OF A KIND SESSION DESIGN
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![CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHY TIMELINE CREATION]()
CUSTOM TIMELINE CREATION
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![UP TO DATE EQUIPMENT & INSURANCE]()
UP TO DATE EQUIPMENT & INSURANCE
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![ARTISTIC HAND CRAFTED EDITS]()
ARTISTIC HAND CRAFTED EDITS
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![CONVENIENT PRINT ORDERING]()
CONVENIENT PRINT ORDERING
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![UNIQUE SESSION IDEAS]()
UNIQUE SESSION IDEAS
A few more unique things about working with me.
ULC Monastery Ordained officiant
All are welcome here.
Proudly practicing leave no trace.
Woman owned.
Reach out to start planning your Bonneville Salt Flats Photoshoot.
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