Where I Love to Photograph in the Black Hills
There’s something quietly magical about the Black Hills — the way the light filters through pine, the hush of canyon walls, the stillness of alpine lakes. As a photographer drawn to natural settings and moments, this region offers endless inspiration. Whether I’m capturing a family portrait or a couple exchanging vows beneath the pines, these are the places I return to again and again.
Here are a few of my favorite locations to photograph — each with its own rhythm, mood, and story to tell.
Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park Sylvan Lake is pure serenity. With its glassy water, dramatic rock formations, and winding trails, it’s a dream for sunset sessions and intimate weddings. The light here is soft and cinematic, especially in the early morning or golden hour. I love how the lake reflects emotion — calm, quiet, and deeply personal.
Spearfish Canyon This canyon is a living painting. In fall, it bursts into golds and ambers; in spring, it hums with waterfalls and wildflowers.Roughlock Falls is an easy access and beautiful spot for portraits, but even the roadside pull-offs offer breathtaking backdrops. It’s perfect for couples who want something moody and romantic, or families who feel most at home in nature.
Deadwood For a touch of grit and history, Deadwood delivers. Its weathered textures, vintage signage, and cobblestone streets lend themselves to editorial-style portraits with character. I especially love shooting weddings here— it feels timeless, like stepping into a story.
Custer State Park (Beyond Sylvan) Beyond the lake, Custer State Park is full of hidden meadows, winding trails, and quiet corners where wildlife sometimes wanders into frame. It’s vast and varied — ideal for senior sessions, engagement shoots, or simply letting kids run free while I capture the joy.
Hidden Lakes & Secret Spots Some of my favorite images come from places I won’t name — not out of secrecy, but because they’re meant to be discovered. Quiet ponds tucked off gravel roads. Aspen groves that shimmer in September. Places where the wind carries stories and the light feels sacred. If you’re up for a little adventure, I’ll take you there.
Whether you’re planning a session or simply dreaming of the Black Hills, I hope this inspires you to see the beauty in the wild and the quiet. These places aren’t just backdrops — they’re part of the story.
Let’s create something timeless together.