Trying to capture great photos in Zion National Park but feeling a little overwhelmed?
I totally get it. Zion is one of the most photogenic national parks in the country – but it’s also one of the hardest to photograph well. The canyon walls create harsh shadows. The light changes fast. Crowds show up earlier than you’d expect. And those iconic shots you see online? Half the time you don’t know where they were taken or what time of day they actually look like that.
The good news? I can help.
I’ve photographed Zion in every season—sunrise in the canyon, mid-day on the trails, and those magical evenings when the cliffs turn fiery red. I’ve learned what works, what definitely doesn’t, and how to get the shots you’ll actually be proud of. I’ll share the angles I love, the ones that disappointed me, and the little tweaks that make a big difference.
This is best for anyone bringing a camera to Zion – whether it’s a DSLR, a mirrorless setup, or just your phone – and wanting photos that feel dramatic, vibrant, and true to what the park actually looks like.
Quick teaser? The Watchman at sunset is hands-down one of the easiest and most stunning photos you’ll get on your first trip.
These tips will help you create images that feel personal and intentional—not the same shots everyone else has.
Alright, let’s get into the good stuff and make sure you leave Zion with photos you’ll love.
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Table of Contents
Tips for Taking Zion National Park Photos
‼️ If you’re planning to take sunrise or sunset photos, get there well in advance. The viewpoints are popular and you want to be able to secure a spot. Check the sunrise and sunset times for Zion National Park here.
‼️ Try to be there for Golden Hour – the hour before sunset and the hour after sunrise.
‼️ If you’re there for sunset, don’t leave as soon as the sun sets. The best color in the sky/ clouds is after the sun sets.
‼️ Stay for Blue Hour – after the sun has set when the sky forms a dark blue backdrop for photos.
‼️ Use a long exposure selection on your camera.
‼️ Take a tripod to photograph sunrise and sunset. If you need to hike in, consider a simple tripod like a Gorillapod.
‼️ It can be very cold in the morning even during summer months. Dress warmly and dress in layers
Essential Equipment for Zion Photography
Here is some essential equipment you’ll need.
1. A camera (or camera phone)
Zion National Park is a photographer’s dream. I often just use my iPhone and this is OK for vacation snaps, but if you’re serious about photography, you’ll have a real camera with all the bells and whistles, and you will certainly take better photos than I do. A good choice is a Sony A6400 camera.
2. A tripod
For photos in the early morning or late afternoon, a tripod is essential for long exposure shots. Since you need to hike to many of these viewpoints, a Gorillapod tripod can be a handy alternative to a traditional tripod. It’s small, light and flexible, and can be set up on all types of uneven surfaces. They sell them for regular cameras and cell phones.
➡️ Check out prices for regular camera Gorillapods here and for cell phone Gorillapods here.
3. A wide-angle lens and a zoom lens
If you’re taking photos on your cell phone, it can be helpful to get a wider angle lens than phones come with in order to capture the more expansive views.
You can get a set of a 0.45x wide-angle lens and a 15x macro lens for close ups. It’s compatible with all single and dual-camera phones including all iPhone models, Samsung Galaxy and Note, Google Pixel, Huawei and more. ➡️ Check prices on Amazon here.
If you’re using your phone camera, the digital zoom on a camera phone gives the illusion of getting close, but then when you look at the photos later, they are not at all clear. An optical zoom is much better.
For a zoom lens, check out this 28x telephoto lens. It works on the front and rear cameras for both single-camera and multi-camera phones including iPhone11 XS MAX XS XR X 8 Plus 8 7 Plus 7 6 Plus 6, Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus S9 S8 Plus S8 S7, Edge S7 S6 Edge+ S6 Edge S6, Google Pixel 3 XL 3 2 XL 2 XL LG iPad, Motorola HTC One Plus, HUAWEI and more.➡️ Check out prices on Amazon here.
4. Binoculars or Spotting Scope
Your trip doesn’t need to be all about just the photos. Sometimes it’s good just to soak in the views. A good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope is a great investment for this trip.
The best binoculars for the money are the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars. They are reasonably priced and come with a carry case. ➡️ Check them out on Amazon here.
Because I take binoculars on all of my trips, I’ve done extensive research into the best binoculars. These detailed guides include helpful info on what to look for, detailed reviews of the best of the best, and recommendations based on what exactly you will use them for and your price range:
➡️ Guide to the best binoculars for the money
➡️ Guide to the best binoculars under $300
➡️ Guide to the best binoculars under $200
➡️ Guide to the best binoculars under $100
➡️ Best Spotting Scopes for Wildlife Viewing
Where are the best views in Zion?
➡️ Read my guide to the best viewpoints in Zion National Park.
Or watch the best photo spots Zion National Park on video:
🔔 You can also watch this video on YouTube directly (opens in new tab).
🎙️ Or listen as a podcast:
Have a great trip to Zion! I hope this guide helps you take great photos in Zion.
More Planning Resources for Zion National Park
⭐ Zion National Park Guide
⭐ Zion Itineraries
⭐ Planning a Trip to Zion National Park
⭐ 7 Mistakes to Avoid
⭐ How Many Days in Zion National Park?
⭐ Best Hikes in Zion National Park
⭐ How To Get Angels Landing Permits
⭐ Hiking The Narrows In Zion National Park
⭐ Best Things To Do In Zion National Park
⭐ Canyoneering In Zion National Park
⭐ Tips For Visiting Zion National Park
⭐ 12 Best Things to Do in Zion National Park for Non Hikers
⭐ How To Get To Zion National Park
⭐ Zion Shuttle Service Guide
⭐ How to visit Zion Without Using the Shuttle
⭐ The Airports closest to Zion National Park
⭐ The Closest Airport to Zion National Park
⭐ The Best Time of Year to Visit Zion National Park
⭐ Visiting Zion Throughout the Year
⭐ 12 Fun Facts About Zion National Park
⭐ Best Books About Zion National Park
⭐ Best Vacation Rentals Near Zion National Park
⭐ The 5 Best Easy Hikes in Zion National Park
📷 Best Views in Grand Teton National Park
📷 Best Views in Grand Canyon National Park
📷 Best Views in Bryce Canyon National Park
📷 Best Views in Olympic National Park
📷 Best Views in Shenandoah National Park
Which Zion National Park photo spots are you most excited to see? Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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Guide to The Best Photo Spots in Zion National Park
💡 Are you just starting to think about taking a national parks trip? Get Inspiration
‼️ Are you looking for helpful tips for visiting US national parks? Read articles that share useful tips on a range of national-park related issues
💻 Are you starting to plan a trip to Zion National Park? Read my Guide to Zion National Park
📋 Do you want a ready-made super detailed plan for your trip to Zion? Get a detailed 1 – 3-day Zion National Park Itinerary
🛏️ Are you looking for a place to stay near Zion National Park? Find a vacation rental near Zion National Park
💲 Are you ready to book your trip? Use these Planning and Booking Resources
📖 Do you want to read a book about Zion National Park? Check out my Recommended Reading List for Zion National Park
About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.