How to Plan the Perfect Cottagecore Photoshoot in Utah

Jun 4

If you’re dreaming of soft linen dresses, wildflowers, and an old-world cottage backdrop, a cottagecore-inspired photoshoot might be exactly what you need. As a Utah-based fantasy photographer, I specialize in creating styled photo sessions that feel like stepping into a storybook and cottagecore is one of my absolute favorite styles to shoot.

Whether you’re in Salt Lake County, Provo, or the Wasatch backcountry, here’s how to plan the most picture perfect cottagecore shoot right here in Utah.

women in a flowy dress for a cottagecore styled photoshoot

Woman in a flowy linen dress holding a wicker basket outside a cottage – cottagecore photoshoot by Utah fantasy photographer Karly Tuuhetaufa. — Step 1: Choose a Flowy, Romantic Dress

The heart of every cottagecore shoot is the **perfect dress**. Look for soft, flowy fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon. Puff sleeves, earthy florals, or prairie details add that dreamy, vintage touch.

Editorial cottagecore portrait with a puff-sleeved dress, cottage background, and soft golden light – styled shoot in Utah — Step 2: Find a Charming Cottage Location

The right setting makes all the difference. As a photographer working across **Utah County and Salt Lake City**, I’ve scouted unique, locally owned cottages, flower farms, and tucked away locations that give that timeless, countryside feel. From stone porches to ivy-covered doors, we’ll find a backdrop that feels like it came straight from a novel.

Girl reading a book on a stone cottage step, dressed in a soft floral dress – whimsical cottagecore shoot in Utah — Step 3: Bring Along a Book You Love

A well loved book adds that extra storytelling layer to your shoot. We’ll capture you reading on a cottage step, resting in a field, or flipping pages in golden hour light. Clients often bring their favorite classics like *Wuthering Heights* or *Little Women* for that nostalgic, literary vibe.

Close-up of wildflowers and vintage books inside a woven basket – styled fantasy session in Salt Lake City. — Step 4: Don’t Forget the Basket

Nothing says cottagecore like a **wicker basket** filled with beautiful, simple things:
Fresh picked flowers
Fruit from the farmer’s market
A lace shawl or soft scarf
A handwritten letter or your journal
These details not only give your photos richness, they tell a story

Step 5: Add Personal Touches

The best cottagecore shoots feel lived-in and personal. Consider adding:

A blanket to sit on in the grass
A wildflower crown or ribbon in your hair
Soft makeup and natural lighting
Bare feet for a more grounded, earthy look

As your photographer, I’ll guide you through every step, posing, mood, styling. So you feel relaxed, confident, and radiant.

Why Book a Cottagecore Photoshoot with Me?

I’m Karly, a Utah fantasy photographer passionate about turning daydreams into visual stories. I specialize in luxury fantasy, editorial, and fairytale-inspired photoshoots in Salt Lake County, Provo, and beyond.

My goal? To give you not just a gallery of beautiful images but an experience that feels slow, intentional, and absolutely magical.

Let’s Create Something Soft, Storybook Worthy, and Unforgettable

Ready to plan your own dreamy cottagecore shoot? Whether you already have a location in mind or want help styling from start to finish, I’m here to make the process easy and beautiful.

Click here to contact me or message me on Instagram @karlytuuhetaufaphoto