St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Why the St. Anthony Sand Dunes Are a Dream Photography Location in Eastern Idaho

Looking for a unique and dreamy spot for your next photo session? Just a short drive from Rexburg, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes offer a stunning, minimalist backdrop that’s ideal for creating bright, airy, and artistic imagery. As a Rexburg photographer, this is one of my favorite locations for couples, bridals, and even maternity sessions.

The soft white sand and vast open sky create a light, neutral palette that flatters almost every outfit and skin tone. Whether you’re going for ethereal, romantic vibes or something more modern and editorial, the dunes are incredibly versatile. During certain times of the day—especially sunrise and golden hour—the light reflects off the sand to create a beautiful, hazy glow that wraps subjects in warmth and softness.

Color Palettes That Shine at the Sand Dunes

Because of the neutral tones of the sand and sky, specific color palettes work exceptionally well here. I recommend:

• Pastel tones – Soft pinks, baby blues, lavender, or peach create a whimsical, romantic look.
  
  

• Earthy tones – Think rust, olive, beige, and cream. These colors blend naturally with the surroundings and give a warm, grounded feel.
  
  
• Monochrome whites or black – For a bold contrast that emphasizes texture and movement.
  
  

These tones not only complement the landscape but also help subjects stand out in a clean, editorial way that’s hard to achieve in more wooded or cluttered locations.

Creative Compositions at the Dunes

One of the most exciting aspects of shooting at the St. Anthony Sand Dunes is the opportunity for creative compositions. The natural ridges and slopes of the dunes create leading lines that draw the eye directly to the subject—adding depth and a unique storytelling element to every photo. Whether you're walking along a dune ridge or capturing wind-swept footprints trailing into the distance, the location naturally lends itself to artistic, magazine-worthy imagery.

Pro Tips for Your Dunes Session:

• Avoid midday if possible—early morning or late evening offers the best light and most comfortable temperatures.
  
  
• Prepare for some wind! It adds natural movement to hair and clothing, but be ready with a brush or hairspray.
  
  
• Barefoot looks beautiful here—ditch the shoes and embrace the textures.
  
  
• Bring water and be ready to walk a bit. The best spots are often tucked just out of sight from the main parking areas.
  
  

Photographing in Eastern Idaho

The St. Anthony Sand Dunes are just one of the many incredible backdrops available for Rexburg photography. From the tree-lined trails of Eagle Park to the open skies of the dunes, Eastern Idaho offers a rich variety of natural settings to fit every vision. If you’re looking for a Rexburg photographer who knows how to use these landscapes to their fullest, I’d love to connect and help plan a session that feels completely you.

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