Top 10 Engagement and Wedding Photography Locations in Vancouver
One of the questions couples often ask their photographers is where to get their engagement photos. Most couples love to make use of the beautiful nature that we have here in Vancouver. This list is a compilation of some of my all-time favourite outdoors photography spots in Vancouver. For the couples who love the outdoors and enjoy a good sunset; for the couples who appreciate the changing colours of the leaves, the lush shades of green in the forests, the blossoming flowers, the magic of nature… this guide is for you.
1. Sea to Sky
Sea to Sky is around an hour’s drive from Vancouver, after which a gondola ride is required to get to the mountain top. Beautiful in both winter and summer, the mountain view overlooking Squamish is nothing short of serene. The bridge shot is often difficult to get as other visitors are often in the way, but with a bit of patience, it does clear up. If possible, avoid scheduling your engagement session or wedding there during weekends or public holidays.
2. Garry Point Park
Right next to Steveston, Garry Point Park is a popular park for families during the summer. At times the plants and grass fields dry up, leaving dried patches on the ground--it would be ideal to pay this park a visit before your session. In general, spring and summer would be a good time to shoot there.
3. Belcarra Regional Park
Belcarra Regional Park is usually crowded in the summer, but it is most beautiful during the winter when the water is still. The mirror-like reflection is simply out of this world.
4. Porteau Cove
Close to Sea to Sky, Porteau Cove is a great choice as a second location (in combination with Sea to Sky) for engagement photos. It's best to visit during the evening, when the light is less harsh and the water calms.
5. Chilliwack Tulip Festival
Tulips of the Valley Festival opening dates vary every year depending on when the tulips bloom, but in general the best time to visit would be between April to early May. Check their website or follow their social media for updates if you are planning to get your engagement photos there. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowd!
6. Grouse Mountain
For the couples who don't mind braving the cold, Grouse Mountain is the perfect location for winter engagement sessions. A short gondola ride will bring you to this magical light tunnel.
7. English Bay & Stanley Park
In the heart of downtown Vancouver, English Bay is a popular location for engagement and wedding photos in combination with Stanley Park.
8. Terra Nova Rural Nature Park
9. Whytecliff Park
Located in West Vancouver, Whytecliff Park is a very popular spot for engagement photos. Parking is right inside the park, little walking is required.
10. Lighthouse Park
Similar (and close) to Whytecliff Park, Lighthouse Park has an additional forest area. Although it is a longer walk to the ocean than Whytecliff Park (around 15-20 mins), the beautiful sunset view by the ocean makes it all the more worthwhile. Just remember to bring a comfortable pair of shoes if you plan on getting your engagement photos done there. When the sun is about to set, the light also fills up the forest like magic.
