Metro Vancouver's Best Portrait Photoshoot Locations

One of the best parts about being a photographer in Vancouver is having access to a variety of stunning locations available right at our doorstep. Whether you're looking for a moody, cinematic session on the coast or a bright, candid shoot in the heart of the city, Metro Vancouver has tons of options. When planning a photoshoot, choosing the right location is one of most important steps. To help you get inspired, I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite photo spots across Metro Vancouver.

Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver

If you're after dramatic, moody, and fully West Coast vibes, Lighthouse Park is the spot for you. It features a rocky shoreline with soft waves, a beautiful forested area, and of course the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse. This location is perfect if you want location variety in your photos— because it offers a multitude of options just in one location.

Campbell Valley Regional Park, Langley

Campbell Valley Park offers a rustic, countryside charm that feels a world away from the city. Think sprawling open fields, wooden fences, old farm buildings (like the Annand/Rowlatt Farmstead), small ponds, as well as forest trails. This location is fantastic for family sessions where kids can run freely, or for couples wanting pictures running through fields. The open field areas also make it perfect for golden hour shoots!

Deer Lake Park, Burnaby

Located in the heart of Burnaby, Deer Lake Park is a beautiful park that’s both accessible and versatile! There are both forest and lakeside trails, docks, and beautiful gardens near the Shadbolt Centre. It’s a great location that works well for everything from individual portraits to family photos. The variety of scenery means we can capture a lot of different looks without having to travel far.

Gastown, Vancouver

Gastown is a classic. The cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and the famous Steam Clock create a timeless and romantic atmosphere. It’s perfect for a sophisticated urban engagement session or stylish individual portraits. The architecture and cobblestone trails result in moody, textured shots— and the warm glow of the streetlights give a cinematic and vibrant feel which are perfect for evening sessions. The blend of old and new makes it one of the most dynamic locations in the city.

Pitt Lake, Pitt Meadows

Pitt Lake is one of the world's largest freshwater tidal lakes. It's surrounded by a beautiful mountain landscape that overlooks the water, and plenty of trails which make the location very accessible. On a calm day, the water is like glass, which creates beautiful reflections of the mountains. Pitt lake is perfect for any sessions, and during the dry season you mind find some beautiful flowers that can add a pop of colour to your photos!

Deep Cove, North Vancouver

Deep Cove is a beautiful seaside village where you can get both shots walking through the village, along the inlet, or in the forest trails! This location is especially beautiful in the summer, but it can get busy so early morning or evening sessions work best. If you're feeling more adventurous—the hike up to Quarry Rock provides one of the most iconic views of the Indian Arm.

Colony Farm Regional Park, Coquitlam

With its wide-open fields, tranquil marsh, and distant mountain views, Colony Farm is perfect for shoots at any time of day. In the early morning there is beautiful fog that hovers over the water—this partnered with a colourful sunrise can create gorgeous photos. The open area also offers beautiful scenery for golden hour photoshoots. It's a favourite spot for any portrait photographer looking for an open, natural setting that’s easily accessible.

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With so many breathtaking spots, the hardest part is choosing just one! The perfect location is one that you love, and best matches the vision you have for your photoshoot. If you're dreaming up your own session and need help finding the ideal backdrop, I'd love to connect. Let's chat and start planning your beautiful Vancouver photoshoot!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day for a photoshoot in Vancouver?

For a soft, dreamy, and flattering light, nothing beats 'golden hour'—the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The low angle of the sun creates a warm glow and beautiful long shadows. Of course, overcast days are also fantastic, as the clouds act like a giant softbox, which provide gentle light that's perfect for portraits.

Do I need a permit to take photos in these parks?

For a small, personal session like a couples or family shoot, you generally do not need a permit in most Metro Vancouver and municipal parks. However, rules can vary, and larger productions or commercial work almost always require one. As your portrait photographer, I can help navigate any necessary permissions to ensure our session is smooth and stress-free.

How do we choose the right location for our photos?

Think about the feeling you want your photos to have. Do you prefer the energy of the city or the tranquility of nature? We can always chat about the vision you have for your photos, your style, and what environments make you feel most like yourself. This collaboration is key to finding a spot that’s not just beautiful, but meaningful to you!