You’ve gotten down on one knee, asked her to marry you, and she said YES! Congratulations, you’re engaged! Now if you weren’t able to document the beautiful moment, engagement photo shoots are there to relive it. Gone are the days of engagement photography sessions inside the confines of a studio; instead, location-based shoots are the best way to feature that beautiful moment your bride-to-be finally said yes.
If you’re in Vancouver and are in the search for the perfect location, look no further. Vancouver offers a variety of locations from breathtaking botanical views to scenic urban backdrops. Here are our top 5 locations for your engagement photos in Vancouver.
Lighthouse Park, North Vancouver
We’re hoping that this location might shed some light on the topic…. (pun, totally intended). If you’re a fan of old growth trees and nature walks, this is the perfect engagement photo shoot location for you. What you’ll get: several shots of you and your partner against a sea of green and (possibly) sore legs from navigating the trails to and from the lighthouse.
If you both love nature and a forest-y setting, Lighthouse Park is the perfect location for you.It does get busy during weekends, but people tend to leave the Park closer to sunset, which is perfect because that’s the best time to shoot here!
Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver
People dream of a white Christmas…why not a snowy white engagement photo shoot? Grouse Mountain is beautiful both in the summer and winter, so if you’re looking at having a snowy backdrop, then this is the place for you. If you and your partner don’t mind a bit of a hike, the Grouse Mountain Light Walk through the forest is a magical and whimsical experience; they even have festive music playing throughout the winter months!
Similar to Lighthouse Park, this place does get packed during the weekends during the winter season. The beauty of your session relies on the intimacy of the location, as well as the amount of privacy you can get, so make sure to visit during the weekday to maximize your time together, alone.
Grouse Mountain (In the summer)
In the summer months, Grouse Mountain is relatively quiet with the exception of the ever-so-popular Grouse Grind. We often find the snowless slopes completely void of people, which makes it the perfect spot for Surprise Proposal (wink wink, nudge nudge). After you engagement photo shoot at this gorgeous location, we suggest you treat yourselves to a fine dining experience with a view at The Observatory Restaurant.
Stanley Park, Vancouver
We’re all about natural lighting, and Stanley Park in Downtown Vancouver is a pristine location to get these fairytale-like shots. Stanley Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America at 405 hectares (… that’s a funny word… hehe)
The best time of the day for your engagement photo shoot is either at sunrise or when the sun’s just about to set. You don’t even need to wear something fancy, because the location already speaks for itself. If you’re into simplicity that’s very raw and real, we’d highly recommend this location for all it’s worth. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
PRO TIP: Stanley Park has many washrooms scattered throughout the park. Bring an extra outfit to change into for a different look and feel to your Engagement Shoot.
Cleveland Dam, North Vancouver
One of the prime spots in Vancouver for photo ops is none other than Cleveland Dam. Also a popular wedding location, the dam is situated inside the Capilano River Regional Park, boasting of natural habitat, rustic views, and a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Cleveland Dam isn’t too far from the city, so it won’t take too long for you to get here either.
You have the options to hike through the forest or drive down to the hatchery area. Because this is such a popular tourist spot, it can get busy so make sure you have the patience to take photos until there aren’t too many people walking around.
Whytecliff Park, West Vancouver
Two words: stunning backdrop. A popular engagement photo shoot location is of course, near the ocean, and Whytecliff Park offers just that. We love the pebble beach, mountain views, and the fact that you can look like you’re on your own little island for a few hours. Because it’s such a beautiful location, Whytecliff Park is a busy place all the time and the best time to beat the crowd is to have your shoot during sunrise or sunset. Keep an eye on the tide charts because this will determine if you will be able to hop across the rocks onto the islet.
PRO TIP: Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes to wear while navigating the cliffs. A long dress can be worn to cover your runners or you can bring a pair of heels to change into. We’re happy to help you carry the extra weight.
Top 5 Locations for your Engagement Photos in Vancouver
Whether you’re looking for beach views, mountain backdrops, or the natural beauty of forests, Vancouver has everything you’re looking for. Pick a scenery that speaks to you as a couple, and what brings the most significance to your engagement story. All of these locations provide their own special backdrop, but only you as a couple can determine what this means to you, beyond their aesthetic beauty.
That concludes our Top 5 Locations for engagement photos in Vancouver. We hope you liked our list and suggestions on how to make the most out of your engagement shoot. If you are interested in booking a session with us, get in touch and contact us for more info!
Amazing locations and incredible photos! I’d consider myself lucky to shoot a wedding in any of these places.
This makes me wanna jump on a plane and get couple photos in Vancouver ASAP, thank you for all the beautiful images and location ideas!
Vancouver is just do dreamy, the big city lights and energy but also surrounding with such a beautiful nature. Great informative guide. Thank you!
This is such a great list and stunning photos! I really appreciate the different environments and seasons represented, I feel like there are so many possibilities! I absolutely love the pro tips, great info to bring appropriate shoes in addition to your fancy ones! I will have to hit you up for photos if I am ever in the area again! Also I agree hectares is a really funny word.
So many amazing spots!! Mountains, forests, and beaches… Vancouver really has it all!
Ok I’m definitely ready to pack my bag and fly all the way to Vancouver to have my engagement pics taken by you! <3
Once it’s safe to travel again!!! You’ll love it here!!!
These locations are gorgeous! I will definitely keep these in mind.
WOW, these locations are gorgeous! Love the pro tips for each location as well. Great information and beautiful photos!