Best (& Most Challenging) Engagement Photo Locations...
When my clients ask me for recommendations for the best places to shoot engagement photos on Vancouver Island, they’re usually after stunning outdoor scenery that shows off the beauty of nature. However, not every breathtaking view works well for photography. Some popular spots come with challenges like tricky lighting or crowds, making it harder to get the kind of intimate, romantic photos you’re envisioning.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best and most challenging locations for your engagement session (or any photo session, really!). Whether you’re a local or visiting, this guide can help you choose a place that not only looks great but also helps you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.
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Best Engagement Locations for Outdoorsy Couples
- Forests and Natural Settings
Imagine being surrounded by towering trees, soft moss underfoot, and dappled light filtering through the branches. Forests provide the perfect environment for intimate, magical photos. Locations like Thetis Lake and Francis King Park offer secluded, serene trails where we can capture the beauty of both nature and your connection without the distractions of crowds. - Waterfront and Shorelines
Waterfront views are a popular choice, but not all are created equal when it comes to lighting! Thetis Lake offers some of the best scenic lake views, and for ocean lovers, early morning or sunset at a quieter spot like View Royal Park provides a much better option than busier locations like Esquimalt Lagoon. With the right time of day and an open view of the horizon, waterfront locations can truly enhance your engagement session. - Gardens and Parks
For couples who love being outdoors but want a more manicured, accessible environment, gardens and parks are perfect. Hatley Castle’s grounds and Butchart Gardens offer diverse backdrops with a blend of nature and landscaped beauty. There’s also less risk of harsh lighting, as these spots often have shaded areas, ideal for capturing softer, more flattering images. - “Best” Locations in a Nutshell
Thetis Lake, View Royal Park, Francis King Park, Hatley Castle, Butchart Gardens, Beacon Hill Park (spring, fall)
More Challenging Locations for Photoshoots
While these locations are stunning to visit, they can be tricky for a photoshoot. Here are a few reasons why:
- Crowded Tourist Spots
Locations like Beacon Hill Park and the Parliament Buildings are incredibly popular. While they might seem like a fun idea, they tend to be packed with visitors. Not only will it be difficult to get clear shots without people in the background, but the bright sun reflecting off green lawns can also cause harsh shadows and a green undertone on skin color, which is very unflattering! - Harshly Lit Open Spaces
Some wide-open spaces, particularly waterfront areas like the Inner Harbour, Esquimalt Lagoon, or Saxe Point Park, present lighting challenges. A water view behind a couple might sound romantic, but if the sun is high and there’s no shade, the light reflecting off the water can be too bright, casting shadows or harsh light on your faces and leaving the view you wanted to see all washed out in the photos. These spots tend to work better at sunrise, sunset, or on overcast days. - Limited Scenic Backdrops
Busy urban areas like the Inner Harbour or Fisherman’s Wharf offer constantly moving backgrounds with people and vehicles, making it hard to find a clean, consistent frame for your photos. Even though these locations are full of energy and iconic views, they often lack the calm, serene backdrop that most couples want for their engagement photos. - “More Challenging” Locations in a Nutshell
Parliament Buildings (front), Inner Harbour, Fisherman’s Wharf, Esquimalt Lagoon, Saxe Pointe Park, Beacon Hill Park (summer)
Choosing the Best Spot for Your Session
To make your engagement session as beautiful as possible, it’s all about finding the right balance of nature, light, and intimacy. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and connected in your chosen environment, whether that’s deep in the forest, along a peaceful shoreline, or in a park bursting with autumn colors.
If you’re interested in seeing specific photos from my favorite locations or would like more tips on what will work best for your shoot, feel free to request my free guide, “Top 5 Spots for Engagement Photos in Victoria (for Outdoorsy Couples).” It’s full of detailed tips and images to help you pick the perfect place for your session.
And, of course, if you have any questions or need help planning, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Did you just get engaged? Congratulations! If you have any questions for me about planning your wedding to be the most photogenic possible or want to get engagement photos, please feel free to reach out!
