Choosing the right location for your family photos can completely shape the feel of your session. Some families want ocean views and iconic Vancouver scenery, while others are drawn to quiet trails, rustic landscapes, or wide open fields where their kids can run freely.
After photographing families throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, I’ve learned that there’s no single “perfect” location. The best location is the one that resonates with your family.
When helping families choose a location, I usually ask:
- What kind of aesthetic are you drawn to?
- Is accessibility important?
- Do you want somewhere quiet or more iconic?
- Will toddlers or grandparents be joining?
- Are you hoping for mountains, beach, forest, or something more urban?
These details matter far more than choosing the trendiest spot on Instagram.
Here are some of my favourite family photo locations in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, along with what makes each one unique.
Coal Harbour
Coal Harbour is one of those locations that surprises people.
It has a more urban feel with downtown Vancouver buildings, but you also get beautiful gardens at Harbour Green Park along with ocean and mountain views from the Vancouver Convention Centre area. This is a favourite of my clients who are visiting from out of the country.
There’s so much variety within walking distance, which makes sessions here feel dynamic and unique.
That said, this location isn’t my top recommendation for families with accessibility concerns because there can be more walking involved (and lots of stairs).
One of my favourite reasons for photographing families here is the number of activities you can do before and after your session. Sight-seeing, great restaurants (Tap and Barrel is one of my faves – ask me about my favourite meal) and of course the shopping is great downtown.
Stanley Park + Lost Lagoon
Stanley Park is classic Vancouver.
You get a little bit of everything here. Ocean, beaches, mountains, gardens, and forested trails which makes it incredibly versatile for family sessions. Lost Lagoon is also just a short walk from the Rose Gardens at Stanley Park.
I especially love Stanley Park for families with toddlers because there’s space to move, explore, and play naturally during the session. It allows kids to stay engaged rather than feeling confined to one small area.
Another reason families love this location is that it truly captures the “Vancouver” feel, which is especially meaningful for families visiting from out of town.
Jericho Beach
Jericho Beach offers some of my favourite soft beach scenery in Vancouver. The sandy shoreline combined with ocean and mountain views creates a calm, relaxed atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
This location is also one of the more accessible options, making it a great choice for sessions that include grandparents or family members who may not want a lot of walking.
Alouette Lake at Golden Ears Park
This location has about everything you can hope for with family photos. Mountains, water, beach AND it’s easily accessible.
Because it’s so accessible, it’s a great choice for sessions that include grandparents or family members who may not want a lot of walking.
Something to keep in mind for this location is that a Day Use Pass may be required to enter the park. It all depends on the time of year.
Alouette Lake works beautifully for:
- playful family sessions,
- sunset sessions,
- and families wanting a relaxed West Coast feel.
Douglas Taylor Park (Abbotsford)
For families wanting something quieter and more rustic, Douglas Taylor Park is one of my favourite Fraser Valley locations.
The large trees and trails create a peaceful setting, and it’s often much less crowded than Vancouver locations. It’s also one of the easier locations for accessibility and parking, which can make a huge difference for families with young children or grandparents joining.
If your family feels more drawn to nature and slower-paced environments, this location photographs beautifully year-round.
Willband Creek Park (Abbotsford)
Willband Creek Park is beautiful for families who love open natural spaces.
The wide trails and long meadow grass create a soft, organic look that works especially well for candid family sessions. This location also tends to be quieter than many Vancouver spots, which can help families feel more relaxed during their session.
If avoiding crowds is important to you, Fraser Valley locations like Willband Creek are often a better fit than downtown Vancouver locations.
Pitt Meadows
The mountain views at Pitt Meadows are stunning, especially during sunset sessions.
One important thing I always consider when scheduling sessions here is how early the mountains block the sun. Even if golden hour technically begins later, the light disappears sooner behind the mountains.
For example, if golden hour is from 8–9pm, I would usually recommend starting closer to 6:30pm at Pitt Meadows to make the most of the soft light.
This is one of those details families often don’t think about, but lighting can completely change the outcome and feel of your photos.
A Few Things Families Often Don’t Consider
One of the biggest misconceptions about choosing a location is assuming that a beautiful place automatically means a stress-free experience.
For example:
- If you don’t want crowds or people in the background of your photos, downtown Vancouver locations may not be the best fit.
- If your session includes rocky trails, practical footwear matters.
- If you have toddlers, choosing a location with room to move freely can make a huge difference.
I also always recommend choosing outfits after choosing your location. The environment should inspire the wardrobe, not the other way around.
No matter the location, I generally suggest avoiding overly bright colours so the focus stays on connection, emotion, and the scenery around you.
You can read more outfit tips here:
“What to Wear for Family Photos”
My Philosophy on Choosing the Perfect Family Photo Location
After photographing families throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, I truly believe the best location is the one that resonates with your family.
Some families feel most at home by the ocean. Others love quiet forests, mountain views, or open fields where their children can explore freely.
If you’re looking for relaxed, connection-focused family photography in Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, I’d love to help you choose a location that feels meaningful for your family.
