Whether you’re researching for a wedding, engagement, or family photoshoot, choosing a location is soooo incredibly important. A location will contribute to the mood of your photos, and is and should be a reflection of you and your vibe! In Toronto, we are so lucky to have access to so many areas that offer a variety of different styles.
We have beautiful beaches (I use that term lightly but it’s still sand & water ok), a gorgeous downtown area (with many neighbourhoods!), and lots of stunning architecture. So many eclectic and cool spots to choose from!
I typically will encourage my clients to choose a location that’s meaningful to them – maybe it’s your favourite neighbourhood in the city, where you and your partner met, a park you like to walk your dog in every day, and so on and so forth! If you’re feeling stuck and maybe none of those locations are sparking an interest for you, then this is a great list for you to refer to! Given that so many of my clients are based in Toronto, I’ve photographed all over the city, and this has helped narrow down, for me, my absolute favourite locations!
As a wedding and family photographer based in Toronto, outdoor photography locations are only really utilized probably… 5 months of the year (you know, a little thing called WINTER). But don’t get it twisted, it might only be 5 months, but we use the HELL out of these 5 months. They may be the busiest 5 months of the year in a professional photographer’s life, but who’s complaining? CERTAINLY NOT ME.
You’ll love this spot if: You’re into nature, but you’re kind of edgy. You love a more industrial feel and are down for an adventure! Photographing here means walking a lot, so come prepared!
Indoor option: No, but we can use the covered Pavilion in case of rain.
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Close to sunset to avoid harsh shadows… and in the FALL season!
You’ll love this spot if… having the Toronto skyline in your photographs is a must-have! Polson Pier is a fairly quiet area, so we are away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown core, but we get a GORGEOUS view of the city here.
Indoor option: No
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunset! Look at that LIGHT. If we’re lucky enough the water will also give us some wind, and let me tell you… wind + golden hour = a lethal photography combination.
You’ll love this spot if… you really want the essence of Toronto captured. The hustle and bustle, the store-fronts, the true city vibe. Be mindful of people (maybe) being in your photos, but I’ll always do my best to either avoid OR make it look cool!
Indoor option: Yes! Lots of bars & restaurants we can hop into for a few photos. We will likely have to inquire in advance if this is possible.
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunset
You’ll love this spot if… you love clean, architectural lines, lots of texture, and pops of green! The Aga Khan has a gorgeous lavender field during the summer months, and two beautiful buildings as backdrops. Note that the permit does not give us access to the Ismaeli Centre OR the inside of the museum (unless you’re getting married there).
Indoor option: Yes
Permit required: Yes ($$)
Best time to shoot: Sunset
You’ll love this spot if… you gravitate toward romantic, timeless images. Knox College features strong and prominent architecture – a very Hogwarts vibe for you Harry Potter fans.
Indoor option: Yes
Permit required: Yes ($$$)
Best time to shoot: Morning to mid-afternoon to get some good interior light.
You’ll love this spot if… you love the downtown Toronto vibe, but you want your photos to be a little quieter. Riverdale is a gorgeous quaint neighbourhood with a ton of personality, lovely bars and coffee shops we can jump into, and it’s home to the beautiful Broadview Hotel!
Indoor option: No
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunset
You’ll love this spot if… you’re more carefree, don’t mind having sand in your feet, and don’t mind getting a little wet! This is a great spot for beach lovers, and also offers gorgeous hikes and views your Toronto photographer (me) can take advantage of.
Indoor option: No
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunrise
You’ll love this spot if… you love historical architecture and gravitate towards romantic photos. A gorgeous mix of nature & iconic Toronto buildings! Also steps away from Queen and University, where we can get some great photos at the intersection.
Indoor option: No (unless you’re getting married there)
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Afternoon
You’ll love this spot if… you want some classic Toronto photos: the buildings, the vibe, the people, the cars. This is a busy area, but a great spot with lots of great little pockets. We’re also very close to Cherry Beach… TWO IN ONE BABY!
Indoor option: No
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunset / dawn
You’ll love this spot if… you want that beach vibe, baby! Beautiful boardwalk, and a great sandy beach. Tends to get busy on warmer days but is large enough for us to find quiet areas. Come prepared with some picnic food (pizza on the beach always), and a swimsuit!
Indoor option: No
Permit required: No
Best time to shoot: Sunrise or sunset
What did you think of these 10 outdoor photography locations in Toronto? These are only 10 of – MANY – amazing spots in the city. Not to mention this doesn’t even cover the GTA! So many wonderful spots in the neighbouring cities. Refer to this list if you’re on the hunt for a great downtown Toronto photography location!
Are you looking for a photographer to capture your just-engaged bliss, family love, or beautiful portraits? Let’s chat about what you have in mind! Can’t wait to talk to you.
With love,
Yasmin
for the wildly in love –
for the authentic souls –
for the small gestures –
for the big moments –
for love, with love.