Top 5 Outdoor Photography Locations for Beautiful Images

Whether you're planning a branding session, family portraits, or just want updated photos that feel fresh and authentic, choosing the right outdoor location can make all the difference. Natural light, thoughtful backdrops, and room to move freely all help create photos that feel relaxed, personal, and timeless.

Here are my top five favourite outdoor photography locations to consider for your next shoot:

1. Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens are ideal for sessions year-round. With well-kept paths, lush greenery, and seasonal blooms, they offer a clean and beautiful backdrop without distraction. These spaces are perfect for engagement photos, motherhood portraits, or even personal branding sessions where a touch of nature adds warmth and texture.

Bonus: Gardens often have shaded areas that help soften light and reduce harsh shadows—great for portrait work.

2. Urban Parks with Natural Features

Parks that offer a mix of open fields, tall grasses, trees, and walking paths are great for families or couples who want a casual, nature-inspired feel. They're also ideal for kids to run and play while being photographed candidly.

Look for parks with water features (like a pond or stream) or golden-hour lighting to elevate the feel of your images. This kind of natural-light photography is perfect for capturing those in-between moments that feel real.

3. Historic Neighborhoods or Heritage Sites

A mix of charm and character, older neighbourhoods or heritage properties offer textured walls, vintage doors, cobblestone streets, and plenty of visual interest. These locations work especially well for brand photography and professional headshots where you want something more unique than a plain studio background.

Just be sure to check whether a permit is needed!

4. Waterfronts and Beaches

Nothing says timeless and peaceful quite like a beach or waterfront. Whether it’s a rocky shoreline, a lake dock, or a quiet stretch of sand, the openness and soft lighting near water creates a stunning backdrop for everything from maternity sessions to family portraits.

I recommend scheduling your shoot early in the morning or near sunset to avoid harsh sun and crowds.

5. Your Own Backyard or Favourite Spot

Sometimes the best location is the one that already holds meaning for you. A backyard garden, a favourite trail, or a quiet street where you walk every evening can make for a personal and authentic session that truly reflects your life.

As a photographer, I love working in places that feel like home to you—it often leads to the most relaxed and natural photos.

Location is just one part of a great session, but it’s an important one. The right setting helps tell your story, highlight your personality, and bring a sense of ease to your time in front of the camera. If you're not sure where to go, I’m always happy to help choose a spot that fits the mood

and message you want your photos to convey.

Interested in planning an outdoor session? Contact me today to chat about location ideas and availability—I’d love to hear what matters to you and help bring it to life through photography.