Vancouver Photoshoot Locations (with Tips from a Local)
Let me start with a confession, I didn’t plan to fall in love with Vancouver when I drove into the city in 2017. I was just there to get my visa stamped, work remotely and explore a bit on the side, but this city? Vancouver photoshoot locations make it basically one giant, moody photoshoot waiting to happen. (Not to mention the place where I found my one true love!)
Over our few years living here, we found ourselves snapping photos constantly. Some planned (with photographers, even), some impromptu, and all kinds of awkward and adorable. Here are our favorite photoshoot spots in Vancouver (and a few gems just outside), with tips we wish someone had told us before we went.
Some of these places also qualify as the best viewpoints in Vancouver, so definitely check out our post on that!
Vancouver Photoshoot Locations
1. Coal Harbour at Sunset
There’s something cinematic about Coal Harbour. The mix of yachts, the mirror-like water, and the backdrop of the North Shore mountains makes it a photographer’s dream. We caught one evening where the clouds were glowing orange-pink, and even our iPhone shots looked like a filter was slapped on.
Vibe: Sophisticated, reflective, urban-meets-nature
Best Time: Golden hour or blue hour (around sunset or just after)
Where to Eat Nearby: Cardero’s if you want a proper sit-down meal, or grab coffee and pastries from Breka Bakery a short walk way.
Parking: There’s a paid lot at the Westin Bayshore or metered street parking along the seawall near the Rowing Club.
Pro Tip: Walk all the way to the floatplane terminal for fewer crowds and better angles.
2. Stanley Park Seawall (with Bikes!)
Okay, we might be biased because we rode tandem here once and laughed the entire time. But seriously, the Stanley Park seawall gives you endless backdrops. Forest trails, ocean views, totem poles, and even the occasional curious raccoon if you’re lucky. I have always loved this place and wanted to have a photoshoot here!
Vibe: Playful, active, couple-goals content
Best Time: Early morning on weekdays or late afternoon before sunset
Where to Eat Nearby: The Teahouse in Stanley Park is great for brunch, and Tavola in the West End is just a short ride away.
Parking: Several lots inside Stanley Park, including one near Second Beach Pool. Download the ParkMobile or PayByPhone app to avoid ticket machines.
Photo Idea: Bike on the seawall with Lions Gate Bridge in the background, or sit by the water’s edge with boats behind you.
3. Queen Elizabeth Park
This one’s a bit more “Instagram husband” kind of shoot. The manicured gardens, those stairs near the duck pond, and the incredible view of downtown .. muah! We took some anniversary photos here that are now framed in our living room.
Vibe: Romantic, floral, dreamy garden portraits
Best Time: Spring for cherry blossoms, late summer for roses, or golden hour any time
Where to Eat Nearby: Seasons in the Park (on-site, with skyline views!) or Blenz Coffee nearby for a casual break
Parking: Paid parking on-site (around $3/hour) and plenty of spots if you arrive early
Pro Tip: The view from the north-facing lookout point is iconic. If you go mid-week mornings, you might even get it all to yourself.
4. Kitsilano Beach
Hear me out. Everyone goes to Kits on sunny days, but if you go on a moody, cloudy day, you’ll get those soft, diffused tones that make every photo look like a magazine spread. During Covid, we once sat on the logs in oversized sweaters, sipping coffee, and the photos? So candid, so Vancouver.
Vibe: Coastal and casual, soft tones on cloudy days
Best Time: Overcast mornings or sunset for soft light; avoid weekends unless you like people in the background
Where to Eat Nearby: The Naam (24-hour vegetarian institution), or Octopus Garden for incredible Japanese
Parking: Metered spots along Arbutus or in the beach lot (can fill up fast in summer)
Pro Tip: The logs on the beach are perfect for that cozy, contemplative shot.
5. Gastown (Steam Clock + Side Alleys)
Gastown is charming, but only if you time it right. We went one morning at 7:30 am before the shops opened, and had the cobblestone streets and iconic steam clock all to ourselves. Now this was after the whole homeless cleanup, so if the situation has become bad again, this wouldn’t be a recommendation. Another time we went at dusk and the warm street lights gave our photos that cozy European feel.
Vibe: Vintage, urban-chic, dramatic lighting
Best Time: Early morning (before 9 am) or just after sunset for moody streetlight shots
Where to Eat Nearby: Nelson the Seagull (super aesthetic café), Meet in Gastown
Parking: Street parking on Water St. or paid lots near Cordova & Abbott
Pro Tip: Head behind Revolver Coffee for one of the coolest hidden alleys with great texture and lighting.
6. VanDusen Botanical Garden
This one’s not free, but oh boy, it’s worth it. The textures here are just incredible. Bamboo forests, rose gardens, lily ponds. Wear a flowy dress and people will legit think you are doing a fashion shoot.
Vibe: Whimsical and botanical. Perfect for couples or fashion shots
Best Time: Fall for colorful leaves, spring for blooms; arrive right when they open (usually 10 am)
Where to Eat Nearby: Shaughnessy Restaurant is right inside the gardens.
Parking: Free on-site lot
Pro Tip: Check the event schedule. Avoid shoot days when there’s a flower festival because it gets packed.
7. Granville Island (Backside Walls & Docks)
We almost skipped this the first time because it’s so touristy, but then we discovered the back side of the public market and the colorful industrial walls. We had the best candids here. Laughing while eating donuts, juggling too many coffee cups, trying to keep our hair from flying in the wind
Vibe: Industrial + colorful + quirky = unique!
Best Time: Late afternoon weekdays or early morning if you want fewer crowds
Where to Eat Nearby: A Bread Affair for pastries, Go Fish for the freshest seafood tacos
Parking: Free but limited. Arrive before 10 am to find a good spot, or walk in from nearby street parking across the bridge.
Pro Tip: Don’t just stay near the market. Explore the back alleys and artist studios, for diverse Vancouver photography spots!
8. Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
Way less crowded than Capilano, and still gets you that dramatic bridge-in-the-forest shot. Isheeta took me here the first time we met, and since then I’ve taken every guest of ours here. We came early (like 8 am early), and had the place almost to ourselves.
Vibe: Lush, adventurous, dramatic nature shots
Best Time: Weekdays before 10 am. It gets crowded quickly.
Where to Eat Nearby: End of the Line General Store for post-hike treats and sandwiches
Parking: Free lot near the Ecology Centre (get there early)
Pro Tip: Wear earthy tones to pop against the dense green. And bring bug spray!
9. The Alley Behind Revolver Coffee
This one’s a total hidden gem. Moody lighting, exposed brick, and some of the coolest textures we found in the city.
Vibe: Editorial, textured, monochrome mood
Best Time: Overcast days or late afternoon
Where to Eat Nearby: Revolver itself for a killer flat white. Also close to Meat & Bread.
Parking: Paid lots near Victory Square or street parking
Pro Tip: This alley gives fashion-shoot vibes with almost no effort. Bring a long coat or scarf for some movement in your shots. You’ll thank us for this hidden Vancouver photoshoot location.
Bonus: Photoshoot Spots 1 hour from Vancouver
10. Whytecliff Park (West Vancouver)
Fun walk and great views make this an awesome Vancouver photoshoot location.
Vibe: Rocky shoreline meets dreamy ocean views
Best Time: Weekdays at low tide. Golden hour is magical here.
Where to Eat Nearby: Olive & Anchor in Horseshoe Bay for cozy pub food with a view
Parking: Free lot, but fills quickly. Arrive before 9 am on weekends
Pro Tip: You can walk out to the island when the tide is low. It looks like a little private world.
11. Porteau Cove
This name brings back memories of the first time I drove Sea to Sky highway. With its washed away industrial equipment, calm water of Howe Sound and the mountain backdrop, this can be a great photography spot, as well as a quick photoshoot location.
Vibe: Misty, cinematic, dramatic mountain + water vibes
Best Time: Sunrise is worth the drive. Trust me.
Where to Eat Nearby: Pack a picnic or eat in nearby Squamish or go to Zephyr Cafe
Parking: Free parking lot next to the campground
Pro Tip: On calm mornings, the water reflects the sky like a mirror. Bring a tripod and go slow shutter for extra drama.
12. Deep Cove + Quarry Rock Trail
This place was 20 minutes from our home in North Vancouver, and our favorite haunt. While we personally never did a photoshoot here, there is enough beautiful scenery and food around to make this worth your while.
Vibe: Coastal village meets forest lookout
Best Time: Morning hike to the top, then grab food in the village
Where to Eat Nearby: Honey’s Doughnuts. Legendary and 100% photoshoot snack worthy.
Parking: Small lot near Panorama Park. Go early.
Pro Tip: The dock at Deep Cove is also gorgeous, even without the hike.
13. Steveston Village (Richmond)
A friend took us here, as we had never explored Richmond before. I was surprised to find the cute stores and boardwalks, making it a perfect spot for photoshoots.
Vibe: Fishing village charm, cute storefronts, boardwalks
Best Time: Late afternoon or golden hour. Lights turn on around 6–7 pm
Where to Eat Nearby: Steveston Bakery
Parking: Lots of free street parking. Paid lot near Garry Point Park
Pro Tip: Film buffs will recognize this area from TV shows like Once Upon a Time. It’s got that storybook feel.
14. Burnaby Mountain Park (Simon Fraser University Area)
Another place that was literally 10 minutes from home when we lived in Coquitlam, I’ve been here countless times for drone photography. Also, the fall colors, high vantage point, water and skyline views, make it a great photoshoot spot.
Vibe: Open-air, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful
Best Time: Sunset. One of the best spots for it.
Where to Eat Nearby: Grab ramen in Burnaby Heights
Parking: Free lot at the top
Pro Tip: The totem poles and the view over Indian Arm create a striking frame.
15. Grouse Mountain (North Vancouver)
I think it took me a full year in Vancouver before I made it up Grouse. And I regret that wasted time! This place has such epic views and scenic locations, that it is one of the best Vancouver photoshoot locations.
Vibe: Alpine adventure meets city views. Think cozy mountain vibes with a touch of drama
Best Time: Late afternoon into sunset if you’re taking the Skyride up. Also magical during winter when everything’s snow-dusted
Where to Eat Nearby: Grab a bite at Altitudes Bistro at the top, It is pricey (went for my birthday), but you’re paying for the view too. Otherwise, eat down in Edgemont Village (we loved Bufala for wood-fired pizza).
Parking: Paid parking lot at the base (flat rate, around $10). Fills up on weekends so go early if you’re driving
Pro Tip: If you’re not doing the Grouse Grind (which, fair, we didn’t either until year 3 in Vancouver 😂), just take the Skyride. The panoramic windows are a great spot for a candid too. And if it’s winter? Bring something red or white for contrast. Snow + mountains + cozy outfit = Insta goals.
16. Sea to Sky Gondola (Squamish)
I was sold when I saw people’s wedding photoshoots here (just google for some photos). This is hands down one of the best Vancouver photoshoot locations. Since then I’ve always wanted to have a photoshoot here, but still waiting for the right opportunity.
Vibe: Straight-up epic. Mountains, fjords, forests, all in one sweeping view.
Best Time: Morning on weekdays or sunset on a clear day
Where to Eat Nearby: The Summit Lodge has a patio with killer views and decent food, but we also recommend stopping by Zephyr Café in Squamish on your way in or out.
Parking: Free lot at the base, but combine it with your ticket purchase online to skip lines
Pro Tip: Once you’re up top, walk the suspension bridge for that dramatic “on top of the world” shot. There are hiking trails and quiet viewpoints nearby which are way less crowded than Capilano.
If you think covering so many places is difficult in one trip, why don’t you try working remotely while traveling? This is the perfect city for that!
Departing Words
You don’t need fancy gear or professional poses, just a curious eye and some good lighting. Vancouver is ridiculously photogenic, and with a bit of planning, you can come back with the kind of shots that make people go “Where IS that!?”
If you’re heading to any of these, tag us @travelicious_couple on instagram so we can live vicariously through your photo ops. And hey, if you know a Vancouver photoshoot location that we missed, shoot us a message. We’re always on the hunt for the next stunning backdrop!
