Top 5 Outdoor Family Photo Locations in Vancouver BC

Family photography blog
Jul 12
2 min read

Trying to pick the perfect location for your outdoor family photos in Vancouver?

You’re in luck — our city is *packed* with incredible spots for photo sessions that feel natural, relaxed, and totally you.

As a full-time Vancouver family photographer with 15+ years of experience, I’ve photographed in almost every park, beach, and trail this city has to offer.

But these 5 locations? They’re the ones I come back to again and again — because they deliver every single time.

1. Iona Beach (Richmond)

Wide open skies, tall golden grass, and a peaceful beach that rarely feels crowded? Iona is a dream — especially at golden hour.

If you want a chill, west-coast-meets-desert vibe (without going full sand dunes), this spot is magic for movement, cuddles, and wide-angle shots with breathing room.

Family playing around a driftwood fort at Iona Beach in Richmond – candid outdoor photo session by My City Photos.

2. Stanley Park (Vancouver)

You cannot go wrong with this classic. Stanley Park has everything: forest trails, ocean views, stone walls, bridges, and even a duck pond.

It’s great for families who want variety and don’t mind a little walking between spots. I’ll help you avoid the tourist zones and find the best hidden gems.

Playful family running barefoot along the beach at Stanley Park in Vancouver – fun, candid moment captured by My City Photos.

3. Queen Elizabeth Park (Vancouver)

If you want flowers, manicured gardens, city views, and clean lines — this is your place. QE is super versatile and works great for both playful and polished sessions.

I shoot here often because it has great light, year-round interest, and easy access from all over Vancouver. One of my go-to spots for Fall photos!

Two sisters holding hands and laughing in the golden fall light at Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver – captured during a family photo session by My City Photos.

4. Jericho Beach (Kitsilano)

Want beachy without the chaos of Kits Beach or English Bay? Jericho is where it’s at.

It has sandy areas, grassy fields, driftwood, mountain views, and even a few forest nooks. This is a sunset lover’s dream and perfect for relaxed, barefoot family photos.

Siblings running barefoot along the shoreline at Jericho Beach in Vancouver with city skyline in the background – playful family photo by My City Photos.

5. Deer Lake Park (Burnaby)

This one’s a hidden gem for families on the east side. It’s got lake views, wooden docks, boardwalks, tall trees, and gorgeous seasonal changes (especially fall!).

It’s peaceful, photogenic, and never too crowded. Perfect for families with young kids who want nature without the hike.

Extended family smiling and sitting together on wooden steps at Deer Lake Park in Burnaby – multi-generational photo session by My City Photos.

I Know SO Many More Places

These are some of my go-to favorites, but honestly, Vancouver is full of photo-worthy corners, and I know *so, so many more* amazing spots — urban, industrial, forested, private, quirky, you name it.

If you’re craving something a little more unique (or want to stay close to home), I’m happy to brainstorm custom ideas for your session.

Final Thoughts

Location sets the tone for your photos — but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. When you book a session with me, we’ll talk about your family’s vibe, your style, and what kind of backdrop fits best. I’ve got options on options.

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Thanks for reading, and never hesitate to reach out!