My top choices with pros and cons for each. I've taken into account accessibiltiy, safety and photographability (not a word).
As a Toronto Family Photographer, I know some spectacular spot to take family photos! And actually, Toronto has a lot of places where magic can happen. But where to go?
Here is are locations that are tried and tested by me to help you decide!
High Park, Toronto - family friendly photo location
Pros:
A lot of spots to choose from. Talk to your photographer about the best spots.
Beautiful in Spring, Summer and especially Fall. Winter has its charms too, if you're brave!
Can have a session at any time of day and will get great results.
Free to enter.
Cons:
No parking within the park on weekends. This is the most popular time to have a session so be prepared to park on the street and walk into the park.
Park gets extremely busy. If you want cherry blossom photos in Spring, early morning session may be the best time to go. The rest of the day is packed with people.
Fall = burs. Once I've finished a session, I'm covered in the stuff. And so are my clients. Wooly clothes get hit hardest so be mindful of that when deciding what to wear.
Graffiti Alley, Toronto - downtown photos for families
Pros:
It's a very engaging space. The artwork on the walls make for really dramatic backgrounds to your photos.
Easy to get to. Just off Queen Street W.
Going at sunset means the sun isn't directly hitting the lanes, giving it a lovely glow.
It's funky. If you're looking for something a little more edgy, this is the place.
Cons:
It's another popular spot in Toronto. Weekdays are quieter.
Can be quite grimy. Your photographer will have to edit out trash and such.
Cars pass through the lanes occasionally. Be on the lookout.
You may have people in your photos in the background. Or will have to wait for a spot to open up for you to get your shots.
Scarborough Bluffs, Scarborough - a scenic spot for family photography
Pros:
Well, of course, the stunning cliff face.
The water at the beach is sometimes a gorgeous aquamarine colour. It's like you're at a beach in the tropics.
The surrounding park is also gorgeous. Lots of spots to take photos.
You can have a mix of beach, tree, open grass or open lake shots.
Sunset period and fall season are great times to go.
Cons:
Again, another very popular destination. In summer, you can't even get parking past 11am. Let alone a photo session without sunbathers behind you.
Restricted areas. You cannot go up to the top of the cliffs. Or in front of them. The Cliffs are made of sand, not rock, so can collapse at any time. Also getting to the beach may be blocked, closed or inaccessible due to muddy paths. I know a way to it but it involves passing through water.
The Don Valley, Toronto - lots of quiet spots for a family photo session
Pros:
A big area with lots of great spots for photos. It's not as busy so you can feel more relaxed and private.
Various access points to the park.
All seasons offer something unique and beautiful.
These nature spots are great for the kids to explore and relax and have the freedom to run around. This is important as it translates to better photos.
You also have the Brickworks which includes some great architecture. note: Brickworks is only paid parking.
Cons:
Once you park, you'll need to walk to a location. Not far, depending on the spot picked by your photographer, but minimum 5 mins.
Can't really get there by TTC. Will need a car to get to most locations along the Don Valley.
Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Etobicoke - a hidden gem, perfect for family photography
Pros:
Not super busy. Can wander through the park without the crowds.
There are 3 different beach spots.
You can get a mix of photos. Tree/nature, lake and city views (you actually get a fantastic view of the whole city).
Free and accessible parking.
Cons:
In Spring and Summer there are bugs. Those horde of tiny flies that fly together. Not dangerous but can be in your face (as seen in photo below).
By mid-july, the grasses are very tall so it's harder to get those dreamy shots without getting off the paths and into the grass.
Riverdale Farm, Toronto - family photos with a farm feel
Pros:
Free to enter.
Super fun for the kids. They have horses, sheep, goats and cows.
There are some lovely buildings to shoot near. But you also can have a walk down to a trail for nature only.
It's in the city but with farm vibes.
There is parking: at the side of the park/farm. And also street parking.
Cons:
While there is parking. You may have to drive around to find a spot.
Can be busy at times.
Not a huge variety of locations for photo spots. I would say maybe 5 possible photo locations. Though they are lovely.
As it's an inner-city farm. There are not a lot of wide open spaces.
Brueckner Rhododendron Garden, Mississuaga - an ideal spot for family photos and flowers
Pros:
Great locations with lots of options.
In spring, the flowers, especially the rhododendrons are amazing!
Has its own parking and it's free.
There is a small beach, a bridge or two and some open field. All round awesomeness.
Safe for the kids to run around and explore.
Cons:
Only accessible by car.
Can get a little busy.
Meadowvale Conservation Area, Mississuaga - a family photo spot that's a favourite for local families.
Pros:
A great space with lots of options.
A 30 minute drive from Toronto.
Free parking in large lot.
Has a river running through it.
Cons:
Of course, it gets busy on weekend. Lots of families go there for picnics and to hang out for the day. Parking is sometimes tricky.
Summertime means mosquitoes. Bring spray or go in spring or fall.
Aga Khan and other single locations, Toronto - locations for all types of families for their photos.
Other great single locations:
Liberty Village (Toronto Carpet Factory)
Godderham Building and St Lawrence Market
Dundas Square
Yonge, Queen, Adelaide Streets
Union Station and surrounding
Distillery District (a paid permission is necessary)
Pros:
With any of these places, they are iconic and make a statement.
They are often free and easily accessible by TTC.
Can be done any time of the year or day, depending on your desired look.
Cons:
Limited range of images.
Foot and road traffic can be an issue.
And that's it! I hope this helps you when choosing a location for you family photos in Toronto and the GTA !
Cheers!
Tanya
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