A question that we are frequently asked is, where is a good location for our photo shoot? The simple answer is that there are many great places in and around the Calgary area. Every special place, nook and cranny has it’s own unique features that can make for an interesting flare or an eye catching photo. Let’s face it though, the photos aren’t of the location, the most important part of the photo is the subject…..YOU!
Even with that being said, we do still have favorite locations. Locations that we have used time and time again, that offer different things in different seasons. Locations that help with the atmosphere and are a great starting place to work from. Below are our Top 10 Favorite Photography Spots in Calgary (in no particular order).
Spruce Meadows
Spruce Meadows is located in South West Calgary off of highway 22X. They are Calgary’s site of many horse jumping competitions and shows, seasonal markets & shows, as well as great venue spaces for Weddings and Events. The vast grounds offer great views of rural Alberta with great buildings, architecture, wooden fences, long rows of trees, well landscaped areas, & even old fashioned train cars.
We love this venue for it’s accessibility (if there isn’t an event taking place), it’s variety of photo areas & it’s beauty year-round.
Steven Avenue (8th Ave)
Steven Avenue is located in the heart of downtown Calgary. This street is full of unique buildings and flare. Housing some of the oldest buildings in Calgary including the old bank buildings, it is the perfect backdrop for an urban flare.
We love this area for the mix of old & new, formal & casual, and always an aspect of the unexpected. If you are looking for an urban feel, this is definitely a great location!
Heritage Park & Calgary Reservoir
Heritage Park Historical Village is located off of 14th Street in South West Calgary. The park is one of North America’s largest living history museums. For a photography location one of the greatest parts is the Haskayne Mercantile Block which is outside of the main park by the main park gates and doesn’t require admission. Inside the park there are also many great locations to take advantage of!
In addition to the park which is full of interesting historic buildings and fun amusement rides, it has a great view of the Calgary Reservoir and the paddle boat. The reservoir is another aspect to this location that can be utilised for a more natural setting.
We love this location for its historical atmosphere combined with the calming natural setting of the reservoir. It is also truly versatile and can be used from everything from weddings to casual family portraits.
Riverfront Avenue & Memorial Drive
Riverfront Avenue & Memorial Drive is located on the North side of downtown. This area has beautiful views of downtown Calgary, the Bow River, as well as some great architectural features.
We love this location simply for the views of the Calgary skyline and the great architectural features.
Bow Valley Ranch – Fish Creek Provincial Park
The Bow Valley Ranch in Fish Creek Provincial Park is definitely one of the most popular photo locations in Calgary. With its gorgeous historic ranch house, belonging to the late Patrick Burns, tall grasses, large trees and overall country feel you can definitely see why.
We love this location simply because of its country backdrop. What is more perfect then a country inspired photo shoot in Calgary?
Baker Park
Baker Park is located in Calgary’s North West across from Bowness Park. This area offers large fields of green grass, views of the Bow River and some beautiful pergolas throughout the park.
We love this location because of it’s simplicity. It is manicured enough for wedding photos, but spacious enough for little ones to roam and run. It’s also gorgeous in every season. Truly a great location for all.
Inglewood
Inglewood is Calgary’s original main street. Located on 9th Avenue to the East of downtown. It offers an arts & culture scene mixed with an industrial vibe. The streets are lined with unique houses, interesting shops and restaurants, all with an industrial feel. It is Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood and neighbours Fort Calgary.
We love this area for it’s industrial feel and versatility. It’s also a great area for themed photo shoots.
Confederation Park
Confederation Park began with a, “…spring-fed creek [flowing] down what was once known at the “North Hill Coulee”…it was developed into this largely manicured park and golf course, and fortunately, with the wetland there remains a ‘taste of the wild’ in a city setting.
We love this location for it’s location in the North of Calgary off of 16 Ave. It is also a casual park full of gorgeous trees and a creek side scenery.
Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is a combination of beautiful animal environments and landscaped botanical gardens. It is the home of many animals and a popular visitor destination of residences and visitors.
We love this location for the beautiful indoor and outdoor gardens and backdrops that allow for any weather scenario.
Your Home!
There is no place more personal, more unique or more comfortable than your own home! Both inside and out all parts of your family home create a very personal backdrop to frame your memories captured in the photographs. Something that may seem so ordinary can often become the center of the most beautiful and creative photographs. As a bonus, no travel for you is required!