Vancouver boasts one of the most picturesque downtown cores in Canada, with a stunning blend of natural beauty and urban charm, it is an exceptional setting for engagement photography. In downtown Vancouver you will find striking architecture, vibrant street scenes, and serene waterfronts, providing many unique and gorgeous backdrops all within a walkable distance. Planning your engagement session in such a dynamic setting can be as exciting as it is overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan a memorable downtown Vancouver engagement session.
Who is this right for?
A city engagement session is best suited for couples who feel connected to the urban environment and love the high-energy city life. It’s perfect for those wanting to incorporate architectural elements and the bustling vibe of city streets into their photos. If you and your partner thrive in vibrant settings and want your engagement photos to reflect a modern, energetic lifestyle, then capturing your love in the urban jungle of downtown Vancouver will likely resonate with your personal story and aesthetic. This setting will not only highlight your unique relationship, but also celebrates the city where your love has flourished.
Location Selection: Within the relatively small area that is the Vancouver downtown peninsula, there are many unique and distinct neighbourhoods including the West End, Coal Harbour, the Financial District, Gastown, Chinatown, Yaletown and English Bay. All of these area offer something special and since they are so close together, it is certainly possible to use more than one for your session. Think about whether you want the vibe to be more modern or classic and choose the areas with the architecture to match.
Timing is Everything: Consider the time of year and the time of day for your session. Downtown sessions are suitable for any time of year in Vancouver, where typically the worst you will have to deal with is a bit of rain. You will just need to consider what you would like to wear and plan for the season where it is appropriate for the temperature. If you time things just right, the cherry blossoms or changing fall leaves may make an appearance in your photos. Ask your photographer about the best time of day for your chosen locations. The best light will depend greatly on the time of year and the sun’s position.
Styling Tips: Think about the colours and textures of your chosen locations. You can never go wrong with classic black and white, but keep in mind that neutral tones work well against busier backgrounds, while pops of colour stand out against more muted environments. Since you’ll likely be walking between different spots, choose stylish yet comfortable shoes, or at least bring an extra pair of comfortable shoes that you can switch into for longer stretches of walking.
Props and Activities: Interacting with each other and the busy city environment may be enough for capturing authentic and candid photos, but bringing props or planning an activity helps create a more interesting and diverse gallery. My favourite activity to do at an engagement session is a champagne pop! You can still enjoy this fun, celebratory activity when you take your photos downtown, as long as you find a secluded spot, such as a rooftop.
A downtown Vancouver engagement session is more than just a photo shoot; it’s a celebration of your journey together and the creation of cherished memories set against the canvas of the city. With thoughtful planning, the right outfits, and a skilled photographer, your engagement photos can truly encapsulate the essence of your relationship and offer the perfect addition to your wedding narrative.
Book your session today and let your love shine on the city streets!
