The Best Photoshoot Locations
Where to Shoot?
A crucial step in the photoshoot planning process is picking out the right location that is going to deliver the beautiful, quality images that you want out of a shoot. Location impacts so many aspects of a photograph (lighting, background, colours, tones etc.) so it is important to take care when selecting the right location for you. A few good questions to ask yourself are:
- What kind of colours am I wanting in my photographs?
- What outfit do I want to wear (it is important to make sure that your outfit fits the style and vibe of the location)
- What style of photograph am I wanting to get? (eg. editorial, portfolio building, lifestyle etc.)
All of these questions are crucial when picking a location for a shoot to ensure that you are happy with the final images. I've compiled a photoshoot location guide (all within the Calgary, AB area) so that you are able to better pick a location that is right for you and you needs!
Kensington
Kensington is a super versatile location filled with modern artistic walls, residential streets with close proximity to Riley Park (lots of flowers in the summer months). This location is my personal favourite!
instagram: @libertyjae
Princes Island
Princes Island is very close to Kensington and is in the heart of Calgary. This location is a great environment based location with opportunities for river shots, occasional flowers and beautiful greenery.
instagram: @breanna.schneiderr
East Village
East village is a location very close in proximity to Inglewood and shares some of the same features. This location is definitely more built up and modern than Inglewood is (this is seen through the taller, more modern apartment buildings and the beautiful modern architecture throughout the location) while still retaining a bit of the rustic feel of Fort Calgary.
instagram: @sjaco_fierce
17th Ave
This location provides lots of variety for some more editorial, city focused photographs. 17th avenue is filled with modern buildings, fun artistic walls as well as a real modern city vibe perfect for any photoshoot.
instagram: @jaidabathy_
Peace Bridge
The peace bridge is at the centre of Princes Island and is a beautiful place for some modern, architecture focused shots.
instagram: @libertyjae
Inglewood
Inglewood is a great rustic/modern location. Based in the heart of Fort Calgary, the mixture of rustic buildings, artistic expression and new modern shops provides a very versatile location with lots of opportunities for amazing photographs.
instagram: @clairemoserr
Marda Loop
This location provides lots of variety and lots of different opportunities for beautiful images. Photographs taken in marda loop tend to be more casual shots as this location feels very “local” if that makes sense. There isn’t as much “city life” as the other locations in this guide but this spot always allows for more fun, casual photoshoots.
instagram: @rachelhassonyyc
The Core/Stephen Ave
The Core, Stephen Ave and the +15 bridges offer great city shots and amazing bright lighting. Though busy, this location is great for more casual as well as editorial shoots.
instagram: @bryn_makena
Devonian Gardens
The Devonian Gardens is located within The Core (central Calgary). It is a beautiful location that provides beautiful lighting and greenery, fantastic for editorial shots.
instagram: @bryn_makena
Weaslehead/Springbank
These two locations are not close in proximity but provide very similar images. If you are interested in very natural looking photographs with lots of forest and various greenery, these two locations are for you.
instagram: @amaliamylonas_