We don't gatekeep here!
I'm sharing my favourite locations for photoshoots today because well, I didn't invent them and I just like sharing the good stuff! Who knows, maybe it can even inspire you to pick a wedding venue near those locations so you can have your wedding photos shot there (and hopefully, by me!). Before I get started, a little backstory:
I have been living in Montreal for the past 12 years and as I am typing this, my husband and I are planning our move to the South Shore. I grew up on that side of the island so it won't be anything new to me. But, I will still have to find or rediscover some new "go-to" for upcoming sessions. I have been so close to all the places I love the most that it will feel a bit weird to change my habits. Though, I am welcoming the change with open arms and can't wait to make new finds. That being said, here is my top 5 favourite spots!
Les Berges de Verdun, Montréal
Always and forever number one in my heart. As a Verdun girly myself, I don't think I could have asked for a better spot for photoshoots. We're talking tall grasses, plenty of greeneries, majestic Willow trees, a small hill that leads to the St Lawrence river, the river side itself and believe it or not, a bathroom! Yes, the park has a bathroom. It is often why I suggest this parc for family sessions, especially with young kids. Having access to a bathroom is truly a massive plus. Now, you don't have to just take my word for it, I will give you exemples from the many shoots I've had there.
To access Les Berges, you can park at the intersection of Fayolle and LaSalle.
Parc Régional Des Grèves, Contrecoeur
A little bit outside the city but if you're like me and you like to drive, it truly is a perfect spot. You get a lot of the perks of Les Berges de Verdun except there is one more. A sun that sets on the water! This location is also alongside the St Lawrence river and has a sandy beach as a shore. There is also a nice open area with grass and trees and at the entrance, it's a more wooded area. If you cross the Marie-Victorin boulevard, you have an access to an even larger forest but I admit I have not yet tried this portion of the park. It is important to note that the park holds a summer camp so you may want to verify before you go. I have gone on fall evenings and there was nobody there.
Parc Régional des Grèves, 10350 Rte Marie-Victorin, Contrecoeur. There is parking on site.
Montreal's Old Port
Ok yeah, I don't think this spot is a secret or needs an introduction but hey, I still love it! I am guilty of thinking it was overrated and avoided shooting there for many, many years. Then one day, a couple reached out and they wanted their bridal session to take place there and of course, I wasn't going to say no. That is when I realized that I slept on this beautiful location for too long! You see, Montréal is a victim of it's seasons and unfortunately, there aren't many indoor locations you're allowed to shoot in (Don't talk to me about the Westmount Greenhouses, it still hurts...) so what do you do when its the end of winter, everything is muddy and trees don't have their leaves yet? You go to the Old Port! The stunning architecture will never let you down. It can get crowded during summer and fall so be prepared to have to wait to shoot in very famous locations but if you're willing to explore, you will most certainly find the sweet spot for some magical photos!
Montreal's Old Port, 333 de la Commune W., Montreal. There is parking on street and many indoor parking lots around.
Parc des Étangs Antoine Charlebois, Ste-Julie
A fun discovery I made a few years ago on the South Shore. It's a park composed of a nice trail alongside many little bogs and lakes. There are some beautiful wooden paths, bridges, a gazebo and a wooded area. It has been a favourite of mine for Fall sessions as the colours are truly breathtaking! In my opinion, the most interesting parts are all very close to one another so you don't need to be walking great distances to find a beautiful scenery. Now that I will be living on the South Shore, I am hoping to visit this beautiful park more often!
There isn't a precise address but I suggest parking on rue Auger. It will take you directly across the park. Closest post code is J0L 1N0.
Cap Saint-Jacques Beach, Montreal (West Island)
I'm sure you've noticed by now, but I love water. There's such something about staring at the waves that brings me so much peace. Another thing I love is a good sunset. Want to know what's even better? When I can combine the two! Yes, this sandy beach gives me the best of both worlds. The park is open year round but keep in mind that during summer time, it is a very busy place! Luckily, the sun sets quite late at that time of the year so you can enjoy the beach in the evening. While it is considered closed because there are no lifeguards present, there may still be some swimmers but usually, you can find a nice section to use that will still feel intimate. In the fall, you can enjoy the beautiful colours with no swimmers around!
21115 Boulevard Gouin Ouest, Montréal. There is parking but you have to pay for it.
There you go!
Hope these beautiful places will inspire you and make you want to go explore. Whether you are a photographer, a family, a couple or future spouses, it's always a good thing to be aware of in what kind of setting you want your photos to take place. After all, they are memories that will last you a lifetime and the background shouldn't be picked randomly. Thank you for taking the time to read this post and hoping to meet you in one of these locations!
With love,
Vero
