5 Ottawa photo spots that aren't clichés
Everyone shoots Parliament Hill. These five Ottawa spots give you that unmistakable local look with a fraction of the crowd. Pin them, check the light, and go.
A great location does half the work in a photo. After years of shooting across the city, these are the places I come back to, and the time of day that makes each one sing.
1. Major's Hill Park
Sweeping views of Parliament and the Chateau Laurier without standing in the middle of traffic. Wide lawns, big sky, and warm stone behind you. Best time: golden hour, just before sunset.
Open in Google Maps →2. The Arboretum, Central Experimental Farm
Rolling green hills and mature trees ten minutes from downtown. Blossoms in May, deep fiery maples in October, soft open shade all summer. Best time: spring blossom or mid October colour, early morning.
Open in Google Maps →3. The Rideau Canal and Ottawa Locks
Water, old stone staircases, and the Chateau rising above. In winter the canal becomes the largest skating rink in the world, which is a whole shoot of its own. Best time: early morning for calm water, or a crisp winter afternoon.
Open in Google Maps →4. Dow's Lake and Commissioners Park
Calm water year round and a sea of tulips every May for the Canadian Tulip Festival. Bring colour, the background already has plenty. Best time: mid May at dawn, before the crowds.
Open in Google Maps →5. Pink Lake lookout, Gatineau Park
Ten minutes across the river and you are in real wilderness. Misty mornings, a jewel green lake, and the best fall colour in the region. Best time: early October, first thing in the morning.
Open in Google Maps →The spot sets the mood, the light sets the magic. Get both right and you barely have to pose.
Want help matching a location to your shoot? That is half of what I do before we even pick up a camera.