Location, Location, Location...

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 | By: Kim Yanick Portraits

Favourite Outdoor Locations for Dog Photography on Vancouver Island

One of the best parts about living (and photographing!) on Vancouver Island is that we are spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful outdoor backdrops.

Whether your dog is a beach bum, forest explorer, or field frolicker, there’s a spot that’s perfect for your session—and your story. If you're wondering where we could go for your outdoor shoot, here are a few of my favourite dog-friendly locations to capture that magic.

Beaches – For the Golden Light & Wind in the Fur

Beaches have this soft, painterly quality—especially at golden hour. The open space, warm light, and water reflections give your images that glow you just can’t fake. And let’s be real: watching a dog run full-speed down the sand? Pure joy.

Best for:

  • Dogs who love water or wide-open space
  • Sunset silhouettes and movement shots
  • Playful, laid-back sessions

Bonus tip: Beaches are ideal for gallery walls or album stories—they give us epic wide shots and beautiful, intimate moments side by side.

Forests – Moody, Magical, and Full of Texture

If your dog feels most at home on a trail, surrounded by trees and mossy textures, forest sessions are where it’s at. These sessions feel more cozy and mysterious—great for fall tones, soft light, and peaceful vibes.

Best for:

  • Dogs who prefer shade or quieter spaces
  • Nervous or reactive pups needing room to decompress
  • A calm, connected feel to your portraits

Great for a storytelling album that feels like a walk through your dog’s happy place.

Open Fields – Casual, Natural, and Full of Personality

Fields give us that timeless, wide-open freedom. Tall grasses, wildflowers, and space to run. These are simple, gorgeous spaces where your pup can just be a goofball—and we can catch it all.

Best for:

  • Dogs who love to run and play
  • Casual family portraits with your pup
  • Light, bright, and natural storytelling
  • Perfect for a playful session with lots of candid energy.

Client’s Choice – Let’s Go Somewhere Meaningful

Have a favourite trail? Backyard that feels like home? Maybe a cabin or place your dog loves to visit? We can absolutely go there. Sometimes the most meaningful images come from a place that already holds a piece of your heart.

Best for:

  • Dogs with limited mobility
  • Older pets in their element
  • Sentimental sessions or memory keepsakes

This is especially lovely if you're thinking of a custom album full of “this is us” moments.

 

Every Dog Is Different—And That’s the Point

When we plan your session, we talk about all of this—your dog’s personality, energy level, comfort zone, and what kind of artwork you want at the end. The best location is the one that feels right for your dog and for you.

Let’s pick the perfect spot and make some magic.
Whether it’s beachy and bold or quiet and foresty, your session will be one to remember. [Let’s plan it together →]

Whether it’s beachy and bold or quiet and foresty, your session will be one to remember.

Let’s pick the perfect spot and make some magic.

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