Best Photo Locations in Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert for Your Next Family Portrait
- Chad Movold
- Jun 14
- 6 min read
Looking for the perfect backdrop for your family portrait? Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert have a wealth of stunning locations that will suit a variety of different styles. Whatever you envision for your photo session, this guide highlights fantastic spots to capture unforgettable memories.
Before we jump into the locations, don’t forget that professional photographers often have great insights about specific spots that would work best for your family’s vibe and needs.
Choosing the Right Spot
Selecting a photography location involves more than just picking a beautiful landscape. You want to see your family’s personality shine through in each photo. Think about the type of scenery and atmosphere that fits your family's style—do you a formal look in a more groomed looking park or a casual moment captured along a tranquil riverbank?
Keep practical aspects in mind, too. Some locations may require you to walk a distance or may not be easily accessible for family members with mobility challenges. Think about the comfort and convenience of your family as you browse the options below.
Photo Locations in Edmonton
Edmonton River Valley
The Edmonton River Valley is an expansive area filled with scenic pathways and beautiful viewpoints. With over 180 km of pathways and 20 parks, you are sure to find a great spot for your family photo session.
Kinsmen Park Area
The area in Kinsmen Park in Edmonton on the south side of the North Saskatchewan River near the High Level Bridge is a fantastic spot for a photos session.
Fort Edmonton Park
An Edmonton attraction with many historical buildings, lots of great areas for photos, including: Memorial Garden Area in Fountain Park - A serene garden with flower beds and a black wrought iron fence situated on 1905 Street. Other locations within Fort Edmonton include 1885 Street and 1920 Street. Also, if you envision your photo with a steam train or streetcar, you can get it done in Fort Edmonton Park.
Hermitage Park
Located on the northeast side of Edmonton in the Hermitage neighbourhood, this park has a small lake, paved trails, and lots of natural areas.
Terwillegar Park
Also known as Terwillegar Dog Park, this natural area has large trees and paths that make a great backdrop for family portraits. This location can be a busy spot, but with such a large area, you can always find a place for photos.
Muttart Conservatory
If you want a unique twist for your portrait, consider the Muttart Conservatory with its iconic glass pyramids. Close to downtown Edmonton and the River Valley, the grounds around the Muttart Conservatory are a fantastic spot for photography. Mature trees and paved pathways connect you to Henrietta Muir Edwards Park as well.
MacTaggart Sanctuary
MacTaggart Sanctuary is located in South Edmonton along 23rd Ave. and 119th St. The area includes a small bridge and some nice spots with hills and tall grass. It is a very popular spot for family photos, so be prepared for crowds at busier times of the year, like in the fall.
Hawrelak Park
Hawrelak Park is considered one of the jewels of Edmonton’s River Valley and a is favourite for many Edmonton families. Conveniently located close to downtown, the park has many areas for photos with large open spots with mature trees and a picturesque pond.
Old Arts Building/Convocation Hall - UofA Campus
The Old Arts Building, also known as Convocation Hall at the University of Alberta, is a picturesque spot for family photos. This historic site, with its stunning architecture and rich heritage, provides an ideal backdrop.
Government House
Government House is located in Edmonton's Glenora neighbourhood at 12845 102 Avenue.
It is a historical building and the former official residence of the lieutenant governors of Alberta. The sandstone building is popular for family and wedding photos. The grounds around Government House are also well-maintained and have some nice natural treed areas.
Whyte Avenue
If urban vibes are more your style, check out Whyte Avenue (82 Ave between 99 Street and 109 Street). It can be a busy area but the lively atmosphere provides endless opportunities for colourful and dynamic photos. Capture your family's energy against painted murals in an alleyway or you could even check out the area around the farmers market!
Louise McKinney Riverfront Park
Adjacent to downtown Edmonton and immediately south of the Edmonton Convention Centre, Louise McKinney Park is renowned for its trails and promenade along the river. You can also check out the Chinese garden and gazebo.
97 Street Boulevard
Family photos along 97th St. on the north side of Edmonton have long been a popular spot. The row of trees turns vibrant colours in the fall, making the spot on 97th St. between 139 Avenue and 150th Ave. a very popular photo location.
Whitemud Park
Located just off the Whitemud Freeway and Rainbow Valley Bridge - just drive down Rainbow Valley Road to the parking lot. This park is a large natural area with lots of space, trails, and a few bridges. A popular spot for photos any time of the year, it is especially busy in the fall.
Alberta Legislature Building
An iconic building with beautiful architecture and garden areas. This downtown Edmonton landmark located at 10800 97 Avenue is a large sandstone building that has huge columns and steps plus a fountain and many beautiful areas in and around the grounds.
Griesbach Community in North Edmonton
This community which is just west of 97th Street between 137 Ave and 153 Ave has park area right in the centre of the community aptly named "Griesbach Central Park." It is a newer area so it has more of a modern look.
Mill Creek Ravine
Mill Creek Ravine is filled with endless opportunities if you want a natural nature look for your family photos. The ravine runs from Argyle Road to downtown Edmonton. It’s a large area so you will need to have a specific meeting point in mind before heading out. Check out the mini bridges and pathways or go along the creek for some great photos with water.
Sherwood Park Photo Locations
Woodbridge Farms
Woodbridge Farms is a charming park area located in Sherwood Park, close to Baseline Road and Anthony Henday Freeway. There is a nice little pond area and a covered bridge.
Smeltzer House
A 100 year old historical home located in a mature area of Sherwood Park. The Smeltzer House has a botanical garden area with a gazebo.
Greengrove Park
Greengrove Park offers a peaceful ambiance with its large trees and wide-open spaces. It's a simple park centrally located in Sherwood Park and close to Sherwood Park Mall. This park has lots of large trees and green grassy areas.
Ball Lake
Located in the Nottingham neighbourhood in Sherwood Park, this is a peaceful park with a walking trails, a bridge and open grassy areas.
Festival Place Area
Situated around Broadmoor Lake in Sherwood Park, Festival Place has a lovely walking path around the lake and some treed areas for photos.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park is located just off Sherwood Drive and Iris Evans Way. It's a large park with mature trees, garden area, and natural ponds.
Summerwood Sunfield Park
Located in the Summerwood neighbourhood of Sherwood Park, this park offers a natural and relaxed feel. It’s a rustic location with a few spots to photograph along an old wooden fence.
Sherwood Park Natural Area
Located on the outskirts of Sherwood Park, Sherwood Park Natural Area is a nice wooded area that has many paths and large trees. Be prepared for a lot of walking.
Strathcona Wilderness Centre
Located about 20 minutes east of Sherwood Park, on Range Road 212 just off Highway 16/Yellowhead Trail this is a georgous forested area with lots of hiking trails. Note that pets are not permitted.
St. Albert Photo Locations
St. Albert Botanic Park
The Botanic Garden is within the city of St. Albert. It has pathways, nice benches, shaded areas, and many types of ever changing colourful flowers. This is a beautiful garden area that is well-maintained with dynamic backgrounds. Some spots to note are: the Rose Garden, the Shade Garden, Crabapple Lane, the Cottage Garden, the Fairy Garden, the Heritage Garden and the Restful Garden.
Lois Hole Centennial Park
With walking trails and stunning water views, Lois Hole Centennial Park is an excellent choice for a classic family portrait. The blend of natural beauty and serene landscapes helps highlight your family's bond in a calm setting.
Lions Park and The St. Albert Train Trestle
Located along the Sturgeon River, here you will find an old rustic looking train trestle bridge and nice pathways and mature treed areas.
Grandin Pond
Located on Grandin Road in St. Albert, this area has tree lined trails and is fantastic location in the fall for family photo shoots. Park at Grandin Pond parking lot.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right location for your family portrait is essential to capturing those special moments. Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert offer a rich variety of stunning options, whether you prefer serene parks or bustling urban settings.
Consider your family’s personality, the atmosphere you wish to portray, and practical aspects like accessibility. Don't hesitate to reach out to a professional photographer for their expert suggestions—they can help you find the best locations for your family's specific needs making for a successful family photo session!
Now that you are inspired with some great locations to do your next family portraits, read our blog on how to choose a photographer: https://www.viewpointphotography.net/post/how-to-find-the-best-family-photographer-in-edmonton-a-step-by-step-guide
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