Choosing a location for your engagement session is important, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! I always tell my couples to start with places that mean something to them. Where was your first date? Where did the proposal happen? Do you have a favourite date night spot or a place you love to go for a walk with your dog? Choosing a location with personal significance makes your session even more meaningful and helps tell your story.
If you’re open to exploring, we can also pick a location based on the overall vibe you’re going for. Do you want golden fields that feel straight out of a prairie dream? An urban, industrial backdrop downtown? A cozy wooded trail? Whatever you envision, I have plenty of recommendations to match your style.
How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Session Location
If you’re feeling stuck on where to go, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
+ Do you want a location that’s meaningful or just aesthetically beautiful?
+ Are you drawn to nature, cityscapes, or a mix of both?
+ What kind of outfits do you envision wearing? Would they work better in a rustic, modern, or romantic setting?
+ Do you want a more private setting or a lively atmosphere with people in the background?
+ Are you willing to travel outside of Winnipeg for a more unique or adventurous spot?
Iconic & Beautiful Locations Inside Winnipeg
01. The Exchange District
If you’re into an urban, modern, or editorial vibe, the historic brick buildings, hidden alleyways, and old-world charm of the Exchange District create a beautiful backdrop.
02. The Forks
With a mix of waterfront views, walking trails, and stunning architecture, The Forks is a great mix of city meets nature! There’s indoor and outdoor options, with a variety of overall aesthetics we can go for. It does tend to be perpetually busy and full of people, so keep that in mind when planning.
03. Red River Floodway
This spot is perfect for anyone wanting wide open fields, nostalgia-vibes with transmission towers, and flowers! The floodway is another great spot if you’re bringing your dog along, and/or want privacy.
04. The Manitoba Legislative Building & Gardens
For couples looking for a more elegant or timeless feel, the grand architecture and well-manicured gardens make for a stunning setting.
05. University of Manitoba Campus
The mix of historic buildings, green spaces, and stunning pathways make this a surprising but gorgeous engagement session location.
For Nature Lovers: Parks, Beaches & Scenic Escapes in Manitoba
01. Birds Hill Park
A favourite for many! The mix of tall grass, forests, and sandy beaches gives a variety of backdrops in one location. Plus it’s usually within 30-40 minutes of driving from Winnipeg.
02. Beaudry Park
Quiet and peaceful, this park offers beautiful trails, open fields, and a tucked-away, intimate feel. It’s honestly perfect no matter the season! In summer it’s full of lush green grass, and by fall it gives the gorgeous prairie grass vibe with wide open fields. This one is great if you’re bringing your dog along as well!
03. Beaches!
If you’re open to a bit of a drive, there are so many gorgeous beaches within 1-2 hours of driving from Winnipeg. Grand Beach is the most popular, and for good reason! But Victoria Beach has road access before June and is a unique option. I’ve also photographed at Patricia Beach, Albert Beach, and more – all within Manitoba!
04. Winnipeg Beach, Matlock & Gimli
A dreamy spot if you love the idea of a lakeside session! Waves, docks, and charming small-town streets make for perfect engagement photos.
05. Pinawa Dam Provincial Park
A bit of a drive from Winnipeg, but if you’re up for a little adventure, this location offers rugged beauty, flowing water, and striking rock formations.
06. Stonewall Quarry
A unique outdoor location with dramatic limestone cliffs, grassy fields, and rustic walking trails. Perfect for couples who love a mix of industrial and natural landscapes.
unique & meaningful locations
- Your Favourite Coffee Shop or Brewery – If you have a go-to date spot, why not use it? A cozy café or local brewery can make for fun and relaxed photos.
- At Home! – Sometimes the best place is your own space. A session at home (or at your family cabin) can feel intimate, cozy, and so authentically you.
- A Seasonal Pick: Pumpkin Patches, Christmas Tree Farms & Flower Fields – Depending on the time of year, seasonal locations can bring extra charm and personality to your photos. Whether it’s a cozy fall session in a pumpkin patch, a romantic winter wonderland at a tree farm, or a dreamy summer shoot in a sunflower field, these locations add an extra layer of magic. I always have ideas for making these options more cinematic, less cheesy, so make sure you ask about them!
- Think about any unique activities or hobbies you love, that you might want to bring into your session! Hockey, board games, gardening, and baking are all things I’ve helped couples capture in the past and are just a few ideas for ya.
Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Engagement Session
Plan around golden hour
The best lighting happens just after sunrise or before sunset. Soft, glowing light makes all the difference.
Consider the season
Think about what the location will look like at the time of year you’re booking. Snow, greenery, or fall colours can all impact the vibe of your photos.
Dress for the setting
Your outfits should complement the environment. Flowy dresses work beautifully in nature, while structured, modern outfits suit urban locations.
Trust your photographer
I’ve shot in so many spots around Winnipeg and beyond. If you’re unsure, I can suggest hidden gems that fit your vision.
Let’s Plan Your Perfect Engagement Session!
No matter where we go, the most important thing is that your engagement session feels like you. If you’re unsure where to go, I always provide a location guide in my engagement session prep guide (with photos!) to help you narrow it down. I also have plenty of hidden gem spots pinned on my phone, so you’re in good hands.
So what are you waiting for!? Let’s make some magic—reach out to inquire about a session!
