Read My Journal

4 Favourite Local Outdoor Locations with a Bonus – Burlington Family Photographer

I am officially declaring summer season here in Ontario! The other day it was sweltering hot at 36C. I am a summer girl so I was thriving and sweating. I love it! So I think it is just perfect timing to share my favourite outdoor locations where families can have fun while getting their family portraits done.

Here are my 4 favourite outdoor locations and a bonus in the end :

Dundurn Castle – Burlington Family Photographer

Dundurn Castle is probably the top favourite spot of local photographers in Hamilton. Usually when I mention this location, there is an impression that it will be an indoor session. It is actually an outdoor one because the grounds are perfect for running around, picnic style of session, etc.

Light Situation : pretty any time of the day. There are spots that will work any given time. If you are aiming for a specific spot though, you have to check in advance to see how it works. But I find that whatever time I shoot here, the light just works.

BONUS : Mid to late May, Lilacs bloom around the castle making it even more a magical location to have a season in. 

Paletta Mansion – Burlington Family Photographer

Are you seeing a theme here? Haha why yes. This next location is kind of in the category of Dundurn Castle. The difference is, it’s a mansion. This location is a popular wedding venue and has a lakefront. More than the lakefront though, the real gem for me here is the creek. 

Light Situation : For me, the lake would not work for a morning session because the light is too harsh. But the creek would be perfect! But for a session closer to evening time, I’d say the lake is perfect. The grounds are massive as well so I am sure there will be spots for portraits. I love to use the grass area to get those sitting and laying down shots of the family where they can hang out and chill like how they normally would.

Cityview Park South Entrance – Burlington Family Photographer

This location is in the middle of Hamilton and Burlington. This location does not have architectural buildings like the two mentioned above but this location offers a lot of nature – fields, tree lined paths, hiking area. I knew about this location because of my family and I often hike this location. It is one of our favourites! 

Lighting situation : In the morning the field in my opinion is unusable. But the tree lined path offers shade that can diffuse light best. The field is best closer to sundown. It can be used for laying down shots and laying down shots. There are tall grasses and trails that are also perfect for walking shots with family while they are hand in hand.

Kerncliff Park – Burlington Family Photographer

This park is right below Cityview Park. There is a trail that leads directly to it. Similar to Cityview Park, Kerncliff offers ample space for nature exploration for little ones and the whole family. Perhaps my favourite part of the location is the tree lined trail. Last fall was my first time having a session in the location during morning time and the colours are so rich! 

Light Situation : Mornings are best inside the tree lined path. Afternoons offer a view of the cliff which is what this park is named after! The boardwalk is nice as well in the evening time as it is shaded during that time of day.

BONUS : Hamilton/Burlington Beach (during that summer heat)

This location pretty much stretches the whole shoreline so you take your pick and you set up where the light works for you. 

Light Situation : any time of day!! I have had a session here close to noon and it was still very workable! And the water is an added bonus especially in the summer heat!!!

Thinking of booking a family session? Let’s chat! 

Bright and Airy – Burlington Family Photographer

Hello there, Mama! I am so happy you reached this part of the post. I am Ericka Ana, the photographer behind Ericka Ana Photography. I am a full service motherhood photographer specializing in Newborn, Maternity and Family Photography. I service Hamilton, Burlington, Mississauga, Ancaster, Oakville and surrounding areas. My aim is to capture your happy, sentimental and joyful memories and make sure they live in your homes through printed photographs and framed wall pieces. Let’s connect on Instagram!