Capture the Wild Beauty of British Columbia Through Your Lens
Nestled between Vancouver and Whistler along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway, Squamish, BC is a photographer’s dream. With towering granite cliffs, lush forests, waterfalls, and coastal views, this outdoor haven offers some of the most diverse and dramatic backdrops in British Columbia.
As a professional photographer who’s spent years exploring this region, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite—and most photogenic—spots. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, lifestyle portraits, or adventure content, these are the top 10 best places to photograph in Squamish, BC.
1. The Stawamus Chief
This iconic granite monolith is one of the most recognized landmarks in the Sea to Sky corridor. With three summits to choose from, the views are absolutely worth the steep hike. Expect epic vistas of Howe Sound, snow-dusted peaks, and forested valleys—perfect for wide-angle shots, adventure portraits, and golden-hour captures.
Pro tip: Sunrise from the First Peak offers surreal light and fewer crowds.
2. Sea to Sky Gondola
Not up for the Chief hike? The Sea to Sky Gondola brings you straight into alpine magic. From the top, you’ll find viewing platforms, suspension bridges, and multiple hiking trails with jaw-dropping views. Great for branding, elopements, or cinematic lifestyle sessions.
Pro tip: Late afternoon light here is dreamy—especially in autumn when the colors pop.
3. Shannon Falls Provincial Park
At 335 metres, Shannon Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in BC and an absolute showstopper. The mist, towering cliffs, and moss-covered rocks offer a mystical, moody backdrop that’s perfect for romantic portraits, editorial sessions, or slow shutter waterfall shots.
Pro tip: Bring a neutral density filter to play with long exposures.
4. Murrin Provincial Park & Quercus Viewpoint
Often overlooked, Murrin Park is a hidden gem. The lake is calm and reflective, while the short hike to Quercus Viewpoint delivers sweeping views over Howe Sound and the Chief. It’s ideal for elopements, engagement photos, and golden-hour lifestyle content.
Pro tip: Go midweek for more privacy, especially during summer months.
5. Brohm Lake
Located just north of Squamish, Brohm Lake is surrounded by thick forest, calm waters, and easy-access trails. The reflections here are unbeatable—especially on still mornings. Think serene nature portraits, forest bathing vibes, and earthy lifestyle sessions.
Pro tip: The loop trail offers several photogenic viewpoints along the bluffs.
6. Alice Lake Provincial Park
A favorite for families, campers, and creatives, Alice Lake offers lush trails, wooden bridges, and peaceful coves. It’s an all-season location ideal for family sessions, maternity portraits, or casual outdoor brand shoots.
Pro tip: Misty fall mornings here are absolutely magical.
7. Brackendale Eagle Viewing Area
From November to February, thousands of bald eagles flock to Brackendale, making it one of North America’s top eagle-watching spots. Wildlife photographers will love the action, while the quiet riverside trails provide peaceful forest backdrops.
Pro tip: Bring a telephoto lens and shoot during morning light for sharp, crisp images.
8. Squamish Estuary
The estuary offers unique coastal scenery with panoramic views of Mount Garibaldi, wind-swept grasses, and kite surfers dancing in the breeze. This spot blends sea and sky like nowhere else in the region.
Pro tip: Perfect for environmental portraits, moody elopements, or wind-filled editorial shoots.
9. Crumpit Woods
Looking for mystical forest vibes without the crowds? Crumpit Woods is a locally loved network of trails and bike paths winding through old-growth trees, mossy ridges, and quiet clearings. Ideal for moody portraits, fitness shoots, or creative storytelling.
Pro tip: Bring boots—it can get muddy, but the filtered light here is phenomenal.
10. Smoke Bluffs Park
A stone’s throw from downtown Squamish, Smoke Bluffs offers rock climbing culture, panoramic views, and secluded forest nooks. The elevated viewpoints are perfect for adventure sessions, engagement shoots, or cinematic sunset portraits.
Pro tip: Late summer evenings here are warm, golden, and filled with ambient cliff-side light.
Bonus Tips for Photographers Visiting Squamish:
- Lighting is everything – Golden hour and overcast mornings yield the best mood and depth for outdoor sessions.
- Pack for the elements – Rain gear, sturdy shoes, and a microfiber cloth go a long way in coastal BC.
- Respect the land – Many Squamish locations are sacred to the Squamish Nation. Leave no trace, tread gently, and always be mindful of the natural environment.
Why Squamish Is a Dream for Creators
What makes Squamish so special is its raw, ever-changing natural beauty. From misty forests to wind-swept coastlines and alpine vistas, the variety of textures and tones makes it ideal for visual storytellers, adventure lovers, and creativeslooking for soulful, dynamic imagery.
Whether you’re planning a content shoot, a couples session, or an outdoor elopement, Squamish delivers untamed West Coast beauty with endless visual possibilities.
Ready to Book a Squamish Photography Session?
At Nick Sopczak Photography, I specialize in capturing real, grounded stories in natural environments across BC. Whether you want a moody forest shoot, mountaintop elopement, or relaxed lifestyle session, I’ll guide you to the most photogenic spots and help you feel confident every step of the way.
📩 Let’s connect to plan your Squamish session—and create something unforgettable together
