Photographer in Cordova Bay
Sandy beaches, ocean lookouts and forest trails on the Saanich shoreline.
Cordova Bay is a seaside neighbourhood in Saanich, with beach access points along a long stretch of shoreline. It is one of the best places near Victoria for photos where kids can dig, splash and explore.
If you are looking for a photographer in Cordova Bay, I offer family, maternity, newborn and couples sessions on the beach, in the forest or at home. I keep it playful and relaxed, and I guide you the whole time.
Cordova Bay is a short drive south from my home in North Saanich. Depending on the exact spot, a travel fee may apply for locations more than 25 km away, so just ask me and I will let you know.
Cordova Bay spots I love suggesting
Cordova Bay’s small neighbourhood parks are the doorways to the beach, and each one has its own feel.
- Cordova Bay Park: a small park on Cordova Bay Road with a playground, a lookout and access down to Cordova Bay beach. It sits across the road from Doris Page Park, and it is an easy meeting point for families with young children.
- Agate Park: a tiny park on Agate Lane with a lookout and beach access. It is a small, simple way down to the shoreline for couples and maternity sessions.
- PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) beach trail: trails lead down through the forest to a secluded sandy beach, so we can get tall trees and the sea in one session. Saanich notes that the beach area is sensitive for nesting herons, with temporary trail closures at times, so we will check what is open before your date.
Planning a beach session
Beach sessions are all about timing. A lower tide gives us more sand to play on, and evening light turns the water soft and golden. I check both the tide table and sunset time when we choose a date.
For outfits, think light, breezy and easy to move in. Soft neutrals, sandy tones, dusty blues and creams look beautiful against water and sand. Bare feet are welcome, but bring a towel and a change of clothes for little ones who will definitely find the water.
If you are bringing a dog, Saanich has seasonal dog rules on part of Cordova Bay beach in the summer months. Check the current rules before you go so nobody is caught off guard.
What a Cordova Bay session looks like
Most Cordova Bay sessions start at the top of the beach access with a few calm photos, then move down to the sand for play. Summer evenings are the classic choice, while spring and early fall give us quieter beaches and softer, lower sun.
In winter, beaches can be cold and windy for little ones, so I often suggest an in-home session instead and save the beach for warmer months.
Sessions for every stage
Family sessions on the beach are full of movement, from chasing waves to swinging kids between parents. For maternity photos, a flowing dress and an ocean breeze are a beautiful pair, and I have a few dresses in my client closet.
For newborns, I usually recommend an in-home session between 5 and 10 days old, when babies are sleepiest and you can stay comfortable at home.
Immediate family is always included, and grandparents or cousins can join for a small per-person add-on. Afterwards you get a private online gallery with black and white versions, and full-resolution digitals with printing rights.
Questions families ask
Is Cordova Bay beach good for toddlers?
Yes, the sandy shoreline is great for little ones. I plan around a lower tide so they have room to play safely while parents stay close.
What if it is windy?
A little breeze actually makes dresses and hair move beautifully. If it is too strong, we can tuck into a sheltered area or reschedule.
Can we start in the forest and finish on the beach?
That works well with the PKOLS beach trail, as long as the trail is open. We will plan the walk so little legs are not too tired.
Is there a travel fee for Cordova Bay?
A travel fee may apply for locations farther than 25 km from North Saanich. Ask me when you inquire and I will confirm for your spot.
Should the kids wear shoes on the beach?
Bare feet look sweet in photos, but bring water shoes or sandals for the walk down and for any rocky patches. I will tell you when it is time to kick them off.
Sessions in this area
Other areas I photograph
Let’s connect
Tell me a little about your family and the session you have in mind, and I’ll get back to you with dates and ideas.