Family Photographer in Central Saanich
From sandy dunes to a big community park to old-growth forest, Central Saanich has a backdrop for every age and stage.
Central Saanich is the green heart of the Peninsula, with Saanichton, Brentwood Bay and plenty of farmland in between. It’s a lovely place to raise a family and an easy place to photograph one, because so much of it is open, natural and close by.
I’m a lifestyle photographer based next door in North Saanich. When I work with families, I’m looking for the real stuff: a toddler’s belly laugh, a big sibling holding a little hand, parents sharing a look over everyone’s heads.
The question I hear most from Central Saanich families is not where to go, but which spot will actually work for their kids. So let’s sort that out by age.
Choosing a Central Saanich location by your kids’ ages
Every family is different, but over time I’ve noticed that certain places suit certain stages. Here’s how I’d think about three local favourites.
A good location for a family session is one where your kids can simply be kids. If they have something to do, like splash, dig or climb a log, they stop thinking about the camera. That’s when I get the photos you’ll treasure, the ones where everyone looks like themselves. So when we talk during your free location consultation, I’ll ask what your kids love to do on a Saturday, and we’ll go from there.
Toddlers and preschoolers: Centennial Park in Saanichton
Centennial Park on Wallace Drive covers more than 18 hectares, with a large children’s playground, a splash pad, walking trails and Graham Creek along its western edge. For a busy two or three year old, a session that starts with a few minutes of play is often the key to a happy hour of photos.
We can begin with swings and running, let the wiggles out, then wander to a quieter trail or natural area for the gentler, closer moments. It’s practical too, with washrooms in the fieldhouse.
Beach lovers and school-aged kids: Island View Beach and John Dean Park
Island View Beach Regional Park, on the eastern shore of the Peninsula, has a long sandy beach backed by dunes, an old salt marsh and wetlands. Kids who love to explore will happily dig, run and hunt for treasures while I photograph. There’s also a wide, packed-gravel trail of about 1 km along the beachfront, with benches, which helps if someone in your group prefers a firm surface. In spring and fall, the park asks that dogs stay on the trail and under control during bird migration.
For older kids who like a bit of adventure, ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Provincial Park straddles North and Central Saanich and surrounds Mount Newton. Its trails pass through old-growth Douglas-fir and western red cedar, with oak and arbutus higher up and lookouts toward Saanich Inlet. The main entrance is closed to vehicles from November to March, so it’s a spring and summer option for most families.
Whichever you choose, I’ll suggest timing based on the light and your family’s routine. Your prep guide and Pinterest style board will help with outfits that suit the setting.
- Centennial Park: playground, splash pad, trails and a creek
- Island View Beach: sand, dunes and an accessible beachfront trail
- John Dean Park: old-growth forest and inlet lookouts
Questions families ask
How do I keep a toddler happy during photos?
Plan around nap time, bring a favourite snack and let me do the silly work. I share more tricks in my post on making kids laugh in family photos.
Will I get photos with all of us, including me?
Yes. Moms are so often behind the camera, and making sure you’re in the frame with your kids matters a lot to me.
Is Central Saanich within your travel area?
Yes, it’s close to my North Saanich home base. Travel fees only apply beyond 25 km. My Central Saanich photographer page lists the other sessions I offer here.
How do we book?
Send me a note through my contact page with your preferred date, and tell me about your kids. Package details are on my family photography page and investment page.
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.