Family Photos in Brentwood Bay
A seaside village on Saanich Inlet, with calm water, curving arbutus trees and evening light across the inlet.
Brentwood Bay has a quieter, sheltered feel compared with the Peninsula’s east shore. The village sits on Saanich Inlet and Tod Inlet, so instead of open ocean you get calm water, forested hills on the far side and the little Brentwood to Mill Bay ferry coming and going.
For family photos, that gentleness is a gift. Kids can wander, throw pebbles and explore while I quietly capture the moments in between. I’m Alyssa, a lifestyle photographer based a short drive away in North Saanich, and I’d love to help you plan something easy and meaningful here.
If you’re new to my work, my family photography page explains how my sessions run. Below, I’ll focus on what makes Brentwood Bay special.
Why the inlet light is worth planning around
Saanich Inlet lies to the west of the village. That means that in the evening, the sun sets over the water and the hills beyond, and light comes softly across the inlet toward you. For families, an evening session in Brentwood Bay can give that warm, golden look many parents are hoping for.
Of course, the right time also depends on your kids. A glowing sunset is no use if your toddler melts down at 7 pm. During our free style and location consultation, we’ll balance the light with your family’s routine. Sometimes a late afternoon start is the sweet spot.
On grey days, the inlet has its own quiet mood. Overcast light is soft and even, which is very flattering for faces, and the calm water turns silver. I never think of a cloudy forecast as a lost cause here. A little drizzle and a cosy sweater can make for some of the most tender, snuggled-up photos.
Brentwood Bay spots I love suggesting
Verdier Park sits at the foot of Verdier Avenue, right beside the ferry dock. It has a gently sloping lawn, Douglas fir and arbutus trees, a paved path, benches and washrooms, with a walkway and stairs to a beach that comes and goes with the tide. The arbutus, with their twisting red bark, make a beautiful frame for a family cuddled close together.
For something woodsier, the Tod Inlet entrance to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is reached from Wallace Drive. BC Parks describes the Tod Inlet trails as gentle, passing old settlement sites from the cement works that operated here in the early 1900s. At the end you’ll find calm, sheltered water. It’s a lovely walk for families with school-aged kids who like a little adventure and a bit of history.
Close by in Saanichton, Centennial Park on Wallace Drive adds a big playground and walking trails, which can be a smart warm-up stop for very little ones.
- Verdier Park: lawn, arbutus and fir, inlet views, washrooms
- Tod Inlet trail (Gowlland Tod Park): gentle forest trail to calm water
- Check the tide before a Verdier beach visit, since access depends on it
What to wear for an inlet session
Brentwood Bay’s palette is deep greens, blue-grey water and the warm rust of arbutus bark. Soft creams, dusty blues, muted greens and warm earthy tones all sit nicely against that. Try to coordinate rather than match, and avoid big logos or busy prints.
Your Pinterest style board will arrive after booking, and if you’re unsure, send me photos of a few options and I’ll help you choose.
Questions families ask
Can we bring our dog to family photos?
Pets are family too, and I love including them. Rules differ from park to park, so check the current rules for the location before you go, or consider an in-home session where your pet can relax.
How long does a family session take?
Plan for about an hour. That gives everyone time to warm up, play and settle in without anyone getting worn out.
Do you photograph other sessions in Brentwood Bay?
Yes, I offer maternity, newborn, couples and more here too. You’ll find them all on my Brentwood Bay photographer page.
How do I check prices?
All my packages are listed on my investment page. Every option includes a prep guide, a style guide and a free location consultation.
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.