Family Photographer in North Saanich
My home base, and the place where forest trails, quiet beaches and family life all sit a few minutes apart.
North Saanich is where I live and raise my own three kids, so planning a family session here feels a bit like inviting you into my backyard. I know which trails stay muddy after rain, which beaches catch the evening light and how long a toddler can realistically walk before needing a snack.
My sessions are relaxed and built around connection. I’m far more interested in the way your kids lean into you than in everyone looking at the camera at once. You’ll never need to wonder what to do with your hands. I’ll guide you the whole way.
You can read about my approach on the family photography page, or keep reading for the North Saanich details.
Forest or shoreline? Local favourites in North Saanich
One of the best things about North Saanich is how different the landscapes are. Within a short drive you can choose a wooded hilltop, an old-growth trail down to the sea or a wide, grassy waterfront.
Horth Hill Regional Park is a favourite of mine for forest sessions. Sunlight filters through the trees in the afternoon, and the Summit Trail opens up to views of the Peninsula, the Gulf Islands and the San Juan Islands. The trail is rated moderate, so it suits families who don’t mind a little climb. I wrote a full guide to family photos at Horth Hill if you’d like to see what to expect.
Coles Bay Regional Park on Inverness Road is small but full of character. A roughly 10 minute walk on the Beach Trail or Nature Trail takes you through old-growth forest to a pebble beach looking out over Saanich Inlet. Two backdrops, one short walk. Here’s my Coles Bay guide.
Patricia Bay Park, at the south end of Scoter Trail, has paved accessible paths and a grassy slope leading down to a gently sloped beach. It faces west over Patricia Bay and Saanich Inlet, which means sunset light, a lovely option for families with grandparents or a stroller in tow.
Matching the spot to your family
When we chat during your free location consultation, I’ll ask a few simple questions. How old are the kids? Does anyone need a smooth path? Would you rather have dappled forest light or wide-open water? Your answers usually point straight to the right place.
As a rough guide, families with babies or grandparents often love Patricia Bay because the walk is easy. Adventurous kids tend to light up on Horth Hill. If you can’t decide between forest and beach, Coles Bay gives you both.
After you book, you’ll receive my prep guide, a Pinterest style board with outfit ideas and a fun questionnaire. That way, by the time we meet on the trail, I already know who loves bugs, who needs a snack break and who will do anything for a piggyback ride. Your edited photos arrive in a private online gallery, with black and white versions included.
- Little ones and grandparents: Patricia Bay Park
- Adventurous kids and dappled forest light: Horth Hill
- Forest and beach in one short walk: Coles Bay
- Rainy season or a brand new baby: your own home
Questions families ask
Do you charge a travel fee in North Saanich?
No. North Saanich is my home base, and travel fees only apply to locations more than 25 km away.
What time of day is best for forest photos?
For the forest at Horth Hill, I find the afternoon works best, when the sun is high enough to shine through the trees. For open views or the beach, the couple of hours before sunset give a soft, warm glow.
What colours work best in the forest?
Soft neutrals and gentle colours stand out nicely against green trees. I’d avoid busy patterns and very dark shades, which can make you blend into the forest.
Are muddy trails a problem?
Not at all, they’re part of the fun. Wear shoes with good grip, bring a change of clothes for the kids, and we’ll stick to the easier sections if it’s been raining.
Can we do our session at home instead?
Absolutely. In-home sessions are relaxed, weather-proof and perfect for capturing everyday life. See all the session types I offer around here on my North Saanich photographer 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.