Finding the Perfect Vancouver Location for Your Commercial Photoshoot

Mar 23

Vancouver, British Columbia, offers a stunning and diverse backdrop for commercial photography, from urban sophistication to natural beauty. This guide provides a concise overview of key resources and considerations for finding the ideal location for your next project in and around Vancouver. Having grown up in Vancouver, and been a photographer for over 10 years has given me a look at what this gorgeous city has to offer.

Location Rental Platforms in Vancouver

This image was shot on assignment for Jane App using one of Giggster’s locations for $110/ hr.

Online platforms offer a convenient way to discover and book unique spaces for photoshoots. Think of them hourly versions of Airbnb but made specifically for things like photoshoots.

Giggster: A strong platform in Vancouver with a variety of creative spaces like lofts, studios, and apartments. Hourly rates average around $190 .

Peerspace: Another excellent option for booking unique photo studios and other venues in Vancouver .

Related to these relatively affordable and smaller spaces are professionally managed locations—such as the Vancouver Art Gallery—available through companies like Location Fixer. Its sister company, Location Base, specializes in a separate collection of smaller properties. These locations are primarily used by the film industry but can also accommodate photoshoots.

Vancouver’s Outdoors: Brief Location Inspo

Vancouver’s outdoors are rich with photography opportunities. From lush urban parks to eclectic, character-filled neighborhoods, this city has too many great locations to mention.

Stanley Park

A 400-hectare rainforest in the city's heart, offering diverse backdrops from towering trees to city and mountain views .

Image shot on assignment for Destination Vancouver, Vancouver’s tourism board.

English Bay Beach

A popular West End beach with beautiful sunset views overlooking Stanley Park and downtown .

Gastown

Vancouver's historic neighborhood with Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, and unique charm.

Images shot on assignment for Thursday Boots, a New York-based company wanting some images with a Tribeca vibe.

Granville Island

A vibrant island across False Creek with markets, murals, and waterfront views .

Gastown’s historic cobblestone roads and brick buildings.

Shot in Vanier Park for Northern Icon’s, right next to Kits Beach.

Coal Harbour

A sophisticated urban area with modern skyscrapers reflecting in the harbor, framed by the North Shore Mountains .

Kitsilano Beach

A beautiful beach town overlooking the city, north shore mountains, and ocean expanse towards the islands. It’s the home for the refined urban hippy, though I am biased in calling this area my home.

Nothing New tasked me with photographing their shoes in dozens of outdoor locations around Vancouver.

North Shore

Whytecliff Park, Lighthouse Park, Deep Cove, Seymour Mountains. The list of gorgeous outdoor locations is endless here. Features rugged coastlines, old-growth forests, and serene ocean vistas .

Fraser Valley

Pitt Lake, Golden Ears Provincial Park, Campbell Valley Regional Park. Perfect for more secluded and wild-looking spots with lakes, forests, and open fields.

Considerations

Depending on the size of the production and location, permits may be required.
Though these locations are undoubtedly stunning, Vancouver is infamous for its unpredictable weather. If outdoor shooting is a priority, the warmer months offer the best chance of favorable conditions, but planning backup dates can ensure we capture the needed images.

Adventure Locations

Just a short drive from Vancouver’s downtown core lies some of the most spectacular adventure locations. As someone who can often be found going for long runs, hiking, camping, climbing, skiing, or whatever other adventure, scouting these hidden gems is almost a part-time job of mine. From fly-in alpine lakes in the Squamish backcountry to death-defying cliffs in Whistler, to gorgeous lookouts in North Van, I can help you find the perfect adventure location for your project. Just reach out!

A BTS photo of me shooting for Nikon’s new Z50II camera campaign.

A fly in-lake, located in Squamish, shot for Sea to Sky Air.

Conclusion

Vancouver's diverse locations offer endless possibilities for commercial photography. By leveraging available resources and careful planning, you can find the perfect setting to bring your creative vision to life.

Looking for a photographer?

I specialize in crafting photography that authentically captures a brand’s unique story through compelling, action-driven imagery. My experience includes collaborations with prominent tourism clients such as Destination Vancouver and Discover Surrey, adventurous outdoor campaigns for Nikon, and vibrant corporate shoots for innovative Vancouver-based companies like Jane App.

If my style resonates with your vision, I'd love to hear about your project. You can explore my commercial portfolio here.

Ian Harland