March 1, 2023
As a professional pet photographer, I’m always on the lookout for picturesque locations that can add that extra special touch to my clients’ pet photos. The Outaouais and Ottawa region, being a mecca of nature parks, outdoor recreation, and historical monuments, has some of the best places to capture your furry buddies on camera. Whether it’s a scenic view by the waterfalls, gorgeous flower trees during spring time, or rustic charm of a farm, there are endless options to let your pet shine on their big day. In this blog post, I’ll share my top picks of pet-friendly places that will not only stun you with their beauty but also add more charm to your pet’s images.
Moore Farm
This historic barn in Hull, offers a perfect blend of rustic and boho aesthetics for your pet’s photography session. The decaying walls, rustic textures, and sun-dotted fields make an ideal backdrop for your furry friend. The old-fashioned barn doors in the background also provides a rustic charm, giving your photos a unique look.
Learn about this location here: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/projects/moore-farm
Carbide Wilson Ruins
Located in Chelsea, this historic ruin creates a perfect atmosphere for a moody and original pet photoshoot. The waterside view and woodlands surrounding the ruins add a calming and peaceful ambiance to this beautiful site. From having your pet posing under the breathtaking ruins, by the water or in the forest, this spot is sure to make a memorable and unique pet photo session.
Learn about this location here: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/carbide-willson-ruins
Mackenzie King Estate
This historic estate is a visual delight, with acres of serene gardens and trails to explore. The winding paths, flower beds, and stone walls in the garden will create a picturesque setting for your pet’s photoshoot. Take your time, enjoy the moment, and capture your pet basking under the shade of majestic trees or sniffing around the gardens.
Learn about this location here: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/mackenzie-king-estate
Canadian Museum of History
If you are looking for a middle ground between an urban and nature location for creative pet photography, the Canadian Museum of History in downtown Hull is the perfect spot. The architecturally stunning building and expansive grounds overlooking the river make an ideal backdrop for your pet’s portrait. You can experiment with different angles and themes and capture the essence of your pet artfully.
Learn about this location here: https://www.historymuseum.ca/
Dominion Arboretum
Whether it’s the fresh colors of spring or the golden hue of autumn, the Ottawa Dominion Arboretum has breathtaking backdrops to capture your pet’s photo moments. The vast expanse of vibrant flowers, lush foliage, and winding pathways creates a beautiful setting. The location’s botanical element and myriad of colors are perfect additions to making your pet pop in a photo.
Learn about this location here: https://gardensottawa.ca/gardens/the-dominion-arboretum-at-the-central-experimental-farmthe-dominion-arboretum-at-the-central-experimental-farm/
Fairview Estate
This historic property’s winding pathways, lush gardens, and different backdrops are a complete package for an impeccable pet photography session. The site’s old-world charm and the soothing ambiance of the gardens make it perfect for capturing your pet’s beauty and character.
Learn about this location here: https://www.reseaupatrimoine.ca/sur-les-traces-du-patrimoine/fiches/maison-fairview-scott/
Saint-René Park
With acres of wooded regions, hiking trails, and varying terrains, Parc Saint-Rene in Gatineau is a great location to take portraits or action shots of your pets. However, I do recommend going early in the morning if you don’t want to come across other dogs. You can explore the park’s wooded corners, streams, and ravines and choose a backdrop that suits your pet’s personality.
Learn about this location here: https://www.bringfido.ca/attraction/24170
Remic Rapids Park
Remic Rapids in Westboro is a unique location by the water where you can create stunning portraits of your fur babies. Whether you have them standing up on a rock or just want to capture a beautiful sunset in the background, I would totally recommend going to check it out.
Learn about this location here: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/remic-rapids-park
Old Chelsea Picnic Area
This woodland area located in Chelsea has everything you will love for a pet photography session: serene and rustic ambiance, refreshing river views, and an open field for the perfect photo-shoot moment with your fur babies. It’s also definitely a great spot to just go for a walk with your dog and enjoy nature.
Learn about this location here: https://ccn-ncc.gc.ca/endroits/stationnement-dans-le-parc-de-la-gatineau
Marina Aylmer Park
If you are looking to create beautiful images during sunset or silhouettes, this location is a great choice. There’s quite a few different spots with different backdrops and add different textures to your photographs as well.
Learn about this location here: https://www.gatineau.ca/portail/default.aspx?c=en-CA&p=activites_evenements_idees_sorties/marinas
Princess Louise Falls
A tranquil and calming place, Princess Louise Falls in Orléans adds a natural and beautiful setting to your pet photography session. The sound of the falls, cool breeze, and surrounding trees make a perfect backdrop for lovely woodsy images. Caution, some spots can be very slippery, please be careful when walking around.
Learn about this location here: http://www.capitalgems.ca/princess-louise-falls.html
My secret gem location
This is certainly one of my top favorite spots! It has so many elements and textures to play in order to produce a variety of stunning images. Each season gives this location a reason to revisit and photograph you pets, can you guess where it is?
Conclusion
These are some of my top picks for stunning pet-friendly locations in Gatineau and Ottawa that will help you capture priceless memories with your furry friends. Always ensure your pet’s safety and comfort before embarking on a photo journey. If you would like to see more of my portraits at different locations, check out my portfolio HERE
What are you favorite pet friendly locations around Gatineau and Ottawa to take your dogs for a walk, an adventure or to photograph them? Let me know in the comments, I love discovering new places I might not know about!