Kotsy Photography is a Toronto wedding photographer specializing in capturing couple's uniqueness through authentic, compelling & fun images. From large, all-day weddings to elopements & engagement sessions in Toronto, Ontario and the rest of the Greater Toronto Area.
Toronto has no shortage of wonderful locations for photo-shoots of all kinds. The following list below are perfect for engagement sessions.
1. Harbourfront

There’s an infinite amount of possibilities here between Bathurst and Harbourfront Centre.
Elements: Lake Ontario, countless changes in scenery/backgrounds including the wave deck, pedestrian bridge, music garden and boardwalk, views of downtown core including CN Tower.
Permit: Not required for engagement sessions.
Best time for pictures: Sunrise. Sunset is great too but much busier.
2. Casa Loma

Incorrectly labeled as an actual castle by some, this gorgeous stone-clad mansion is a beautiful and unique outdoor backdrop for wedding ceremonies and engagement sessions. Access to the south end is usually only possible if you pay admission to enter inside. However, sticking to the north (front) and east sides will provide enough variations for a mini session without added fees.
Be sure not to miss out on the gorgeous steep staircase with a perfect view of the CN Tower and downtown core. Located on the south/east corner and accessed from east side.
Elements: Unique Gothic style architectures, fountains, gardens, downtown view.
Permit: Not required for engagement sessions.
Best time for pictures: Daytime/sunset.
3. High Park

Located on the South West of Toronto, this city owned park has what it takes to make your engagement photo-shoot a memorable one. The sheer size of it will provide enough backdrops to fill an entire session.
Elements: Natural flowers, rustic paths, Grenadier Pond
Permit: Not required
Best time for pictures: Daytime/sunset
4. Neon Demon Studio

Undoubtedly one of the most unique studios in all of Toronto, the Neon Demon Studio is the place to be if you want to end your special day filled with beautiful vintage neon lights & signs. Check out my blog on an engagement session with Josh & Caitlin.
Elements: Scenes created out of strategically placed neon lights and other urban inspired décor like a phonebooth and arcade game.
Permit: Need to book studio time in advance.
5. Sunnyside Beach/Boardwalk

One of Toronto’s most popular beaches, and a fabulous spot for taking engagement photos. The boardwalk and gardens are my favourite.
Elements: Beautiful view of Etobicoke skyline and stunning boardwalk. Mural covered pedestrian bridge.
Permit: Not required
Best time for pictures: Sunset
6. Toronto Islands

What could be better than having a romantic time with your loved one on a ferry? You’ll also get to have fun at the beach and enjoy nature.
Elements: Island Ferry, stunning views of the city and beautiful nature scenes all over. The bridge connecting Centre-Island & Olympic Island shouldn’t be missed!
Permit: Required
Best time for pictures: Evening till nightfall
7. Scarborough Bluffs

You don’t have to travel far from the city to have a quiet and peaceful time. Easily one of the most unique photo locations in the whole city.
Elements: Beaches, Lake Ontario, The Bluffs (cliffs), Marina
Permit: Required
Best time for pictures: Sunset
8. Distillery District

Filled with Victorian Industrial Architecture, this is the most European-looking area of the city. Countless beautiful building after beautiful building, various art pieces and a big LOVE sign covered in locks. The Christmas Village every December adds even more visual impact but it’s recommended to go the week it opens and during the day to avoid massive crowds.
Elements: Victorian stone and brick buildings, LOVE sign, big heart art piece with view of CN Tower and downtown core.
Permit: Normally required but doing an inconspicuous engagement session is certainly possible.
Best time for pictures: Daytime
9. Toronto Botanical Gardens/Edwards Gardens


Saying this is a 2-4-1 deal would be an understatement. First off, the botanical gardens features no less than 17 themed gardens that serve as incredibly vibrant back drops. Adjacent to the Botanical Garden is the 31-acre Edwards Gardens that features beautiful bridges, pathways and waterfalls.
Elements: Many colourful gardens, beautiful paths, bridges and water streams.
Permit: Not required for engagement sessions.
Best time to visit: Couple hours before sunset. Fall or winter after a fresh snowball is breathtaking.
10. Graffiti Alley

I like to call this place the urban museum of art. Located in the west end of downtown, this alleyway offers the most unique photo session location. Dressing up with formal clothing will provide a great contrast with the countless colourful murals. The best part is the art is constantly changing so there’s always something fresh
Elements: Colorful murals, urban/gritty feel
Permit: Not required
Best time for pictures: Daytime
A beautiful location for an engagement session doesn’t mean a whole lot without the professional photographer to take the photos. If you’re planning and engagement session or proposal and haven’t found the perfect photographer for you and your partner’s needs, I’d love to hear from you!