Whether you’re here on vacation for the first time, a repeat visitor, or a local, getting family photos done to capture your moments can make your memories last forever.

Here are some of the best places to go to when you’re scouting for the perfect place to take that frame-worthy pic in the Kelowna area!


Kalamalka Lake

Known for its vibrant green colour in the summer, this lake provides a stunning backdrop. This lake turns turquoise in the summer season because it is a marl lake - the limestone in the lake forms crystals in the warm weather, and these crystals reflect the sunlight in a way that makes the lake look like a tropical paradise.

Photo from 2022 'Explore more this Spring' production

Kaloya Regional Park. Photo by: Nic Collar Film

There are many parks that surround Kalamalka Lake including Kaloya Regional Park in Lake Country, Kekuli Bay Provincial Park, and Kalamakla Lake Provincial on the north end of the lake. As well the Okanagan Rail Trail hugs the west side of the entire lake. Kalamalka Provincial Park is one of our favourite parks, the park is home to many trails. Take a hike with your family through the nature walks on the east side of the lake and snap a few pics while strolling through some of the most beautiful trees in the valley.

Bringing your pet for your portrait sessions? There is a pet-friendly beach on the eastern end of Cosens Beach. However, owners are asked to keep their dogs on leash except for the designated beach area as there are rattlesnakes and other wildlife at the park.

Photo series in partnership with Okanagan Rail Trail

Okanagan Rail Trail along Kalamalka Lake

If you’re planning a day trip, there are several places to park but we recommend the Twin Gate Parking Lot as that has the easiest access to the popular viewpoints.


Knox Mountain

Just minutes away from Downtown Kelowna, you will often find families taking in the scenery at the summit of Knox Mountain at 300m above the lake.

During the frost-free months, visitors can park their vehicles just minutes away from the lookout. From there, you can see all the way up Okanagan Lake past Fintry towards Vernon when you’re looking north, while spectacular views of the city and the Bennett Bridge await you when you are looking south.

Photo at Knox Mountain - Wesla & Son

Another option is to take photos on the trails. When we had maternity photos taken, we parked on Royal View Drive, and it was just short walk to the lower hiking trails. Whether you are looking for a location for a maternity shoot or a family shoot with small children, the close proximity to the trails from your vehicle can make the photography session go smoother.


Myra Canyon Trestles

The 40-minute drive to Myra Canyon Trestles portion of the Kettle Valley Railway is worth your while if you’re looking for some impressive views and landmarks. With multiple tunnels and trestle bridges along the trail, you are bound to find a backdrop to suit your photography style.

Be prepared to travel on a gravel road, although most vehicles are able to make it up to the canyon during the summer months, and there is a large parking lot right at the entrance.

Myra Canyon

You can bring your bike or rent a bike if you’re hoping to take some action photos. You can also stroll through the tunnels and on the trestles at your leisure.


Raymer Bay Regional Park

Raymer Bay is a West Kelowna hidden gem where you can get some stunning lakeside photos with Downtown Kelowna in the background. If you are including children in your photos, check out the playground with see-saws and swings that can accommodate kids of all ages.

After capturing a fun shot of the kids racing down the slides, head down to the beach and snap a pic of the family playing on the water’s edge with the Bennett Bridge in the distance.

Photo at Raymer Bay - Wesla, Duane and Kids

Visitors to this park can arrive by car or by boat. There are several public buoys near the beach, and there is also a parking lot just off of Westside Road.


Paynter’s Fruit Market

Whether there are blossoms or fruits on the trees - if you’re looking for a farm scene for your photo shoot, look no further then Paynter's Fruit Market.

During the spring, take a wander through this westside orchard and take in the sweet smells of the blossoms.

In the summer and fall, nothing quite says that you were in the Okanagan Valley like having fresh fruit in the background of your family photo shoot! You can even organize a u-pick photo shoot for some fun and interactive shots with the family.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Wesla English (@weslawong)

The bonus part is, you will also have the chance to take home some tasty souvenirs after your photo session!