Your Ultimate Guide to a Professional Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot
Nestled within Scarborough Bluffs are 11 parks. All are idyllic locations, but for a professional Scarborough Bluffs photoshoot, our favorite has to be Bluffer’s Sand Beach.
Not the main beach at Bluffer’s Park though. Oh no! You want to stroll a little farther west to where the bluffs border the beach. You’ll be transported into a haven of tranquillity.
In our opinion, it’s the best-hidden gem in all of GTA (Greater Toronto Area).
Right at the base of the bluffs, the backdrop is a towering wall of ancient clay rock reaching a majestic height of 91m (300ft). The rough texture of the rocks blended with the softness of the sand provides the perfect elegance to capture timeless romantic photos.
It truly is mesmerizing.
Our Scarborough Bluffs photoshoot packages aren’t all on the beach. The different parks provide an array of scenery. If you want floral beauty in the background, we’d highly suggest either the Rosetta McClain Gardens or the Guild Park and Gardens.
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What to Bring to a Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot
A pair of flats is a must-have. Too much is a must-not! From the car park, it’s about a 10 to 15-minute walk to the beach. The location gets windy so layer up and work with the weather.
Loose-fitting clothing like long floaty dresses add to the characteristic charm of the location.
Our advice for timeless classics that ooze elegance is to dress in neutral tones.
For maximum opportunities, bring the props you feel would suit the style of photos you would like taken.
A picnic blanket, basket or straw hamper, and a couple of flutes and a bottle to stage a picnic on the beach.
Being family photographers, we can cater to couples with families, including those who want their dog to be part of their photoshoot. Scarborough Bluffs is an event best shared!
What to expect at a Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot
When you book a Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot with us, you’re guaranteed to get an experience to remember, and photos to ensure you never forget it.
From your initial consultation, we’ll have a chat with you about the types of photos that you’d love to be able to look back on with the fondest of memories. We’ll advise on you the times, the different locations, what’s at each, what to wear such as layering up in the winter months, and style tips to make your photos shine.
At Scarborough Bluffs, wedding photos and engagement photos are the star attraction. You may want a change of outfit too. There are changing facilities available at Bluffer’s Park and a few others.
To get the most photos, outfit changes are faster when you turn up with layers. For example, a crop top, blouse, and a blazer for the ladies, and for the gents, zip-off trousers with a shirt can give the formal look and then transform into a shorts and vest for a summer vibe.
Style changes bring emotional changes to your photos. It can go from romantic, capturing the bond between a couple, to the fun-loving style of dancing barefoot in the water along the shoreline.
The Best Time to Arrange a Professional Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot
The best time for photoshoots is golden hour, which is usually the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before the sun sets.
In our opinion, you won’t get a better time than early morning on a weekday. Before sunrise. And we say that because not only are sunset times busier, but the shots can be a hit or a miss.
The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. The bluffs face east and the height of them can block a lot of sunlight at sunset. You don’t always get that lovely warm glow.
To get more photos with less noise, and when you feel more relaxed with very few people (if any) around, speak to us about early morning photoshoots at Scarborough Bluffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Scarborough Bluffs photo permit?
Yes. All formal photography in City parks and recreational facilities in Toronto requires a photo permit. These can be obtained by calling Client Services on 416-396-7378. Opening hours are 8 am to 5 pm. This should be done well in advance, and your booking receipt should be brought with you to the photoshoot in case City staff ask. Keep in mind that permits only grant permission. They do not grant exclusive access to public spaces. As permits are allocated in 2-hour time slots, speak to us about the ideal times to book. In peak season and weekends, Scarborough Bluffs is busy. We can advise on the best time slots when there are minimal touristsand other photographers around.
Where to Park at Scarborough Bluffs?
The car park is located at 1 Brimley Road. Parking is free in the winter, and on weekdays between 6 am to 5 pm during the summer. Paid parking is at weekends and weekdays between 5 pm and 9 pm in the summer. Summer season starts on May 1st and ends on October 31st.
How far is Scarborough Bluffs from Toronto?
From Downtown Toronto, Scarborough Bluffs is around 17.5km away. Taking the Kingston Road route by car from Toronto is approximately a 30-minute drive.
Why is Scarborough Bluffs Closed?
Scarborough Bluffs is open all season and in all weather conditions. On the upper parts of the bluffs, the number of danger and no trespassing signs can give the impression that it’s closed. Visitors need to obey signage and stay on the trails. Beyond the safety fences is a very real danger of landslides. The farther up the bluffs you go, the more fenced-off areas there are. Danger signs are posted throughout the upper bluffs, and the no trespassing signs must be obeyed. Toronto bylaw enforcement officers can issue penalties up to $5,000. In severe weather storms, it is possible for access to be restricted for safety reasons. The lower bluffs are where its safest and conveniently, have the most scenic locations.
For an unforgettable Scarborough Bluffs Photoshoot, get in contact with Photography by Melike.