Vancouver Island Vacation Family Photos
A playful end of our session moment at Golden Hour on Rathtrevor Beach
Vancouver Island is one of the best, and most popular vacation destinations in British Columbia. We are blessed with stunning natural beauty at every turn, along with a diverse collection of small towns, big cities, endless beaches, great entrepreneur businesses, and of course the local farming, wines & breweries creating craft products right here on Vancouver Island.
I grew up on Vancouver Island and then made some adventures to live in other provinces and cities for a while, but eventually the appeal of the island living brought us right back to my hometown, which changed subtly but noticably in 20 years. One of the best things that changed, is how much nature and the outdoors is now embraced as a part of everyday activity and education. I used to fear wandering out in the woods on my own, but now I sometimes do it even in total darkness to catch the magic night skies.
self portrait on a Nanaimo beach in May 2024 during the most incredible solar storm of Northern Lights.
Many hidden gem swimming holes or forest trails that we would explore as kids, have become official trails and parks around Nanaimo and Parksville, which has made many of them into great photo locations to share with my Clients. I still keep a rolling list of new parks and places to check out too, there are SO many options across the Island.
I hold a few nature spaces and beaches quietly in my pocket, with no names or tagging added to them, sharing only with selected clients usually from out of town to keep the unspoiled places hidden and part of the mystique of Vancouver Island that is so appealing, being out in a peaceful spot in nature, all on your own.
If you are into serene natural spaces or one of a kind spots, let’s chat about some location ideas and help plan a unique vacation memory for you and your family or partner while you are enjoying your trip.
Capture Your Family Vacation Memories on Vancouver Island
Playful, heartfelt portraits at Parksville & Rathtrevor Beach
If your family is visiting Vancouver Island this spring or summer, there’s no better time—or place—to capture some relaxed, joy-filled portraits together. The beaches of Parksville and Rathtrevor offer the perfect setting for vacation photos that feel real—the kind where little toes splash in the tide, sandy hands get gritty all over mom and dad, and I stand by to catch all the laughs, splashes and cringes.
Little ones are always encouraged to play and explore during your photos
Pipers Lagoon is a great spot for family portraits at Golden Hour
Gabriola Island is a great way to spend your afternoon or evening exploring the beaches, located a short 20 minute ferry from downtown Nanaimo.
Embrace the water, that’s why you came!
Even in the height of summer we can still find lush green places and rivers for serene photos
Playing in the sea is a favourite memory to capture
I am always eager for Sproat Lake vacation portraits too, or Long Lake in Nanaimo like this moment.
As a local family photographer based right here on Vancouver Island, I specialize in documenting moments that are equal parts candid, playful, and emotional. I work with families who value connection over perfection—those who want to remember the giggles, the snuggles, and those fleeting in-between moments while their kids are still little and are not too worried about posing and splash marks on clothes.
Beach Sessions are about getting the ocean in the shot.
In fact, i’ll often be right there in the water with you or for you to get the best light AND the water views.
Don’t Miss Golden Hour at Neck Point Park, Nanaimo
Everyone’s favorite location for family portraits is Neck Point Park in Nanaimo—a true gem for families and couples looking for stunning golden hour portraits, as long as you can manage a couple hills and staircases.
This oceanside park offers a mix of rugged shoreline, grassy flower fields, forested trails, and panoramic views that come alive with warm light in the hour before sunset. The way the sun filters through the trees creates a unique atmosphere with the variety of backgrounds available all in one spot. It’s a place that feels like pure Vancouver Island: peaceful, natural, and beautifully scenic.
High Tide and Golden Hour exploring at Neck Point Park, Nanaimo’s most popular photo destination
Golden Hour family portraits at Neck Point Park, Nanaimo
Neck Point Park Nanaimo Engagement Photos at Golden Hour
All love and all families are welcome, I offer a fun and respectful photo experience for everyone.
Pets are also welcome to join in, even the ones with feathers or scales, we just need to plan ahead as dogs are not allowed on most beaches from May - September, though I even know of a great dog friendly beach we can use.
Why Parksville & Rathtrevor Beach?
Playful Grandkid Portraits
Rathtrevor Beach and the coastal gems surrounding the Parksville area are absolutely stunning in the spring and summer and the best spots for big family group portraits. There are so many choices for great sunsets, amazing views, accessible boardwalks and beach access for all family members, and forest hideaways right alongside the ocean. I use many locations within a 15 minute drive of downtown Parksville.
Rathtrevor Beach timeless family photos
The blue really comes out when we photograph early morning or evening with softer light. The tide comes in really soft and the water is warm at Rathtrevor Beach. Parksville Beach is a similar experience.
At low tide, the beaches stretch out endlessly—perfect for barefoot exploring and little ones running free in the sand, after a few connected moments for group and family photos first. Early mornings are ideal for lighting and beating the crowds with softer light and water views. It’s ideal for creating those dreamy, sun-kissed images that truly reflect the serenity of the island.
My sessions are about catching the portraits that everyone is eager to have to update their walls, and then off we go for more candids, playful and exploring photos. Walking along the driftwood, playing in the sand, looking for sea creatures, and maybe even wading into the tide together. These are the moments that tell your family’s story—no stiff poses, just the joy of being together on vacation in a beautiful place.
As a nature lover I am well versed on much of the local the flora and fauna to help provide a little interactive experience for your kids while they explore.
A hidden gem beach in nearby Nanoose Bay that is usually empty! Perfect for unique explorer photos like these
Sunset is magical at this beach just 10 minutes from Resort Drive in Parksville.
What to Expect
Sessions are easy-going and child-led for younger families, so your kids can relax, explore, and have fun while still trying to get those few good posed moments too.
I’ll lead our adventure crew with energy and fun right from the start to guide you to the best light and locations, while keeping things natural and unforced.
Whether it’s a quiet morning snuggle with your toddler wrapped in a beach towel, or your older kids chasing waves and getting a little splash happy, we’ll create a gallery that feels both timeless and personal.
You can view some of my favorite family moments here:
vancouverislandphotography.com/portfolio/familymoments
Book Your Family Vacation Portraits
If you're planning a trip to Nanaimo, Parksville, Campbell River or anywhere on Vancouver Island, let’s set aside an hour to preserve your memories with some beautiful, heartfelt photographs. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or live nearby and want to mark this season with your family, pets or partner, I would love to capture your story in this magical place.
Spring and Summer sessions are booking now—weekends fill quickly, so I recommend reaching out soon to secure your ideal date for the summer.
Find all the packages and booking info here
Or send me a DM on Instagram or Facebook with any questions or for short notice requests.
Let’s make some beautiful memories together—barefoot and sunlit, with the sound of the ocean in the background.
