Strike a pose: Best spots to take wedding photos in Ottawa

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Thursday, 06 September 2012 16:53

The stunning Ottawa skyline provides the perfect backdrop for gorgeous wedding photos, whether visitors are from outlying towns or halfway around the world. Like so many Canadian cities, the nation's capital manages to seamlessly merge nature and modern construction, which can only be complemented by someone as beautiful as a blushing bride on her wedding day.

There are a number of hidden spots within the city that provide the best vantage points for historical buildings like Parliament of the National Art Gallery, while areas along the Rideau Canal are, of course, prime spots to take pre- and post-wedding photos.

Here are the best places to take photos in Ottawa and the surrounding regions:

The Fairmont Chateau Laurier

The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is more like a castle than a luxurious hotel, and as anyone who's stayed in Ottawa accommodations can attest, it is the focal point of the Rideau Canal. Throughout the grounds, wedding photographers will feel like a kid in a candy store as they find intricately designed sculptures and ornate hallways just begging to be captured with a bride in the foreground.

In a recent photo shoot by Ottawa Life Magazine, a model was taken to the Fairmont Chateau Laurier's  balcony, which overlooks Parliament. Between the structure and the bride are rows of plush trees, which will undoubtedly turn a fiery red during the autumn months.

The Rideau Canal

While there are numerous spots along the Rideau Canal where brides and grooms-to-be can take their wedding photos, couples should keep in mind the time of day before they plan to take their photo. During the late afternoon, the sun creates a perfect, mirror-like reflection on the waterway, and a professional photographer can attach a telephoto lens to their camera to capture a special moment from across the way - an intimate moment that will be reflected in the water.

Gatineau Park

With several pathways and trails throughout Gatineau Park, this gorgeous reserve would be a lovely place to take photos with the entire wedding court. During the fall, brides may want to dress their maids in colours that will pop out against the reds, oranges and yellows - perhaps a mint green or even pale pink. Of course, the best hue is reserved for the newlywed, who will be dressed in a stunning shade of white.