Cara & Clarke’s Summer Engagement Session at Sheila McKee Park
As an engagement photographer in Ottawa, I’m always drawn to sessions that feel relaxed, natural, and full of genuine connection. Cara and Clarke’s engagement session at Sheila McKee Park had all of that and more.
From the moment we met, these two were a dream to photograph. They were easygoing, bubbly, and warm, and you could feel their love for each other in every small moment. It was one of those summer evenings where the air feels soft and the light settles in gently over the water, and the whole setting matched their energy perfectly.
Why Sheila McKee Park Was the Perfect Setting
Sheila McKee Park is one of my favourite hidden gems for Ottawa engagement photos. It feels secluded, which makes the whole experience more comfortable and intimate. To reach the water, you walk through a quiet forest trail. Even though we did not use the forest for this session, it is a spot I often return to for soft, woodsy portraits.
Once you reach the water, the pebble beach and tall trees create a peaceful backdrop. Even though you do not get a direct sunset here, the light is beautifully even, which means every photo feels clean, soft, and consistent from start to finish. Sessions by the water here always have a calm, warm atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
A Session Filled with Warmth, Movement, and Fun
Cara and Clarke brought a few outfits, which is always a great idea on warm summer evenings. Each look fit the setting perfectly, especially once they stepped into the water. The movement, the playful energy, and the way the colors of their outfits worked with the landscape made the photos feel effortless.
I guided them through natural, movement based posing, starting with walking prompts to help everyone settle in.
And of course, they brought champagne to celebrate, which always adds a fun and personal touch.
Why I Loved This Session
Everything about this evening felt right. A kind and joyful couple, warm weather, glowing soft light, and a beautiful location that reflects exactly the type of summer engagement photography I love to create. Relaxed, natural, connection focused, and rooted in the beauty of the outdoors.
If you are dreaming of an engagement session that feels real and warm, Sheila McKee Park is a wonderful place for it.
If you are planning your engagement photos and love the idea of a warm summer session by the water, I would love to photograph your story. I am based in Ottawa, and I happily travel across Canada and worldwide for couples who want natural, heartfelt photography in beautiful locations.
Ready to plan your engagement session? Let’s chat.
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