Christmas portraits don't have to mean traditional red and green backdrops or studio settings. This adventurous family embraced urban creativity by choosing the Underpass Skatepark at 29 Lower River Street for their holiday session. The vibrant graffiti murals provided an explosion of color and contemporary edge that makes these Christmas photos stand out from conventional holiday cards. It's a bold choice that perfectly reflects their family's personality—modern, fun-loving, and willing to do something different to create memorable portraits.
This session took place on the first truly frigid day of the season, testing everyone's commitment to great photography. Yet this wonderful family rose to the challenge brilliantly, removing their coats for each photograph and somehow managing to look completely unbothered by the biting cold. Their genuine smiles and relaxed demeanor reveal no hint of the freezing temperatures—a testament to their dedication and positive attitude. Those brief moments between shots when coats went back on provided welcome warmth, but when the camera was ready, they delivered beautifully every single time.
The Underpass Park location offers something truly unique for Toronto family photography—protected from precipitation while providing industrial-chic architecture and constantly evolving street art. The colorful graffiti creates dynamic, eye-catching backgrounds that add energy and personality to portraits without overwhelming the subjects. For families seeking Christmas photos that break the mold while still capturing genuine connection and holiday joy, this urban setting delivers impact. The result is a collection of images as unique and memorable as the family themselves—holiday portraits with edge, character, and undeniable Toronto spirit.
Location: Underpass Skate Park, Lower River Street, Toronto, ON.
Keywords: downtown (27), family (58), kids (42), parents (24), portrait (81). 1/200; f/5.6; ISO 4000; 55.0 mm.