The Evergreen Brickworks in Toronto's Don Valley offers exceptional opportunities for publication-worthy family photography. Late afternoon light creates that coveted backlit glow that elevates outdoor portraits from snapshots to editorial-style images worthy of magazine spreads.
Spring and fall provide ideal conditions for children's portraits, particularly in the meadows and fields surrounding the Brickworks. The setting sun creates beautiful rim lighting that adds warmth and dimension to outdoor photography. This natural backlighting technique—favored in lifestyle and editorial photography—gives portraits a luminous, professional quality.
Beyond the iconic brick buildings lies a network of nature trails winding through what was once a quarry. This backdrop offers versatility: industrial architecture meets natural landscape, providing varied settings within one location. The combination creates visual interest that works beautifully for both print and digital publications.
Important note: The Evergreen Brickworks requires a photography permit. This is something families need to arrange directly—photographers cannot book permits on behalf of clients. I'm happy to provide guidance on this process and help you plan timing to capture that perfect golden hour light.
The Brickworks delivers the trifecta of great outdoor photography: stunning natural light, diverse backgrounds, and accessible trails that work well for families with young children.
Location: Evergreen Brickworks 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, (416) 596-1495.
Keywords: children (8), Evergreen Brickworks, natural (10), outdoor (58), portrait (81). 1/400; f/4.0; ISO 250; 190.0 mm.