So you're graduating high school. A time to commemorate the last four years of your life, dress up to the nines, and have a ball of a time (because grad is like a ball? Get it? Ok, I'll stop) with your friends. Everything is all set in place - your date, your dress, where you're getting your hair and makeup done, all of it. Now you're trying to coordinate with friends where to have your pre-grad photo shoot.
Here is your time to shine. You refuse to succumb to another Scotsman's Hill or Peace Bridge grad photo shoot. You refuse to change your profile picture to the same photo that the rest of Calgary has. This city is bountiful in terms of beautiful photoshoot locations, so step off the basic train and take a detour to these gorgeous locations, guaranteed to have everyone commenting, "OMG where IS this?"
@laurageorge_designembedded via
1. Rundle Ruins // 623 12 Ave SE
Looking for a totally unique backdrop for your gorgeous dress? Hit up the ruins and the stone background will make you look classy af.
@elana.macauley2. Riley Park // 800 12 St NW
The stunning leaves and trees in this park are fairytale quality.
@marierayma3. Tom Campbell's Hill Natural Park // 25 St Georges Dr NE
If you're in the market for natural beauty with a view of the city, this is definitely the hidden gem you're looking for.
@vladishta4. North Glenmore Park // 7305 Crowchild Trail SW
Rivers, trees, and views that go on for miles. Is there anything better?
@jmstudiosyyc5. Devonian Gardens // 333 7 Avenue SW
Rain in the forecast for grad day? No worries, this gorgeous greenhouse has you covered.
@ngdonnang6. Battalion Park // 3017 Signal Hill Dr. SW
Views of the mountains? Check. Signal Hill is a prime location for the perfect golden hour photo shoot.
@kaleighbruijns7. Griffith Woods Park // 160 Discovery Ridge Blvd SW
This hidden gem is nestled in Discovery Ridge. Its towering pines and meandering river are a thing of beauty, plus there are some A+ bridges for some great shots.
@raraaphoto8. Reader Rock Garden // 311 25 Ave SE
Ever heard of The Secret Garden? Well it exists, and it's in Calgary. And yes, it's just as magical as you imagined.
@brianvantighem9. Heritage Park Historical Village // 1900 Heritage Dr SW
If you're looking for something a little more unique, this spot will provide you with a super neat old-timey backdrop.
@k_moons10. Weaselhead Flats // 37 St SW & 66 Ave SW
Mountain views, rivers, and trees abound, this is one of the most photogenic parks in Calgary.
@jerwinism11. Galleria Trees on Stephen Ave // 315 8 Ave SW
Much modern. Such hip. Seriously though, these cool architectural masterpieces will make your grad photos look so artsy.
@jean.cblfn12. The Blue Wall at Reid's // 710 17 Ave SW
Yes, this is just a wall. But isn't it the most beautiful shade of Tiffany blue you have ever seen? It will def make your crew's outfits POP.
@sara.tehranian13. Bowness Park
This stunning park looks straight out of a Nicholas Sparks novel. Ryan Gosling, where you at?
@yycfhw14. St. Patrick's Island Park // 8900 48 Ave NW
A bridge, cool architecture, and #views of downtown combine to make St. Patrick's Island Park a prime contender for your grad pics.
@kahusimonjnr15. Prince's Island Park
And finally, one of the finest parks our city has to offer. The large park offers plenty of different and unique areas for photo taking, and as such should definitely be in your top 5 faves.