Pregnant woman on couch surrounded by three dogs and toddler in bright living room.
Black and white close-up of pregnant belly with hand gently resting on it against sofa.

 

Location Guide


Welcome! Let's make your photo session a little easier for you!

 

Smiling woman in overalls playing with twin babies under white canopy outdoors.

I am so excited to start planning your session with you. Choosing a location can feel overwhelming sometimes. I want to gently remind you that your photos were never about the place.


They’re about connection.

They’re about the way your child reaches for you.

The way you laugh together.

The quiet, in-between moments that matter most.


This guide is here to offer inspiration, but you are never limited to it. Some of the most meaningful sessions happen in places that already hold pieces of your life like your home, your routines, your favourite little places to go together.


If there’s somewhere that feels like you, or something you love doing together, I would be honored to capture it.


A few ideas to consider:

  • Your home or cottage
  • A favorite coffee or ice cream stop
  • Sand dunes
  • Flower fields
  • Animal farms
  • Pizza for the family in a field


If you’re drawn to something more traditional, you’ll find curated options as you continue through the guide.


Warm regards,

Katie.

Black and white photo of classical stone columns and archway garden structure surrounded by trees.

THE GUILD INN ESTATE

 

Beach Locations

 

Black and white photo of pregnant blonde woman facing ocean with wind-blown hair.

Courtice Beach


This beach is a mixture of sand and rocks. It has field and greenery vibes with the option of beach as well.

Travel Fee: $30

Couple embracing on sandy dunes under vast blue sky in minimalist landscape.

sandbanks


Best in the off season due to being busy from the public. Beautiful sand dunes, with greenery. Beautiful beaches.

Travel Fee: $75

Couple walking barefoot along shoreline, woman in white dress leaving footprints in sand.

cobourg beach


Best in the off season (May, June, Sept) due to being busy from the public.  Beautiful sand, bigger beach.

Travel Fee: $35

Couple holding hands walking toward beach through golden trees in warm sunlight.

COBOURG WEST BEACH


Hidden gem. Board walk through greenery with a short walk to the beach.

Travel Fee: $35

Romantic couple sitting on a sandy beach blanket by the water, man playing guitar at golden hour.

BUCKHORN BEACH


Smaller beach area. More private, not as busy. Tall trees around the lake makes it stunning.

No Travel Fee

Pregnant woman in white dress holds hands with partner and child walking along a rocky lakeside beach at sunset.

NEWCASTLE BEACH


Rocky beach. Less busy most days. Stunning sunset view.


Travel Fee: $30

 

Greenery Locations

 

Family of four standing on a wooden overlook surrounded by lush green countryside on a cloudy day.

wINDY RIDE CONSERVATION AREA


10 minute walk with one hill. Beautiful look out views and field vibes. Very private and quiet.

No Travel Fee

Couple sharing a kiss in a golden field of tall grass with a forested hill and blue sky behind them.

HAROLD TOWN CONSERVATION AREA


Different trails to walk on. Lots of trees and greenery.


No Travel Fee

Couple walking hand in hand along a scenic autumn path beside a calm pond with a gazebo in the background.

JACKSON PARK PETERBOROUGH


Willow tree with a bridge. Not as many fall colours however beautiful greenery.


No Travel Fee

Couple relaxing on a motorboat on a calm lake surrounded by lush green trees on an overcast day.

LAKEFIELD BOAT

LAUNCH


I deal  for a boat, canoe, kayaks etc. Beautiful tree line across the lake and sunset. There are docks to walk too.

No Travel Fee

 

City Locations

 

Bride in a full white gown and groom in a black tuxedo posing in front of a historic building with flags.

cobourg town hall


Travel Fee: $35

Couple holding hands crossing a charming small-town street lined with historic brick storefronts.

port Perry


Travel Fee: $30

Black and white photo of a couple holding hands running across a street in a historic downtown area.

port Hope


Travel Fee: $35

A couple stands near a busy urban street as a cyclist blurs past in front of a luxury hotel.

toronto


Travel Fee: $150

Peterborough Studio


My studio is offered to all sessions at no additional cost! It is a cozy space with a few options for sets. We can do a simple white backdrop or have more of a lifestyle session with couches and plants.

 

Winter Locations

 

A couple sits together on a snowy bench overlooking a vast winter landscape with bare trees.

WINDY RIDGE CONSERVATION AREA


There is the option of a small hike to the look out or we can stay within the field by the parking lot.

No Travel Fee

Black and white photo of a couple sharing a tender kiss in a snowy winter forest setting.

HAROLD TOWN CONSERVATION AREA


Lots of trees and walking trails.


No Travel Fee

A couple shares a romantic kiss on a frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered trees at sunset.

LAKEFIELD SKATING OVAL


I love the way the trees line the skating rink at this location.


No Travel Fee

A couple embraces romantically among snow-covered pine trees in a peaceful winter wonderland setting.

my home - lakefield


This is in my driveway at home!


No Travel Fee

 

Planning tips & FAQ

What should we wear?

My editing style leans a little warmer, so I always recommend sticking to neutral tones (think creams, beiges, soft browns, muted greens, light greys and whites). These colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you rather than the outfit.

I’d also suggest avoiding busy patterns, large logos, or super bright colors, as they can be a bit distracting in photos. Simple, timeless pieces always work best! If you’re coordinating with others, aim for outfits that complement each other rather than match exactly.

Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in—that always shines through in your photos.

When’s the best time for taking photos?

This question all depends on how you would like your photo to look. If you would like a dreamy sunset, the an hour before sunset is perfect for full sessions. If you are okay with a harsher sun, then during the day is for you! This just makes your photo have a bit more contrast with the shadows. I always try to look for shade for variety! Also, please keep in mind nap schedules and bed time. Happy children is always a goal (if you have some!)

We are awkward! What should we do?

I promise you are not alone in feeling this way. Almost every couple tells me they’re awkward before their session! It is also not normal to be followed by a camera!

The good news is… you don’t need to know what to do at all. That’s my job! I’ll guide you through the entire session with simple prompts and natural movements so you’re never left wondering where to stand or what to do with your hands.

I follow your energy! Working with families and children in my past career has definitely helped me learn to read people. Whether we lean more into calm, quiet moments or more energy and movement!

All you need to do is show up, be yourselves, and trust me. I’ve got you 🤍

What should we pack?

I love to do little activities within your full session! We will plan this in advance. Ideas for families are going into the water, bubbles, airplanes, kites etc. Ideas for couples could be pizza, drinks, picnics etc.

 

For more inspiration and ideas, check out my Instagram!

 

 

@katieshawphotography_