How to Have Stunning City Engagement Photos in Downtown Vancouver

I’m so excited to share Eileena and David’s city engagement photos. If you’ve seen their rainy engagement session (which you should check out) (I’ll add the link here when it’s published!), you know how beautiful and romantic that was, but this shoot was a whole different vibe! Think sleek city streets, rooftop views, and a dash of cool urban energy. This downtown Vancouver engagement session was total city chic, and I can’t wait to break down how it all came together!

Why City Engagement Photos Are So Unique

City engagement photos bring a completely different feel than a nature or rainy shoot. There’s something about the energy of a downtown setting that just feels alive. It’s all about the lines, the lights, and that beautiful, buzzing city vibe. Vancouver has some stunning spots, and for this session, we hit some of the best locations for an urban backdrop that screamed modern romance.

But here’s the thing: I love mixing it up! You don’t have to choose between a city shoot and a more nature-based session. We did both for Eileena and David—two locations, two dates, and completely different vibes. It’s all about what feels right for you as a couple, and I’m here for all of it. Want the quiet, intimate moments by the water or the bold, high-energy shots in the middle of the city? Let’s do both!

A Vancouver City Engagement Session

We kicked things off in Coal Harbour, one of my absolute favorite places in Vancouver. The mix of water views and sleek city vibes creates the perfect backdrop for an urban engagement session. The light was perfect, the streets were buzzing, and we got some seriously stunning shots of these two against the city’s skyline.

Then, we went up to a rooftop parkade in downtown Vancouver. This spot was a total game-changer. You get this incredible view of the city, and it adds such an edgy, dramatic feel to the photos. Trust me, nothing beats the vibe of a rooftop city shoot. And don’t even get me started on the classic car—David was lucky enough to borrow a relative’s vintage car for some fun shots. If you don’t have a cool car in your family, no worries! There are tons of places to rent one in Vancouver, and it’s always a fun prop to bring a personal touch to your photos.

Tips for Your City Engagement Photos

If you’re thinking about booking a city engagement session, here are a few tips to make it work for you:

1. Pick Locations That Mean Something to You: City engagement photos are all about personalizing the shoot. Maybe there’s a specific area in the city that’s special to you both—whether it’s where you met, where you had your first date, or a spot you just love hanging out in. In Vancouver, you’ve got endless options! From Coal Harbour to downtown rooftops, there’s a location for every couple.
2. Dress for the City: For an engagement session like this, I recommend dressing in a way that feels both stylish and comfortable. Whether you’re going for a high-fashion look or something more laid-back, just make sure it reflects you as a couple. And bring layers—you never know when the Vancouver weather will surprise you.
3. Get Playful and Embrace the Urban Vibe: The city offers so much potential for creativity. Take advantage of the cool architecture, the city lights, and all the fun, quirky spots around you. It’s all about having fun and showing off your personalities.

Make It a Date Night!

Here’s a pro tip—turn your engagement session into a full-on date night! After your shoot, why not head to one of Vancouver’s best restaurants for dinner or drinks? Here are some of my top for the best waterfront Restaurants in Vancouver:

• The Lobby Restaurant – Located at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, perfect for a romantic dinner with a waterfront view.
• Cardero’s – Right on the water, this spot has amazing seafood and great ambiance.
• Lift Bar Grill View – Perfect for a relaxed yet upscale dining experience with stunning views.
• Miku – If you’re into sushi, this place is a Vancouver gem. The food is incredible!

Grab a drink, have some dinner, and toast to your love while reflecting on the photos you just took. It’s a fun way to celebrate the moment and make it even more memorable!

Client Love

“If you are looking for a photographer, stop here. We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer for our engagement and wedding photos. Sarah is so personable and makes every experience so entertaining and enjoyable. My husband and I, are very awkward with taking photos and we typically just have a “hug and smile” photo. She made the whole experience so easy, comfortable and fun. My bridal party couldn’t get enough of Sarah and loved everything about her! Not to mention, her extreme talent, our photos turned out so beautiful, so much better than we could’ve ever imagined. She captured every single emotion in our photos and it told our story beautifully. We couldn’t recommend her enough.” – Eileena

Book your Vancouver Engagement Photographer!

Are you ready to book your engagement session? Whether you’re thinking about a city engagement photoshoot or something more laid-back, I’d love to help bring your vision to life! I know all the best spots in Vancouver and can help you create an experience that’s as unique as your love story! Contact me on my website, I can’t wait to hear from you! 

See more of my work on my Pinterest and portfolio! 

Check out more fun couple photoshoot ideas below!

Amanda and Neyvone’s downtown Vancouver engagement blog!!

Embracing the Rain: Fun Couple photoshoot Ideas in the Pacific Northwest

New York City Couple Photoshoot with a Destination Engagement Photographer