Photography tips with Parks Canada
From awe-inspiring landscapes to diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage, there’s beauty around every corner at Parks Canada. Use these photography tips to capture unforgettable moments — safely, respectfully, and sustainably.
5 tips to help you capture great photos
1. Identify your subject
Focus on what you want to highlight—whether it’s a mountain peak, a bird, or an historic site—and make it the star of your shot.
2. Use the rule of thirds
Divide your image into thirds to create a balanced composition.
3. Look for natural symmetry
Nature is full of symmetry—reflections in lakes, rows of trees, or mountain ridges. Use these elements to create visually striking images.
4. Try new perspectives
Change your angle. Try shooting from ground level or through natural frames like branches or arches for a fresh take.
5. Use natural light
Early morning and late afternoon light (the golden hours) add warmth and depth to your photos. Avoid harsh midday sun when possible.
Photography tips video
See these tips in action at Kluane National Park.
Transcript
[Parks Canada Beaver Logo]
[No narration nor dialogue]
[Text: 5 photos tips with ParksLife]
[A lake seen from a boat]
[Text: In Kluane National Park and Rerserve]
[A young man is taking pictures on a lake]
[Eva is taking pictures on a lake]
[Text: 1 Identify your subject]
[A buoy floating on a lake with mountains in the background]
[Text: and make it stand out]
[A red buoy]
[A picture of the red buoy with mountains in the background]
[A picture of a plant on a rocky beach illuminated by the sun]
[A picture of Eva on a mountain looking at the landscape]
[Text: 2 Compose your image with the rule of third]
[Snowy mountains]
[A picture of Kim of hiking in the mountains]
[Text: and on their intersections]
[Text: 3 Search for natural symmetry effects]
[A forest and mountains refelected in a lake]
[Pictures showing exemples of natural symmetry]
[Text: 4 Try new perspectives]
[A young man is taking pictures in the mountains]
[Close up shot of alpine flowers]
[Examples of pictures taken close to the ground or to the water]
[Text: 5 Use natural light conditions to your advantage]
[Timelapses of the clouds over a mountain]
[Timelapse of the clouds over a mountain]
[Snowy mountains seen from the sky]
[Parks Canada Logo]
[Text: Her Majesty the Queen in Rights of Canada, Represented by Parks Canada]
[Canada logo]
Give wildlife space
When taking pictures, make sure you follow our top tips to respect wildlife and stay safe. By being discrete and respectful of their space, you help ensure the survival of wildlife and your own safety.
With the right gear like binoculars, a telephoto lens, or even your phone, you can capture stunning wildlife photos from a safe and respectful distance.
- Never take photos of people or selfies with wildlife in the background
- Stay at least 30 m (3 buses) away from large animals such as deer, moose and elk, and 100 m (10 buses) away from bears, wolves, coyotes and cougars
- Don’t approach wildlife nor dens and don’t allow wildlife to approach you — if your presence causes them to move, you are too close
Know the rules before you go
No drones
Drones are prohibited in all Parks Canada locations to prevent disturbance to wildlife, disruption of their natural behaviors, and the risk of injury.
Other rules and guidelines
Each Parks Canada location may have specific photography guidelines for visitors and professionals. All commercial filming and photography activities are subject to business licensing and permits.
Before your visit, check the website of the destination you’re heading to for the most up-to-date information, and comply with the rules and guidelines meant to protect those special places. - Date modified :