The Best Spring Blossom Locations for Photography in Ottawa

After months of cold and snow, one of the first signs of fair weather in Ottawa are the blossoming trees. They’re one of the most stunning backdrops for outdoor photography this time of year and perfect for engagements sessions, wedding portraits, maternity session, or family portraits. Big bold Magnolia blooms, pink crabapples, and purple lilacs add bursts of colour to the background.

Each spring photographers begin what is affectionately called “blossom watch”. The date of the blooms arrival changes from year to year as the season arrives according to mother nature’s whims. It’s best to communicate with your photographer and keep an eye on the long range forecast to get a sense of when exactly to time your session.

Dominion Arboretum

The Dominion Arboretum is the most popular option for spring blossom photography in Ottawa.

The magnolias bloom first and quickly. You’ll need to book your session when the weather warms and be flexible about timing the session as the blossoms arrive quickly in early May and wilt not long after. Expect to run into other photographers and sessions during this time. Booking your session on a weekday helps as it may be somewhat quieter than the weekend.

The crabapples and other blossoming trees and bushes last longer during May and are the most likely to be available during your session if you’re getting spring engagement photos or wedding photos done in the Arboretum. These blooms are plentiful and throughout the winding pathways of the park.

Central Experimental Farm Ornamental Gardens

Across the street from the Arboretum you’ll find the Ornamental Gardens, which also boast a plethora of blossoming trees in the springtime. The crabapple trees are absolutely gorgeous in May and later that month you’ll also find some lilacs which smell as good as they look. The trellised archways, winding rock garden pathways, and established trees also make for good backdrops once you’ve had photos taken with the blossoms.

The Rockeries

The Rockcliffe Rockeries is a hidden gem for blossoms in the spring. While the Arboretum is often much busier when spring blossoms are at their peak, the Rockeries are less frequented, giving you a quieter location for photos. There are plenty of crab apple trees that blossom in the springtime there. The fountain, ruins and terraced landscape nearby are a good option afterwards to give you more variety in your session.