There’s something about Kelso Conservation Area that just hits different.
Maybe it’s the wide open spaces, the calm water, or how the sun dips behind the hills in the most cinematic way — whatever it is, it’s become one of my favourite places to photograph couples. Especially couples like Kyla and Riley, who showed up ready to have fun, get wet, and make the most of golden hour.
Nature, Light, and Letting Go
We started the session with a chill walk through the wooded trails and grassy spots near the water. Kyla and Riley were instantly relaxed — no stiff poses, no stress, just two people genuinely enjoying time together. That’s when the magic happens.
As the sun started to dip, I mentioned the lake. Half-jokingly, I said something like, “We could always go in the water if you’re up for it…” and Kyla didn’t even blink. She was in.
The Moment That Sparked a Trend
Kyla kicked off her shoes and walked right into the lake, holding Riley’s hand, the sun glowing behind them. It was spontaneous. Unscripted. And absolutely stunning. The light, the water, the movement — it created something really special. That was a first for me, but what I didn’t expect was how much it would inspire other couples.
Since that session, so many clients have told me they saw those photos and wanted to do the same. One perfect example? Christine & Cesar’s Woodbine Beach sunrise session, where they waded into the lake as the sun came up. Same energy. Different backdrop. Still iconic.
Why Kelso Conservation Area Is a Hidden Gem
Just outside Toronto, Kelso has it all — trails, forest, cliffs, and that glowing lakeside light in the evening. It’s never too crowded, there’s space to explore, and whether you want cozy forest photos or a full adventure session, this place delivers every time.
Want more Kelso inspiration?
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Thinking of Your Own Kelso Session?
Let’s make it yours. Whether you want to hike, chill by the water, or maybe even dip your toes in — I’m here for all of it. Bring your sneakers, bring your person, and let’s tell your story with some damn good light.
📍 Location: Kelso Conservation Area
📸 Photographer: Yours truly
🌅 Vibe: Romantic, playful, adventurous
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Guys, we discovered another gem of a location for engagement shoots! Kelso Conservation Area! Ahhhh we are so excited to share the photos!! Marianne and Adam chose Kelso Conservation Area for their fall engagement shoot and wow, was it amazing! We’ve actually shot at Kelso Conservation Area a couple of years back, and while we knew it’s an awesome spot for shoots, we forgot just how awesome it is! Located near Milton, Ontario, the park is huge and is centred around Lake Kelso, where in the summer you can not only swim there, but also rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. You can even reserve campsites in the summer months, and go skiing and snowboard in the winter. But the fall months at Kelso…Wow. Marianne and Adam, you guys chose well!
Shooting at an abandoned location of some sorts has been on the bucket list for Diego and I for quite some time. There is just something so eery and fun at the same time about abandoned locations - maybe it’s all the colourful graffiti that often covers the walls of abandoned places, or the bursts of light that come through the broken windows and cracks in the ceilings, but whatever it is, we saw the potential of creating some epic shots in an abandoned place and we couldn’t wait for an adventurous couple to take us up on the idea of shooting their engagement photos at such a spot. Jenn and Arvin were just that couple!
Tips on how to choose your location and date, what to wear and not wear, what to bring, things to consider, and what to expect from your engagement session.