Find Vintage Photoshoot locations for rent in Vancouver, Canada

About Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a beautiful city located on the western coast of Canada, surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It has a diverse population, with over 60% of its residents born outside of Canada, and is known for its unique blend of cultures that make up its vibrant atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle.

Vancouver is the perfect combination of urban and rural: a vibrant city of high-rise buildings nestled amidst the beautiful Coastal Mountains. With breathtaking views and award-winning cultural and historical attractions, it’s easy to see why many creatives and storytellers travel to the city for content creation. Whether you want to shoot among towering mountains or bustling downtown streets, there's something for every mood or vision.

For those looking to capture vintage vibes, Vancouver also has hidden gems worth exploring. From quaint coffee shops and decades-old architecture that still stands today to storefronts selling unique antiques and abandoned industrial sites that exude an undeniable old-school charm, this Canadian city offers photographers one-of-a-kind photoshoot locations that will bring a classic vibe to their images. Whether you're shooting digitally or using vintage cameras from previous eras — like medium format film cameras or instant cameras — Vancouver is a great place for creating timeless visuals with a unique flavor.

Vintage Photoshoot Options in Vancouver

• Equipment Rentals
  Equipment rentals are essential for any photo shoot, and many companies in Vancouver offer various types of equipment. From cameras to lenses, flashes, and tripods, these vendors have it all. They also provide accessories such as lighting equipment and backdrops to help create the perfect vintage look.
  
  
• Makeup and Hairstyle
  Hair and makeup can make or break a photo shoot, so it is important to hire experienced professionals to get the desired look. Professional makeup artists and hair stylists will ensure your models are camera-ready and have the perfect retro style. From dramatic cat-eye liners to voluminous curls, these professionals will also know how to create a classic vintage look with a modern flair.
  
  
• Decorations & Props
  Decorations and props are vital elements of any photo shoot and can help enhance the overall atmosphere. Vintage-themed decorations such as old-fashioned furniture, vintage clothing, antiques, paintings, and prints will help bring the desired setting to life, while props like cameras or typewriters add an extra layer of authenticity. Many prop rental stores in Vancouver offer an extensive selection of items to make your photoshoot unique.

Vintage Photoshoot Vendors in Vancouver

• Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals Inc
  Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals Inc. has been a Canadian family-run business for generations, combining its vast knowledge and expertise with friendly, top-of-the-line services. With a background in technical crafts such as photography, audio recording, and editing, Lorne expanded his services to join a national distributor of high-end cinematography equipment. His experience has helped equip film crews, production companies, TV stations, educational institutions, and individuals across Western Canada with the best tools to express their creative ideas.
  
  
• Nature's Beauty Makeup & Hair
  Sheena Lee is an award-winning makeup artist and hairstylist who uses all-natural, cruelty-free products to create looks that rival any professional makeup and hair service. Based in Vancouver, BC, Sheena has been providing services for bridal, fashion, film, television, and print media since 2009. Her artistic flair was honed by the 15 years she spent as a master control operator and news editor at stations in Vancouver, Victoria, and Toronto. This experience allows her to work quickly and precisely with a calm demeanor to produce stunning results.
  
  
• Bohemia Gallery Inc.
  Bohemia Gallery Inc., a one-of-a-kind vintage store, was opened in 2004 by Jann and her daughter Ashlee. With over 3000 square feet of retail space spread across two floors, the store offers an eclectic mix of retro and vintage clothing and accessories for both men and women. Boasting an impressive collection of unique pieces that range from 50s cocktail dresses to 60s metallics, Bohemia Gallery Inc. is the place to find everything needed to dress like a classic movie star during Hollywood's golden era. Their vast assortment stands apart due to its array of colors, patterns, and styles that promise to transport customers back in time with a single purchase.

Pros and Cons of Vintage Photoshoots in Vancouver

Vintage photoshoots are a popular trend in the photography industry. With its eclectic mix of old and new, Vancouver offers plenty of unique vintage locations and backdrops to bring your photos to life. However, like any photo shoot, there are advantages and disadvantages when organizing a vintage photoshoot in Vancouver.

Advantages

• From historical locations to industrial warehouses, there is no shortage of interesting vintage spaces in Vancouver that can provide the perfect backdrop for your photoshoot.
  
  
• Vintage settings offer greater flexibility than more modern or traditional venues. They can adapt to different types of photoshoots, such as fashion, portrait, and product photography.
  
  
• With many public transportation options in downtown Vancouver, it’s easy for everyone involved in the photo shoot to reach the vintage location quickly and conveniently.

Disadvantages

• While many great vintage spots are scattered throughout the city, some may require special permits before you can use them for a photoshoot.
  
  
• Since some vintage locations don't have interior access, bad weather can put a damper on the shoot plans.
  
  
• If you're shooting near busy streets or popular tourist destinations, this could disrupt your photo session with unexpected traffic noise or unwanted bystanders.

Tips on How to Organize Vintage Photoshoots in Vancouver

Photographing vintage scenes in a unique and historical setting can be an inspiring experience for any photographer. Here are some tips to help organize the perfect vintage photoshoot in the beautiful city of Vancouver.

• Scout out vintage locations: Before scheduling a shoot, take time and locate the best possible sites with interesting backdrops. Do your research and visit each location beforehand to get an idea of which one will provide the perfect setting for your photos.
  
  
• Utilize props and costumes for extra style: Many vintage photoshoots can benefit from additional props or costumes to add extra flair and creativity to the scene. Consider what items would best fit your shoot's theme and arrange them accordingly before arriving at the shooting location.
  
  
• Work with natural lighting conditions when possible: When photographing outdoors, pay attention to how lighting changes throughout different times of the day, as it can drastically affect how your photos turn out. Additionally, ensure you have all necessary equipment like reflectors and diffusers on hand to help create desirable shadows or soften harsh light sources.
  
  
• Prepare the models: Make sure they arrive prepared with makeup and wardrobe items ready on-site (if applicable) so they don’t have to rush around trying to get ready during the shoot – no one wants a delayed start. Also, small details like jewelry or accessories can help enhance a look, so consider bringing them for added creativity.

Famous Locations in Vancouver

• VanDusen Botanical Garden
  VanDusen Botanical Garden is a great place to explore and enjoy nature's beauty in Canada's spectacular BC climate. Situated within easy reach of downtown, the garden is a convenient spot to spend an afternoon. Throughout the year, there's always something blooming, from cherry trees and rhododendrons in spring and roses and hydrangeas in summer to Japanese maples, ginkgo trees, and rudbeckia in fall. No matter the season, visiting VanDusen Botanical Garden will lift your spirits with its stunning floral displays.
  
  
• Wreck Beach
  Wreck Beach is nothing short of spectacular. Not only does it stretch out for a full 4.8 miles, but its naturist status is also the envy of beaches throughout the continent. The amazing views here are made even better by the strong sense of community preserved by the Wreck Beach Preservation Society, and they offer many events such as Skinny Dip Day, Bare Buns Run, and feature spa/pool nights that anyone can attend. Whether you're looking to soak up some sun or get involved in the active nudist society there, Wreck Beach should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
  
  
• Gastown
  Gastown is one of the most unique districts in Vancouver. With its cobblestone streets and stunning Victorian heritage buildings, Gastown is a must-see spot for anyone visiting the city. It all started in 1867 when John Deighton—nicknamed "Gassy Jack"—arrived in the area and set up shop; hence, Gassy's Town, or Gastown. The locals even set up a statue of the man himself in Maple Tree Square, so tourists can stop by to snap some pics with Gassy Jack.