the best indoor locations for a rainy day photoshoot in Ottawa

Rainy days can be a bit of a bummer, especially if you had plans for an outdoor photoshoot. But don’t let a little rain ruin your day! Ottawa has plenty of indoor locations that can serve as excellent backdrops for your photoshoot, rain or shine. Here are some of the best indoor locations for a rainy day photoshoot in Ottawa:

* means no permit/reservation/ticket required;

– means permit/reservation/ticket required;

+ means good for engagement shoot, but no wedding shoot if your reception is not here

  • National Gallery of Canada

    The National Gallery of Canada is a great option for a rainy day photoshoot. The gallery’s modern and sleek interior offers plenty of natural light, making it a great place to capture some stunning portraits or artistic shots. You could also explore the various exhibits for some unique and interesting shots.

  • Byward Market*

    The Byward Market is a bustling indoor market that offers plenty of photo opportunities, even on a rainy day. With its colorful stalls, unique shops, and diverse crowds, you’re sure to find some interesting subjects to capture. You could use the market’s various angles and lines to create some stunning shots.

  • The Ottawa Art Gallery*

    The Ottawa Art Gallery is a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of local and national artists. The gallery’s minimalist design and stunning artwork make it a great backdrop for your photoshoot. You could use the artwork as a unique and interesting element in your shots.

  • The Canadian Museum of Nature

    The Canadian Museum of Nature is a beautiful and historic building that houses a variety of exhibits on natural history. With its stunning architecture and unique exhibits, it’s a great place to capture some one-of-a-kind photos. You could use the museum’s various spaces to create some stunning portraits or artistic shots.

  • The Canadian Museum of History

    The Canadian Museum of History is located in Gatineau, just across the Ottawa River, and it’s a beautiful building that offers a great backdrop for your photoshoot. The museum’s exhibits showcase the history and culture of Canada and its people, making it a great place to capture some unique and interesting shots.



  • The Fairmont Château Laurier+

    The Fairmont Château Laurier is a historic hotel that’s been a landmark in Ottawa for over a century. With its grand architecture and elegant décor, it’s a great place to capture some timeless and classic shots. You could use the hotel’s various spaces, such as the lobby or the grand staircase, to create some stunning portraits or group shots.

  • The National Arts Centre*

    The National Arts Centre is a striking performing arts venue nestled in the heart of Ottawa. This modern architectural masterpiece features ample natural light streaming in from its large glass windows, making it an ideal location for capturing bright and airy indoor shots. Not only that, but the venue also boasts an exceptional view of the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier Hotel, which serves as a stunning backdrop for outdoor shots on a rainy day.

  • Aquatopia

    Aquatopia is an indoor water garden near Ottawa, featuring tropical plants, and waterfalls. Its vibrant setting and natural lighting make it an excellent location for a unique and memorable rainy day photoshoot.

Basically, Ottawa has tons of cool places to take pics inside when it’s raining. You can hit up museums, art galleries, cafes, or hotels – there’s plenty of options! And if you’re not sure where to go, we’ve got your back with some recommendations. But don’t forget, sometimes your wedding spot or even your own crib could make for a super dope and personalized shoot. So don’t let a little rain put a damper on your photo game – get creative and snap those unforgettable moments!