The Best Saskatoon Spots for Winter Photography
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just snapping photos on your phone, Saskatoon offers countless opportunities to capture the season’s beauty. Here are my top spots for winter photography and a few tips to make your shots shine.
Frost-Covered Bridges
Saskatoon’s iconic bridges are stunning year-round, but they take on a new charm in winter. The Traffic Bridge stands out with its striking lines against a snowy backdrop, while the University Bridge offers sweeping views of the frozen South Saskatchewan River. Visit early in the morning to capture the soft light of sunrise reflecting on the frost and snow-covered structures.
Pro Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to highlight the scale of the bridges, and don’t be afraid to include the frozen river for extra drama.
Meewasin Valley Trail
The Meewasin Valley Trail is a must-visit for winter photography. Snow-covered trees line the paths, and the riverbanks are often blanketed in white. It’s a supremely serene and picturesque setting. Popular sections like those near Gabriel Dumont Park or Diefenbaker Park provide excellent vantage points for capturing Saskatoon’s natural winter beauty.
Pro Tip: Look for animal tracks in the snow to add an interesting detail to your composition.
The Prairie Lily Dock and Riverfront
The dock where the Prairie Lily riverboat rests in winter is another incredible photo spot. With the boat surrounded by ice and snow, it becomes a charming focal point against the river and city skyline. Head to the riverfront to find angles that capture both the river and Saskatoon’s urban charm.
Pro Tip: Try shooting at dusk or dawn to capture the shimmering lights and the soft pastel tones of the sky.
Your Own Block
Sometimes, the best winter photography spots are right outside your door. Inspired by Wilf Perreault’s paintings highlighting the beauty of everyday urban life, why not focus the lens on your own block? From snow-covered sidewalks to frosted fences, there’s a quiet charm in the familiar.
Pro Tip: Look for interesting light sources, like streetlights or house windows, to create warmth and contrast in your winter shots.
Back Alleys and Street Art
Saskatoon’s back alleys and murals take on a new character in winter. The colorful street art stands out brilliantly against the stark white snow, creating vibrant and unexpected photo opportunities. Explore areas like Broadway and Riversdale to find these hidden gems.
Pro Tip: Look for how the snow interacts with the art—icicles, drifts, and frosted windows can add an extra layer of interest.
The Boffins Public Gardens
Located in Innovation Place, Boffins Public Gardens is a lesser-known but gorgeous spot for winter photography. The manicured gardens take on a dreamlike quality in the snow, with frosted trees and serene pathways creating enchanting compositions.
Pro Tip: Capture the contrast between the snow and the intricate design of the garden's structures, like benches or trellises.
Winter Photography Tips
Dress Warmly: Saskatoon winters are no joke! Keep your hands and camera steady by layering up and using touchscreen gloves.
Protect Your Gear: Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation. Use a camera bag and let your equipment warm up slowly after being outside.
Play with Light: Winter light is softer and more diffused, making it perfect for capturing details. Experiment with different times of day to find the best lighting for your shots.
Look for Details: Snow creates fascinating textures and patterns—frost on windows, footprints in the snow, or ice formations along the river.
Winter in Saskatoon offers countless moments waiting to be captured. So grab your camera, bundle up, and let the city’s icy beauty inspire your next masterpiece. Happy shooting!
Andrew Christoffel
Andrew has always had a way with words. From writing his first novel at 13 to his current role as a freelance creative director and copywriter, imagination and creativity have always been a part of his life. You can usually find him writing in a coffee shop, taking photos and videos around town, or travelling the world. @ajchristoffel