Even since the beginning of the planning process, Alexandra knew that she wanted to have her R.C. Harris Water Treatment engagement photos taken in the summer.
R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant had everything Alexandra hoped to capture in her engagement photos. The stunning architecture, minimalistic design of the area, and view towards Lake Ontario were perfect for her and Johnny.

Golden Hour R.C. Harris Water Treatment Engagement Session

We had scheduled a date for our photo session, but a rainstorm always messed up our plans. We had already rescheduled the session twice because of the uncooperative weather, so this was our third try.

I arrived earlier at R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant in Toronto to beat the traffic and scout locations where I wanted to have my couple photographed. Since I hadn’t been there before, Google Photos has been my only source of information.

While touring the area, I felt some raindrops on me. “Oh man,” I thought, “this is our third time, and the weather has not cooperated again.” Deep down, I was optimistic, hoping the light rain would quickly pass so that when it was time to start taking photos, there would be no rain.

The day was humid, and the air was thick. However, being beside the lake, a breeze gave me hope for better conditions to replace the current situation.

The Third Time is a Charm

Alexandra and Johnny arrived as planned, but they didn’t bring Johnny’s dad’s car because it had an open roof, and they were worried about the possibility of rain. They said they would pass on the idea with the car and go with the rest of the session. They were dressed in white and perfectly suited for this setting and the photos that Alexandra had in mind.

I noticed that Alexandra seemed quite nervous, while Johnny appeared calm and ready to collaborate on whatever ideas Alexandra had. It was clear that they were eager to explore various options for their wedding day photo style for the upcoming summer. Alexandra shared some inspiring photos from previous sessions at this location and others. Based on that, I realized she likes black-and-white images and less posed but more candid pictures.

To achieve that state of mind and a relaxing atmosphere, we need to work together for some time, and then that feeling will come naturally in their behaviours.

Why Did I Fall In Love With R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant?

Before the photo session, I spent time scouting the area and looking at other photos of the place. I created a mental map of how I would move around during the session. Knew there would likely be some changes, but it gave me the opportunity to visit all the places I had in mind and try out different photography styles that I thought would work well for the subjects.

I found the elevation at this location to be one of its most advantageous aspects. Its higher vantage points allowed me to capture unique perspectives of the surroundings, providing views that cannot be found anywhere else. I also really appreciated the architecture of the R.C. Harris Water Treatment plant in these engagement photos. The plant’s minimalist design and sharp edges provided great leading lines, which I used to direct the viewer’s attention towards the couple, making them the focal point of the photographs.

Another thing I love about this place is the way the gray tones in the picture complement the golden hour and the blue colour of the lake. Depending on whether it’s a sunny or overcast day, the atmosphere can feel completely different. I’ve experienced both during our session.

There were so many more characteristics of this place that I can list here, but those were my top 3 takeaways from this location this time.

Where There Is a Will There’s a Way

I love the energy we developed during the second hour while working around the plant. Alexandra became more comfortable with me taking their photos. The humidity slowly decreased, and the rain was entirely gone, as if we had never had it to begin with. The sun was setting behind the plant, and we enjoyed the candid moments while documenting their engagement photos.

After taking the last images in the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant area, I suggested taking some photos on the beach near the plant. Alexandra was enthusiastic about the idea. They had brought champagne and glasses, so they wanted to open them and enjoy some drinks by the lake. I mentioned that I would only be taking candid images, and they were free to relax and have fun as much as they liked.

Beach Sunset With Champagne at Lake Ontario

I was thrilled to see how two people transformed into their true selves once they relaxed during the photoshoot. They started interacting more naturally and appeared more comfortable in front of the camera. This helped me plan for their wedding day because I knew they would value capturing the genuine emotions and expressions they displayed during the photoshoot.

Just before we were about to leave, I noticed the sun had set, but I couldn’t help but admire the breathtaking view from one part of the beach. In the distance, I could see the CN Tower, which made me consider asking for some nighttime photos. Although I knew they were done posing, I wanted to offer these night photos in addition to their session. This way, I could see if they would like a similar setting on their wedding day.

I was so pleased with how these images turned out. It was a perfect way to end a session that started with rain, humidity, nervousness, and uncertainty and finished with a great feel and a happy couple.

Thank you, Alexandra and Johnny, for helping me document your R.C. Harris Water Treatment engagement photos in your unique way.

Additional information for couples that like to see more engagements and weddings with stunning architectures.

Check here the engagement session of Rabiya and Imran at Knox College. View our post Why we prefer scheduling engagement session around sunset for some inspiration for your own session.