The city before the crowds.
On a clear morning, Hastings–Sunrise is among the first areas of Vancouver to catch the rising sun. Just minutes after sunrise, the buildings around the Pacific National Exhibition begin to glow, as the morning light reaches across the architecture and surrounding streets.
There is something surreal about the PNE on a quiet Sunday morning. A place usually associated with summer crowds, concerts, amusement rides, and thousands of visitors becomes remarkably still. Without the noise and activity, the buildings, textures, unusual details, and layers of history take on a different character.
This is a part of Vancouver where generations of history have been built beside one another, and sometimes upon one another. Around the exhibition grounds, the edges of Playland, and the surrounding Hastings–Sunrise neighbourhood, interesting architecture and unexpected compositions appear around nearly every turn.
For three hours, we will explore this distinctive part of the city, looking for light, shadow, colour, architecture, history, and the unexpected details of everyday life. Whether we are met with clear skies or wet streets, the aim is the same: to slow down, observe, and find photographs we might otherwise pass by.
A little direction can change the way we see.
Every participant receives a photographic assignment suited to their experience level: Easy, Moderate, Advanced, or Journalist. Each assignment provides a direction for the morning, encouraging you to look past the obvious and notice something you may otherwise overlook.
Perhaps it is the geometry of a building in early light, the way a colour repeats across a scene, a quiet human moment against an enormous structure, or an unexpected relationship between old and new. The assignment is not a set of rules. It is an invitation to explore your own way of seeing.
All photographic experience levels are welcome. Bring the camera you enjoy using, whether digital or film.
First light across Hastings Park and Playland.
We will meet at 7:30AM at the corner of East Hastings Street and Renfrew Street, shortly before the expected 7:49AM sunrise. If the sky is clear, we will watch for the first sunlight touching the buildings and look for the fleeting compositions that appear as the light changes.
We will explore publicly accessible areas around the PNE grounds, Playland perimeter, and neighbouring streets, paying particular attention to the contrasting architecture, historic structures, signage, lines, textures, and unexpected quiet of a Sunday morning. Our route may be adjusted according to light, weather, and site access; entry to gated attractions is not part of this walk.
We will finish at 10:30AM, after three hours of walking, photographing, and exploring the area together.
Come prepared for whatever the morning brings.
Rain or Shine
The photowalk takes place rain or shine. I encourage everyone to join regardless of the forecast. Rain, overcast skies, reflections, and changing conditions can make the photographs even more surprising. Unsafe weather conditions may require a change of plans.
Dress for Three Hours Outdoors
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, or an umbrella. We will be outside for the full three-hour walk, so prepare for cool, wet conditions even if the forecast looks promising.
Protect Your Camera
If your camera or lens is not weather-sealed, bring a suitable protective cover or dry bag in case of rain. A cloth for wiping moisture from your equipment is also useful.
Plan Your Transit
Sunday morning transit service can be limited, and some routes may not begin operating until after 7:00AM. Many bus routes do operate early, but please check your specific connection in advance and allow enough time to arrive for the 7:30AM meeting.
Join us for a quiet Sunday morning in Hastings–Sunrise.
$40.00 CAD · tax included
Your registration includes a three-hour guided photographic walk, an individually selected photographic assignment, and one archival 8 × 10 inch print of a photograph you make during the walk, with an invitation to the November 1 Print Reveal. All experience levels welcome. Space is limited; advance registration is required.
Sunday, October 25, 2026
7:30AM–10:30AM
Meet at East Hastings Street & Renfrew Street
Hastings–Sunrise, Vancouver
Rain or shine
A few things to know before we begin.
Do I need to be an experienced photographer?
No. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experienced photographers. Assignments are tailored to Easy, Moderate, Advanced, or Journalist levels.
What kind of camera should I bring?
Bring your own camera, digital or film. The walk is about seeing and making photographs, not using any particular equipment. Film photographers should arrange for their photographs to be developed and scanned in time for print submission.
Does the walk take place in the rain?
Yes. We proceed rain or shine, except where weather or site conditions become unsafe. Come prepared with rain gear, an umbrella, and protection for equipment that is not weather-sealed. Rain can create wonderful reflections, textures, and unexpected moments.
Will we be entering Playland?
No paid admission or access to closed attractions is included. We will photograph around the public areas of Hastings Park, the PNE, Playland perimeter, and surrounding streets, respecting any gates or access restrictions.
Is public transit available that early?
Some routes run early on Sundays, while others begin later. Check your journey in advance with TransLink and allow time to arrive by 7:30AM.
What is included with registration?
A three-hour guided photowalk, your individual photographic assignment, one archival 8 × 10 inch print from your submitted photograph, and an invitation to the November 1 Print Reveal.