Drayton Valley's best photo spots

When I think of iconic photos I think of objects/locations that define a place, or dress that defines a person. Think, Marylin Monroe in her whimsical white dress, or the Statue of Liberty in New York City. It is likely that iconic photography takes your mind to exotic destinations. But, as those local to the area know; Drayton Valley has some photo spots that can be considered iconic to the area.

I doubt that anyone from out of town who scrolls through the Brazeau and Beyond Travel Guide will instantly recognize the Cardium Theatre sign, but I will, and so will many people local to the area.

So with the help of local photographer Carmen Rae, we have come up with a few locations that you can stuff your Instagram feed with that says, “I am in Drayton Valley,” and it is a beautiful place to be.

Cardium Theatre and the downtown core

51st Street is in the heart of our downtown core and a little treasure trove of different urban backdrops. The most iconic feature of the downtown core is the historic Cardium Theatre sign, located at the Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre. During showtimes the big bright bulbs are all aglow and like a beacon attracting the attention of passersby. As the only marquee in town and set against the backdrop of a modern 1920’s building you can really have a lot of fun with this location.

Just off of 51st Street is the “Stronger Together” bison mural. This old art form is a new addition to the downtown core that brings with it a colourful pop and vibrancy that makes for a very artful backdrop. The contrast in the colours also lends itself to artsy black and white photography too.

To the west of 51st Street is the Town of Drayton Valley municipal headquarters with the iconic “Pulling Together” statue that has become the 3D representation of the Town’s motto. The statue is a re-creation of a kids’ tug-of-war photo taken by journalist Carol Maduik. The photo can be found inside the town offices. Cast statue gives a playful feeling that can be fodder for young and old creatives alike.

Drayton Valley Museum Grounds

With a selection of early to mid 20th century buildings the open air museum grounds have many backgrounds for a period photo, or just a regular old insta–photoshoot. From the old Rocky Rapids General Store, to a church, the old Eldorado School and a mural featuring the North West Mounted Police.

You can snap your way through most seasons but to get indoors you need to hit the grounds during the summer months.

South Entrance Oil Derricks

This little piece of architectural art is Drayton Valley to the core. It even has the town name plastered on it. All kidding aside; as a location there is much more for the eye to see than just the oil derricks. There are several interesting features that you could use in your photography including; The “Drayton Valley” name, the derricks, the fountain, the gardens.

Whether it is a day photo, a night photo, a welcome photo or a goodbye photo there are a number of ways to use this backdrop for a little insta-fun.

Rounding out our discussion Carmen and I couldn’t neglect the natural landscapes of Brazeau County that surrounds Drayton Valley.

Natural Locations

This list could go on forever but if we limit it to three general location ideas we have; The lookout point overlooking Willey West from the Pembina Rotary Community South Trails, viewpoints along the Pembina Nordic single track trails, any number of playgrounds and bridge points along the walking trails located in Drayton Valley.

Don’t be afraid to lace up your hiking boots and get out in the great outdoors. Some of the best shots around the area are only accessed by foot. But, getting off the beaten path is not limited to nature walks; it can also mean meandering down a back alley, or an industrial area.

From rural to urban, natural to industrial Drayton Valley has much to offer for your next photo shoot.