Laura Olson Photography

This was my first wedding of 2020 and the last one before Covid hit. I feel really fortunate to have been able to photograph Sarah & Glendon’s beautiful winter wedding at the end of February before this all unfolded. These two flew from Australia to host their wedding in Whistler, close to home, where many of their loved ones live. ... This day couldn’t have been more perfect: from Sarah’s gorgeous dress, tiara, cathedral veil and baby blue Jimmy Choo’s to Glendon’s velvet suit jacket and tie, to the gorgeous florals by Erin @blisswhistler to the magical snowfall. It was such a beautiful day full of so much love, special moments and tons of laughter and dancing. I can’t wait to share more with you guys. Thank you again to Sarah & Glendon for choosing me to capture your day. _________________________________________ Photography: @lauraolsonphotography Makeup & Hair: @beautybylolli Planning & Florals & Design: @blisswhistler Videography: @onepeakcreative Officiant: @vanofficiant Venue: @slccwhistler _________________________________________ #squamishlilwatculturalcentre #slccwedding #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #lookslikefilmweddings #photobugcommunity #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @lookslikefilmweddings #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc

2020 was the first year I didn’t attend a workshop. Every year I attend 2-3 workshops with the best photographers in the industry to stay inspired, to learn better ways to run my business and to connect with other artists. While I missed that immensely this year, the down time allowed me to dig deeper into my why. What about photography makes me feel inspired? What is it about intimate weddings elopements and couples sessions that makes me so pumped? I reflected a lot on ...why I started this business. It was born out of grief and love while flipping through my own family albums. I wanted to give others that feeling of nostalgia, of returning to a memory long after it has passed and feeling the joy and emotion of that moment. That is and always has been at the heart of my business. I look forward to this year with an open and thankful heart, with inspiration and this sentiment guiding me to create my best work yet. This year will be great. I have no doubt about it. If this past year has taught me anything, it’s how to roll with the punches and how to appreciate the present. ____________________________________________________ Taken at @thekindleworkshop with @nicoleashley and @myrtleandmossphotography // Design + Decor |@bezaire_event_design Florals | @ingridrosefloralartistry Hair/makeup | @behindtheblush Models | @aislinggoodman & @d.eric_simon Dress | @ruedeseinbridal Bridal Boutique | @unionbride Rings | @emmagloverdesign Suit | @outlooksformen Video | @lordski Stationary | @crimson_letters Napkins | @trenddecoreeventdesign Wallart | @art_and_soulcreative

We did it!!Congratulations on making it through 2020! What a WILD ride this year has been. I want to send a sincere thank you to everyone who chose me to capture their special moments this year. Words can’t express what it means to me to have your support through this year. This post is just a taste of what I’ve captured in 2020 my most liked photos as picked by you. (Actually some are from 2019! ) ... I have SO much more to share with you from the past 12 months. I can not wait to share highlights from all of the beautiful weddings and elopements this week. Thank you so much for following along and loving on my work. It truly means the world to me to connect with so many amazing humans and to be entrusted with capturing such big moments in your lives. Now I’m going to leave you with this: We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our livesnot looking for flaws but for potential. With love, Laura

Let’s talk New Year’s Resolutions! Are you for or against them? Sometimes a big goal can feel intimidating or stressful when we look at everything that’s involved in reaching it. That’s why I believe in making short term goals that you can chip away at. Eventually these small achievements can lead to a new hobby, or a change in lifestyle or thinking, without us feeling overwhelmed. Instead of making a year long goal, I believe in taking everything day by day. Instead of s...aying I will read a book every month this year. I say I will try to read a chapter everyday. Eventually you will reach your larger goal by chipping away at it little by little. Making the best choice in the moment is not always easy but it can get us to where we hope to be, in time. Rather than stressing about what you may have done (or not done) yesterday or what tomorrow will bring, practicing presence is key, my friends. This is my take, anyways. What do you think? Do you set long term or short term goals or do you forgo the New Year’s resolutions and just take each situation as it comes? _____________________________________ #secheltbc #secheltmaternityphotographer #sunshinecoastbcmaternityphotographer #vancouverbc #vancouvermaternityphotographer #whistler #whistlerbc #whistlerphotographer #whistlermaternityphotographer #squamishphotographer #squamishmaternityphotographer #gibsonsbc #authenticlovemag #maternity #maternityphotos #photobugcommunity #lookslikefilm #belovedstories #momtogcommunity #sunshinecoastbc #sunshinecoastbcelopementphotographer #gibsonselopement #gibsonselopementphotographer #lackofcoloraus #rancherhat #bohomaternity #bohomaternityshoot #canada #canadianphotographer #lauraolsonphotography

These two are so dear to my heart. From the very beginning Ashley & Cody have trusted me to capture all of their special chapters. I have had them model for me when I first started out, I’ve captured an in home session when they first bought their home, I’ve photographed their engagement session, mountain top wedding and now their maternity photos. It truly means the world when I am entrusted to photograph all of your special memories. After all, this is the reason I became... a photographer. As I was flipping through old photo albums in my dad’s home, I felt transported back to those moments we shared together. It was my dream to bring that feeling to every session to encapsulate moments to be shared and looked back upon for generations. I bring this passion into everything I do because I know how much each moment means and the value photographs hold for years to come. See more

Those first looks get me everytime. Are you for them or are you more traditional? If you could go back in time, would you have done anything differently on your wedding day? . I love first looks during a big wedding so we can get those portraits done before the ceremony which means more time spent with your guests during cocktail hour! However, if your heart is set on seeing each other for the first time during your ceremony, do that! Its best to follow your instincts ...and do what works best for you as a couple. . _______________________________________ Venue: Whonnock Lake Centre Makeup: @caitlinj_makeup Dress: @mikaellabridal Florals: @florettaflowers ______________________________________ #radlovers #canadianphotographer #secheltweddingphotographer #victoriabcweddingphotographer #seasideceremony #authenticlovemag #loveandwildhearts #rockwatersecretcoveresort #pnwlife #canadianphotographer #secheltphotographer #secheltbcphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #dirtybootsandmessyhair #whistlerphotographer #whistlerwedding#weddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc #sunshinecoastbcweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcphotographer #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #vancouverweddingphotographer #vancouverphotographer #victoriaphotographer #muchlove_ig #pnwedding #lookslikefilm #portraitcollective #loveauthentic #radlovestories See more

There are too many sweet words and not enough space to describe Celeena & Austin and their wedding day it was an absolute dream in every possible way. Choosing which images to include in this post took me longer than I care to admit as this day was filled with so many beautiful moments, incredible florals and decor and impeccable details. As I looked through C & As gallery I couldnt help but get a little emotional. From the moment I spoke to Celeena I could tell that the... universe had brought us together. This womans heart is one of the biggest of anyone I know when I met Austin during their engagement session it was pretty easy to see that they were fated to meet. Since their wedding, they have brought the most beautiful baby girl into this world. Ive loved following along on their stories and watching their chapters unfold. I wish there was a way to share more of this beautiful day in this Instagram post but I will be blogging their gorgeous Fraser River Lodge wedding soon! There were so many special moments and Im forever grateful that they chose me to be the one to capture it all. ________________________________ The amazing team of vendors who made this day perfect in every way: Venue @fraserriverlodge_weddings Planner/DOC @brightgrayevents Photography @lauraolsonphotography Videography @hellotmrw Officiant @duecksofhazard DJ @hotwaxentertainment Flowers @wildrabbitflowers Wood Tables @woodpeckertables Calligraphy @hellomaurelle Rentals @thelittleweddingshoppe Rentals @prettythingsrentals Rentals @pastpieces Rentals @bespokedecor Light Install @ajrdesigns1 Hair/Makeup @michaelfelsmakeup ____________________________________ #lauraolsonphotography #fraserriverlodgeweddings #fraserriverlodge #westcoastwedding #bcweddingphotographer #canadianweddingphotographer #nikonweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc #sunshinecoastbcweddingphotographer #sechelt #secheltbc #secheltweddingphotographer #vancouverweddingphotographer #fraservalleyphotographer #seatoskywedding #bcelopementphotographer #canadianelopementphotographer @rockymtnbride #rockymtnbride #marthastewartweddings @realweddings #realweddings @ Fraser River Lodge

Im on vacay still (for the first time ever I will add!) Yeah word workaholic literally defines me. What can I say, I love what I do. Which is why Im doing a shoot tonight! . Two of my most favourite humans are visiting the Sunshine Coast for the weekend, so naturally weve planned an amazing adventure session this evening. We are starting in Gibsons and heading all the way up to Pender Harbour to hang at Ruby Lake. The session involves a picnic, vegan ice cream, a guit...ar and a ukulele, canoes and a sunset swim . I wanna know, what is your ideal date and would you want to incorporate it into a photo session? What do you envision yourself doing during your photo session? . Lets push past the pretty dresses and suits at the park, if thats not your jam. Lets incorporate your personalities, lets create something real, lets tell a story together. __________________________________________ Taken while shooting @thekindleworkshop with @nicoleashley, @myrtleandmossphotography + @henrysdiary Hair/makeup: @behindtheblush Decor/Design: @thegoodparty Florals: @ingridrosefloralartistry Dress by: @galialahav from @thebridalboutiqueyyc Jewelry: @pachulah Wedding Rings: @emmagloverdesign Cake: @schurtoplease Calligraphy Goods: @bygianlee Models: @aliciaamaclaren and @themattroy Rentals: @trenddecoreventdesign @thegoodparty Venue: @hcpgardens ________________________________________

Without any apprehension, Karen climbed over the railing on the deck at The @americancreeklodge, then bush whacked her way to this gorgeous spot, just for this photo. I would say it was worth it! Is anyone else LOVING her shoulder veils? I personally think theyre such a beautiful alternative to the traditional veil. I cant wait to share more from this beautiful day. For now, Im off to the beach _________________________________________ #whistlerhelicopterelopement ...#whistlerhelicopterwedding #americancreeklodgewedding #blackcombhelicopterselopement #seatoskyelopement #seatoskywedding #seatoskyphotographer #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #hopebcwedding #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountaintopelopement #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @pnwedding #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcelopementphotographer See more

Feeling so grateful to have been able to photograph Ashley & Codys intimate mountaintop ceremony in June. And now were planning a maternity session! Its such a special thing to be able to capture all of your beautiful milestones. I truly have the best job. . . Ashleys HMUA: Lara @beautybylaraxo ... HMUA for family: Joanna @bylobeauty Florist: Laura @heirloomflorals Photography: @lauraolsonphotography Officiant: Jeremy @whistler_weddingpastor Videography: Rylan @beautifulmotion / @beautifullifestudios Dress: @everythingbutthegroom Wedding Bands: @harlingsbc Caterer: Jacques @saltnsearcatering Helicopters: @blackcombhelicopters _________________________________________ #whistlerhelicopterelopement #whistlerhelicopterwedding #blackcombhelicopters #blackcombhelicopterselopement #seatoskyelopement #seatoskywedding #seatoskyphotographer #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountaintopelopement #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @pnwedding #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcelopementphotographer See more

Reminiscing on the years passed where I would be attending workshops, traveling every weekend for a wedding and somehow balancing life when I would arrive back home. This year is different in so many ways so many things are being brought to light . . Personally, I never realized how far I was pushing myself, without giving myself much grace or time to rest. Having this slower pace has been an adjustment, and not to make light of the suffering that many have gone through, ...but it really has reinforced what is important in life. I am aware that this is a privilege in itself. . I live in a beautiful little beach town nestled in between two waters, on the west coast of Canada, where not many have been affected by covid. To get to see my family, enjoy days at the lake and beach, and to photograph small weddings and sessions (with social distancing of course) is very fortunate. . Ive seen many people talk about the positives of covid and its lovely to see so many finding light in the darkness. This is sadly not a reality for many. Im sending love to all of you who may be suffering right now. Many are feeling their mental health declining, there are many who have lost loved ones this year, those who have sick family members that they can not visit, those holding strong to their sobriety. The list goes on. I see you and I send you my love. . This time has affected all of us in different ways so we really need to remember to be kind to one another, reach out to friends and family members and live through love. Above all else, remember to be kind. ________________________________________________ Forever in love with this session that @myrtleandmossphotography styled at her workshop in May. ________________________________________ Makeup @ebradleystyle Couple @chaltner + @trumbleybenjamin Bikini @nudeswimbar Necklace @pachulah Taken at the #theinspiredretreat with @myrtleandmossphotography __________________________________ #lauraolsonphotography #sunshinecoastbcphotographer #secheltweddingphotographer

The west coast was made for intimate weddings and elopements from the lush, green forests, to the deep blue ocean, all the way to the tippy tops of the mountains this magical place is the home of many love stories. _________________________________ Thank you to the amazing team of vendors who made this day perfect in every way: .... Planning, Design & Florals | @blisswhistler Venue | @seatoskygondola Makeup | @colleenconroymakeup Officiant | @whistler_weddingpastor Musician | @colinbullock Photography | Me @lauraolsonphotography Dress | @verawang . ________________________________ #seatoskygondola #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #coquitlammountain #mountaintopwedding #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #whistlerphotographer #canadianphotographer #mountaintopphotosession #rockymtnbride #lookslikefilmweddings #helicopterphotosession #banffwedding #banffelopement #banffweddingphotographer #squamishwedding #squamishweddingphotographer #pembertonwedding #pembertonweddingphotographer #victoriaweddingphotographer #victoriabcwedding #victoriabcweddingphotographer #mountaintopelopement

The Spencers // Last year when I did Ashley & Codys in home session they had a sign over their bed that said Rockin Porches. They told me that this was something they always said: that they will grow old together, rocking in their chairs on their porch, hand in hand, for the rest of their lives. I loved the sentimental touch of having their rocking chairs at their wedding reception. . . The amazing team of vendors: HMUA: Lara @beautybylaraxo ... Florist: Laura @heirloomflorals Officiant: Jeremy @whistler_weddingpastor Videography: Rylan @beautifulmotion / @beautifullifestudios Photography: @lauraolsonphotography Dress: @everythingbutthegroom Wedding Bands: @harlingsbc Catering: Jacques @saltnsearcatering Transportation: @blackcombhelicopters Hair Colour: @hairbykimberly.s Neon Sign: @neonstudio_ _________________________________________ #whistlerhelicopterelopement #whistlerhelicopterwedding #blackcombhelicopters #blackcombhelicopterselopement #seatoskyelopement #seatoskywedding #seatoskyphotographer #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountaintopelopement #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @lookslikefilmweddings @pnwedding #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc @dirtybootsandmessyhair

Its official!!! Meet Mr. & Mrs. Spencer I met Ashley two years ago while photographing a wedding in Vancouver. We quickly became friends, chatting on Instagram about the gorgeous wedding we worked on together. I remember Ashley telling me about her wedding dreams for the future (if you know Ash she is a romantic at heart I came to learn that shes been planning this day since she was a little girl). Over the past two years I have had the immense joy of photographing Ashl...ey and Codys multiple times. Within a few hours of becoming engaged Ashley sent me some pictures from their proposal and we quickly started planning their date. They had always planned to get married on June 19, but then Covid hit and restrictions were put in place. They were looking for a way to still make things official on their original date. Well, what better way than taking your close family and bridal party up the mountain in helicopters to witness you exchange vows? And dont get me started on their adorable wedding reception location in Codys aunts back yard. . . Hair & Makeup: Lara & Joanna @bylobeauty Florist: Laura @heirloomflorals Officiant: Jeremy @whistler_weddingpastor Videography: Rylan @beautifulmotion / @beautifullifestudios Caterer: Jacques @saltnsearcatering Helicopters: @blackcombhelicopters . . _________________________________________ #whistlerhelicopterelopement #whistlerhelicopterwedding #blackcombhelicopters #blackcombhelicopterselopement #seatoskyelopement #seatoskywedding #seatoskyphotographer #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountaintopelopement #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #lookslikefilmweddings #photobugcommunity #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @lookslikefilmweddings @pnwedding #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc

When we look back on this moment in history, will we be proud of the actions we took, of the humans we were? Will we be able tell our children about the protests we went to, the petitions we signed, the emails we sent, the donations we made, the racists we told off? The businesses we stopped supporting? Will we be able to recount the many ways we stood up against injustice? Will we feel comfort in the truth? Will we think back on the ways we fought against systemic racism and... oppression, OR will we regretfully say, Honestly, Im ashamed to say I didnt do much.? . When we look back on our lives, how much of it will we have spent fighting for what we believe in? For equality for every person? . I choose to live a legacy that my daughter can be proud of. I have a duty as a mother to instil values in her to show her my humanity, compassion and love all of which she will carry in her heart and on to the next generation and make this world a better place with daily intentional actions. . Making a sustained change starts with our children. To choose to make daily conscious actions that teach them how to be caring humans who stand up against injustice. They are watching us. They are learning. They need to hear our voices to learn how to find theirs. . When we lay down in bed at night, we have to ask ourselves, did I do my very best today? And we have to be truthful with ourselves.

Black lives matter. I recently took a break from social media, but it would be a disservice to stay silent for a moment longer. There is SO much work to be done here. Its not enough to post quotes & black squares. We must do the work.... I am committed to becoming a better ally. I am committed to working to dismantle the very real systems of oppression & racism that have existed for hundreds of years the systems that have caused generations of trauma and abuse to Black people. My hope is that white folks will sit in their discomfort and use it as a call to action. Seek out anti-racism education from Black folks. Speak up when a family member makes racist jokes or comments. Say something if you see any injustice towards Black people in your community or workplace. Teach your children from a young age that we are all equal, what it means to be anti-racist and to speak up when they notice an inequality of rights towards Black people. Please, I beg of you, do not allow this to be a passing phase for you. Human rights activism is not a trend. Carry this passion you are feeling right now to continue to grow and learn. Educate yourself, speak up, do not revert to a place of complacency. Do not use the excuse that you are too busy or you dont know what to say. If you can post quotes to your stories, photos of your work or the latest items in your shop, you can put in the time to work to become a strong ally off of social media. I am making this a personal commitment, not for social media likes or follows, not to boost my algorithm, but to walk the damn walk. I am following in the footsteps of @themeadowshop and officially donating 10% of my income from this week to @rachel.cargle and @thelovelandfoundation I am giving away one photo session (scroll to the end to see how to enter.) I will be showing my solidarity by walking in peace for inclusion, love and equality this Sunday. I will be bringing my daughter to teach her to stand up to injustice. I stand with you, in solidarity. Calligraphy by @aylapena **If you are seeing this for the first time on Facebook, it was brought to my attention that my instagram posts arent automatically posting here anymore.**

I recently took the longest break from posting to this page. Above all else, I believe in being real and posting when I have something to say. During this time, I have been at a loss for words - for once. It has been heartbreaking to see so many lovely couples forced to postpone their dream weddings. I have so much compassion for every couple whos wedding has been affected by covid-19. We are all facing this in our own unique ways. I encourage everyone to be compassionate du...ring this time and try to find the beauty in it since much of it is out of our control. . I feel really fortunate to have been able to photograph Sarah & Glendons beautiful winter wedding at the end of February before this all unfolded. These two flew from Australia to host their wedding in Whistler, close to home, where many of their loved ones live. This day couldnt have been more perfect: from Sarahs gorgeous dress, tiara, cathedral veil and baby blue Jimmy Choos to Glendons velvet suit jacket and tie, to the gorgeous florals by Erin @blisswhistler to the magical snowfall. . It was such a beautiful day full of so much love, special moments and tons of laughter and dancing. I cant wait to share more with you guys. Thank you again to Sarah & Glendon for choosing me to capture your day. I love you guys _________________________________________ Photography: @lauraolsonphotography Makeup & Hair: @beautybylolli Planning & Florals & Design: @blisswhistler Videography: @onepeakcreative Officiant: @vanofficiant Venue: @slccwhistler _________________________________________ #squamishlilwatculturalcentre #slccwedding #seatoskygondolawedding #seatoskygondolaweddingphotographer #seatoskygondolaphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #whistler #mountaintopwedding #mountainweddingphotographer #helicopterphotoshoot #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #whistlerwedding #whistlerweddingphotographer #canadianwedding #canadianweddingphotographer #canadianelopement #canadianelopementphotographer #whistlerweddingphotography #lookslikefilmweddings #photobugcommunity #rockymtnbride @rockymtnbride @photobugcommunity @lookslikefilmweddings #secheltweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc @ Squamish Lilwat Cultural Centre in Whistler

"I cant wait for a years time, when all of this is a distant memory and there is a corona baby boom because all the lovers were lovin. And there is a rise in small business because all the entrepreneurs had a moment of stillness and creativity. And all the children remember nothing but a time when all the moms and dads were at home, drawing and playing board games, and we remember it as a time we all got to stop and be present. .... We will remember the time our health was our first priority and people learned new ways to use fresh produce to feed their families and we were forced to think outside the box and dream up new things, and reinvent old ways and for once even amongst the chaos there was community, there was a global rise in togetherness and the streets were quiet but our homes were bustling with love and laughter. That time is coming...soon. Just like the other crisis before, this will all be a distant memory, a thing we soon listen to our children discuss in classrooms, a once was; that we share with our grand babies. So to you - I know its unsettling but focus on the silver lining. we are in this together and theres so much beauty to see." - So beautifully written by @Leilastead See more

Today I am releasing dates for: Boudoir Sessions Mini Portrait Sessions for our little ones ... Stay tuned for more details! Laura xo

Kelly and Mike are two of the kindest humans I have had the pleasure of photographing. A few weeks ago they traveled to the Sunshine Coast for their engagement session. I took them to one of my favourite locations with a sand bar, beautiful driftwood, a view of the mountains and islands. They really wanted a beach setting and I gotta say, the weather showed up in the most beautiful way. I had such a great time getting to know these two and I simply can not wait for their we...dding in May __________________________________ #lauraolsonphotography #sunshinecoastbcphotographer #secheltweddingphotographer ______________________________________ #radlovers #canadianphotographer #secheltweddingphotographer #victoriabcweddingphotographer #beachwedding #galianoisland #loveandwildhearts #rockwatersecretcoveresort #pnwlife #canadianphotographer #secheltphotographer #secheltbcphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #dirtybootsandmessyhair #whistlerphotographer #whistlerwedding#weddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbc #sunshinecoastbcweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcphotographer #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #vancouverweddingphotographer #vancouverphotographer #victoriaphotographer #haidagwaiiweddingphotographer #mysticbeachelopement #galianoislandweddingphotographer @ Gibsons, British Columbia

This moment. Your first baby is so close to entering this world and youre wondering who this human will be, what will they look like, what will it feel like to have your child look into your eyes for the first time? And who will they grow up to be? What will their likes and dislikes be? I remember this feeling so well. The excitement, the anticipation, and all of the visions you have for the future as a parent to this tiny new human. // And to all of you waiting, wishing ...and hoping to be parents soon, my heart is with you. ________________________________ #lauraolsonphotography #sunshinecoastbcphotographer ______________________________________ #radlovers #canadianphotographer #secheltweddingphotographer #victoriabcweddingphotographer #seasideceremony #authenticlovemag #loveandwildhearts #rockwatersecretcoveresort #pnwlife #canadianphotographer #secheltphotographer #secheltbcphotographer #lauraolsonphotography #dirtybootsandmessyhair #maternityshoot #whistlerwedding#weddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcmaternityphotographer #sunshinecoastbcweddingphotographer #sunshinecoastbcphotographer #sunshinecoastweddingphotographer #vancouverweddingphotographer #vancouverphotographer #victoriaphotographer #muchlove_ig #pnwedding #maternityshoot #portraitcollective #momentsinmotherhood #secheltmaternityphotographer See more

Wow. This online community is so amazing. Thank you to everyone who reached out yesterday in response to my stories about our recent water damage in our home. . I was so amazed at the outpouring of love and words of reassurance from so many of you lovely humans.... . So often we see people speaking of the negative side of social media but MAN the community that you can build by showing up and sharing your life the good and the bad is mind blowing. . Its such a vulnerable thing to share the difficult moments in life, but when I do, I see so many of you are going through your own difficult chapters. It is such a relief to know that no ones life is perfect. There is no such thing as a flawless life. And honestly I think thats how it should be. Otherwise, how would be learn and grow? . Thank you for sending me your love, sharing your water damage stories which made me feel like were not alone in this, and your words of encouragement that this can be a positive thing. Like I said in my stories yesterday: weve been through worse and we can take anything life throws at us. . Im so grateful that youre here with me, accepting me in the good and the bad. I love you all!

Evoking emotion through intentional direction is how I would best describe my photography style. . I wouldnt say its "posed" but I also wouldnt call it "documentary". I capture your connection, in an intentional way. . I love incorporating pieces of your story into your session. I believe in storytelling through imagery but how do we tell your story without knowing how you got here? How you met? What you enjoy doing together? What makes your connection unique?... Connection and vulnerability are key to my process. I require a connection to you, to your story and your vulnerability to share it, to let all your anxieties go, as I capture you and your love in its most authentic form. To put it bluntly: you gotta give me your 100%. My promise to you is that I will ALWAYS give you mine. . If you feel like sharing: what makes you nervous about booking a session? What would provide more comfort for you to feel like being more open and vulnerable with your photographer? I want to know!!

How many of you are happy with your job right now? Does it allow you to balance your life? Are you truly enjoying each day you are there ? I remember when I was younger -- maybe 22 or 23 years old -- I was apprenticing at a salon that, well...It was not an environment for growth, even though it disguised itself as such. This was a job I thought was going to help me grow into an amazing hairstylist but really it was 7 days a week on a low income that made i...t impossible to cover my student loans, let alone rent. Thank goodness for my Dad -- I told him how I was feeling and he said "You dont like the job? So quit!" Ummm what Dad?! I didnt expect you to say that!. . Life is so precious, my girl. You cant spare a second of it working at a job that makes you this miserable. Think about how much time you spend there how many moments of happiness you are missing out on. BOOM. This changed my LIFE. Now, I realize that I am one of the privileged ones who was able to quit a job, move home and start fresh. I know that may not be your circumstances. There are bills to pay, there is the fear of leaving a job before you have your next one lined up. But, what if I had never left that job? What if I never moved home? Never started dating Dean? Never had my daughter and had that hope and love for her in my heart when I lost my father? - . His lessons on the fragility of life, the meaning of being present, and not allowing anyone or anything to steal any of my happiness were the very lessons that guided me to this profession. - . This is a huge part of why I am so passionate about what I do. To me, this isnt about taking pictures and being on my way. This is about connection, observing humans and their unique relationships with their loved ones, getting to know them and what makes their heart beat fastest, bringing light into the lives of my clients by really showing them how much I truly care about them care about them and all their moments: from the beautiful portraits, to the genuine moments of tears, laughter and getting down on the dance floor on their wedding day. But, if I had never taken that chance. If I had never done the scary thing and eventually quit my profession as a hairstylist alltogether, I wouldnt be here, with you. Is there something that you want to do that scares you? Whats holding you back? The uncertainty of the future? The stories you tell yourself that you "arent good enough, theres enough photographers/ painters / whatever dream job out there already I dare you to do the thing that scares you! Even if its not a BIG move. Even if its one small thing. It may change the course of your day, your week, or your life. . Photo by @evacherneff

Sarah & Aarons Post Wedding Couples Session is up on the blog! <3

Frankie & Noah are up on the blog! <3

Im off to Vancouver for the first time in two months and I jam packed my weekend with goodness to make the most of it! Tomorrow morning I have an amazing boudoir session in a bright, minimalistic space with the lovely @aurelcee. In the afternoon I am meeting my lovely clients Madison & Mark for the first time (after many FaceTime calls ) to photograph their beautiful Granville Island wedding. Then I get to catch up with my friend on Saturday evening. And theeeeennnn on Sunday I will be hosting my first boudoir day at the @loft_garden_oasis with the lovely @paragonmakeup I am sooo excited for a weekend of capturing love and intimacy.

I probably could have just blogged this. Part one of three <3

My creative brain: Separate your boudoir work from your wedding work That same brain, later in the day: You must share your boudoir work on your main photography page. ... Welcome to editing season friends; where sunlight and sleep are minimal and the editing queue and to-do lists are full on. Hug your photographer friends and bring them all the coffee.

Ill never forget A & Es beautiful Victoria wedding at the @parkside_hotel. The day was filled with so much love and emotion. We have about 10 minutes to capture their portraits at the beach and they will forever be some of my favourite images.

Love will not save you. But it will hold your hand while you save yourself. And in a world that seems sometimes devoid of goodness, in a world that sometimes feels to heavy to bear, I think that is all we are really searching for. Someone by our side. Someone who grounds us. Someone who will quietly hug us for twenty minutes straight while we figure it all out. I think that is all anyone ever really needs. Someone who sees them. Someone who stays. : @rainbowsalt // Forever touched by the magic of the written word. How amazing is it that another human can write words that feel like they came from our own hearts.

Today I sent off two full wedding galleries!! Delivering your retouched images brings me SO much joy. I spend countless hours choosing the absolute best images (usually from a folder of at least 5000 images), then colour correcting and finally, retouching every image. Its a labour of love from start to finish. But there is nothing better than being given the honour to be the one to tell this chapter of your story. These images last a lifetime and I want them to be the best representation of you and your day. Im working hard on getting all of the galleries out and Im so excited for you to see all of the little moments that were captured.

Out of the 11342 days I have been alive, the past 1461 have by far been the absolute best. This day, four years ago, when I held you for the very first time, I changed instantly. I remember looking at you and feeling a depth of love that I had never felt before. Thank you for choosing us to be your parents. Your kind and loving heart teaches us so much every day. The house is full of love and giggles and has a warmth to it ever since you entered our lives. You have made us be...tter people and we promise to always hold you when you need comfort, to let you be whoever you want to be, to help guide you through life and let you make your own mistakes because that is how you will grow. Life isnt always going to be easy, there will be difficult times. However, I want you to know that we will always be there for you; to hold you, to support you, to be there to listen and not judge you. You are the biggest joy we have ever known. We are so lucky to be your parents. Happy Birthday my sweet girl. See more

So many of my lovely friends are grieving the loss of a loved one right now. It makes me think a lot about how we are so numb to grief in the western world. We say so sorry for your loss because we dont know what to say. One of the things I am passionate about but have put on the back burner is normalizing grief. We need to start talking about it. Its something we will all experience and something that is so individual to each person. Every relationship we have is complex..., different, and full of individual memories that we hold onto. When we lost our father it was interesting to see the way my sister and I processed our grief in our own way. We both felt immense loss of the tragedy of losing our hero, the man who would throw us both over his shoulders at the same time and carry us. We dealt with our loss in different ways; had different regrets, different key memories, different lessons that we learned from him. When he drew his last breath, we lost him in the physical sense. It was instant pain and heartache which has lasted for these past four years. Dont get me wrong, it does soften. Over time. You somehow get used to living with this hole in your life where this person you loved used to be. Its painful. Its hard. Youll fight it. As much as youve lost your loved one out there you never lose them in here. You never lose the love you shared. You never lose your memories. You never lose the lessons and the mannerisms you picked up from that person. You will always have moments that trigger a memory, that will make you laugh, smile or maybe cry. And thats ok. The love you shared never ends, it transcends through time and space. Ive read Grief is love with no place to go but when you take that love and put it into yourself, allow yourself to heal slowly (whatever that means for you) and even put that love into something else, like a project or a passion, you will start to heal around that hole. You will be ok. I promise. And if anyone reading this ever needs help with processing their grief, or just wants to share a story about your loved one, Im always here. Lets talk about it. Together, we can help normalize grief. See more

Pledging your love at 2000 feet. // The @seatoskygondola is one of my absolute favourite venues in the Sea to Sky country. I was so shocked and saddened when the gondola was vandalized this past summer. Its been really amazing to watch how much work they are putting into rebuilding. I cant wait for more weddings and elopements there once the construction is complete _____________________________ Thank you to the amazing team of vendors who made this day perfect in ev...ery way: . Planning, Design & Florals | @blisswhistler Venue | @seatoskygondola Makeup | @colleenconroymakeup Officiant | @whistler_weddingpastor Musician | @colinbullock Photography | Me @lauraolsonphotography Dress | @verawang . See more

Well, the boudoir days are booking up and Im SO PUMPED for all of the epic sessions! Each of you that booked your session have done a fabulous job of incorporating your personality into the mood boards that I asked you to put together. I love seeing what youre drawn to; whether its an image you saw on Pinterest or on my website or instagram feed! We are all unique and I would never want to photograph two people the same way. Can we also talk about the studios that we are hosting theseboudoir days in? They are gorgeous and my mind is already racing with ideas for your sessions! If youve been on the fence about booking, please dm me, let me know your concerns or what may be holding you back. This is a safe space to share what you may be struggling with.

Heidi One of the absolute kindest humans I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She is a huge inspiration to me; from her sobriety, to her entrepreneurial spirit, to her outlook on life. I met Heidi two years ago when she moved to the Sunshine Coast. From the moment I met her I was blown away; she has this way of making everyone around her feel welcome and loved. I firmly believe our success in life depends not so much on what we do or say, but more so how we make others ...feel. Heidi makes you feel seen and heard. Because of this, I know she is a woman to watch. I know she will achieve great things in this life because she works damn hard and has vision. Lovely Heidi, thank you for inspiring me to ditch alcohol, to stay focused on my goals and to live every day to the fullest. I am so grateful to have met you.This world is such a beautiful place because you are in it . . Tan: Time To Glow Mobile Spa Makeup: Holly Carter Model: Heidi Kysa Photography: Moi See more

After Glow Sessions What are they? Basically a post wedding session aka day after session. Who are they for? Couples who dont want to leave their guests for photos and that want to be fully present on their wedding day. Or, like S & A here, couples who had a friggin blast taking pictures with me and wanted to do it again! These portrait sessions provide a great opportunity to soak up this chapter in your life without the confines of a wedding timeline. A lot of my cou...ples who have had big weddings in the past two years have started booking these post wedding sessions so they can relive the emotions of their day, reread their vows, snuggle up and soak up this amazing chapter in their lives. Is there anything you want to know about Afterglow Sessions? Have you personally had one or have considered one? Let me know if you enjoyed the experience! See more

Victoria Boudoir Sessions with @chloelorraine.mua at the @took androse.loft are starting to book up and I couldnt be more excited! I am so looking forward to photographing some amazing solo boudoir sessions and couples sessions. Honestly there are no rules here!! You dont even need lingerie. Bring a bodysuit, a swimsuit, cotton underpants and a T-shirt, an oversized button down top, a chunky knit sweater and boy shorts. Over the knee socks are super cute too! For coup...les sessions I recommend comfy and cozy but make it your own. YOU DO YOU BOO. These sessions are so empowering, were going to have an absolute blast! And trust me, I dont enjoy gazing into the camera when I get my photo taken, so my focus during these sessions is more of a lifestyle approach. I want to capture you as you are I ask my clients to create Pinterest boards so I can get a clear vision for what they are drawn to and then add my own creative spin on that to ensure we are creating the best images possible. I will never try to make you do anything that feels uncomfortable or not you. If you would like to know more about these sessions I still have some spots available in Victoria on November 24 (possibly opening up the 25 as well!) and will be opening up dates for a Sunshine Coast boudoir day tomorrow! So stay tuned. See more