Bride and Groom standing on rocks at a destination wedding

The Best Way to Remember Your Destination Wedding is with Stunning Photography

How do you choose the right wedding photographer for your destination wedding? With so many photographers out there, how do you know who to choose? I’m going to outline the benefits of hiring a destination wedding photographer and how they can help you create amazing photos that will last a lifetime. First, let’s talk about the benefits of bringing a destination wedding photographer.

The benefits of hiring a destination wedding photographer?

Hiring a destination wedding photographer ensures you love the look of the photos and their quality. With many destination wedding packages, the resort will offer photography as part of the wedding package. While this may seem like a great option, you rarely know the quality and style of the photographer who will be photographing your special day. With destination weddings, you want to hire a photographer who you know and trust.

By researching photographers ahead of time, you understand their style, get to meet them ahead of your wedding day, and can trust in the quality of their work based on their portfolio and meeting. Bringing a destination wedding photographer with you ensures you receive top quality photos as you have already researched and found the photographer that best matches the style you love. This is much more preferrable than relying on whomever is working in the resort photo office that day.

Bringing your wedding photographer with you also ensures you get full day coverage. Covering the getting ready, quiet times of reflection, the ceremony, formals, and of course, the party, your photographer is with you for the day. Meeting the photographer ahead of time over coffee, having an engagement session also creates the level of familiarity with them. You no longer have a stranger lurking around photographing you during the wedding, but a familiar and happy face who is there to capture every special moment.

Inveremere wedding along the cliffs
Inveremere wedding along the cliffs at destination wedding

Picking the Right Photographer

Choosing the best destination wedding photographer for your wedding can be a daunting task. With so many options in and around Calgary, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. There are three main points you should consider when looking for a photographer: 1) their style, 2) their experience, and 3) what they offer.

The first point on your list is probably the most important, if the photographer has great experience and price but you don’t like the style of the photos…well….you are just not going to be happy with your photos. If you are looking for a light and airy style, or ones that are a little more dramatic, or perhaps you want to find someone that can do both, it is important to find the photographer that is right for you.

Next, take into consideration how much experience the photographer has shooting weddings like yours. The more experienced photographers will have an easier time getting perfect photos while dealing with any challenges that may arise during the day. Being able to adapt to changing situations is critical. You’ll want to make sure you cover all of your bases before finalizing your decision.

Finally, find out what is included in the package. Does the photographer offer only water-marked images? Do they limit how many photos you receive from your wedding day? Do they have a minimum number of days they require to be on site for? All these factors can play an important part in determining the actual cost of the photographer.

A great way to remember your wedding is by hiring a wedding photographer who knows exactly what they’re doing and captures each moment from the big moments, like the vows and cake cutting, to the smaller ones, like laughing with your friends or dancing with your spouse. It’s worth spending a little extra money up front for amazing photographs that will last forever!

It’s important to find the right wedding photographer to fit your needs – there are many photographers who specialize in different types of weddings (destination weddings, formal weddings, elopement weddings). Find one whose style you love.

Be sure to take a peek at the portfolios before booking, ensure they have shot multiple couples in different environments and lighting. You may want to consider it a red flag if the same wedding couple are in all of the portfolio photos. You’ll be able to see the look of the images under all the different conditions and locations from each wedding shoot. It’s important not just for them but also for you too since it’s such an emotional day that should be preserved in every way possible!

Destination wedding Mexico wedding reception
Destination wedding Mexico wedding reception

Tips for Working with Your Photographer

Choosing a Calgary wedding photographer can be an intimidating process, but the first step is to find one that you connect with. An engagement session before your wedding day will help get everyone more comfortable in front of the camera and capture candid moments. We spend time during your engagement session teaching you some of the little intricacies about posing so you are comfortable throughout the day. We use the time to find out the style you love best, and of course some time to laugh and have fun with it.

Once you’ve chosen your photographer, be sure to maintain open communication with them. Tell them the style of photos you most prefer, if there are any “must-have” photos. Always feel that you can talk with the photographer if you have a suggestion or a question.

Hire a professional so that all your memories live on forever ! Make sure you hire someone who has experience photographing weddings. Take some time to go through portfolios online or ask friends if they have any recommendations. When meeting with potential photographers, make sure to ask questions like How many weddings have you photographed? or What’s your photography style? A reputable wedding photographer should provide detailed pricing information without hesitation and won’t pressure you into making a quick decision. It’s also helpful if the wedding photographer has been highly recommended by others or even recommended by vendors such as hair stylists, makeup artists, videographers etc…

Wedding photographer at destination wedding
Wedding photographer at destination wedding in Central Alberta

Questions to Ask Potential Photographers

Before you hire your wedding photographer, it’s important to ask them all of the questions that are going through your head. Here are some questions you may want to consider:

Before you hire your wedding photographer, it’s important to ask them all of the questions that are going through your head. Here are some questions you may want to consider:

  • What type of camera do you use?
    • Your photographer should be using professional series equipment. Shooting a full-frame camera in RAW mode allows greater detail and adjustment opportunities. Here at Patton Photography we utilize a Canon R5 along with multiple lenses and lights. We also utilize a professional series Canon camera as a back-up. Just in case anything were to happen to the main camera, we can immediately switch to our back-up.
  • What style of photography do you specialize in?
    • Our favorite style is modern and dramatic, however, there are times when light and airy is a better fit for the image. Utilizing our strobe light system, allows us to create dramatic images, then by pressing a single button on the camera, we switch to a natural light look. This ensures that we capture the best image for the situation and can adapt quickly to any situation
  • Do you have any photos on your website that were taken at a destination wedding?
    • We have photos from Mexico, helicopter weddings, as well as weddings in British Columbia and Central Alberta. Prior to travelling to the location, we utilize satellite imagery to get an overall idea of layout. We then locate the best locations and angles for your photos. We ensure we take into account high / low tides. wind direction, etc to ensure we try and eliminate any surprises
  • How many weddings have you photographed per year?
    • We limit how many weddings we shoot each year, typically keeping it under 10 weddings. We do this to ensure that we do not get behind or exhausted from weddings and can provide each couple the best possible service. We also photograph families, headshots, and product photography which keep our schedules full. These additional specialties allow us to bring those techniques to your wedding day.
  • How long will it take until I receive my images and other printed products from the wedding?
    • Our contract lists the images will be returned within eight weeks. We are typically well under this however. Printed images, metal prints, canvases, etc all have different delivery times depending on the item. Some items may be days while some of our other higher end products are actually shipped to us from Italy.
  • Are you insured for wedding work?
    • We carry full licenses and business insurance to cover anywhere we are working. We strongly encourage all our clients to talk with their photographers to ensure they are fully licensed and insured. If your photographer isn’t willing to invest in proper licensing and insurance, you should wonder how serious they take their business.



Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional photograph.  Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Calgary Wedding Heritage Pointe 0723

Beautiful Wedding at Heritage Pointe Golf Course

Ashley and Ryan’s weekend wedding proved to be an amazing day with beautiful weather and an incredible venue. The clear blue skies and the green valley that the venue overlooks provided the perfect day

The day started with the girls getting ready at the fantastic Distilled Beauty Bar and Social House. This is a truly unique business that offers hair, nail, and other beauty services while offering food and beverage options from their fully stocked bar and coffee shop. Get pampered while enjoying a cocktail!!!!

Heritage Pointe Golf Club provided the venue and backdrop for what proved to be a wonderful outdoor ceremony. Weddings By Jack and Gerri provided the co-ordination and officiating of the ceremony and as always were amazing at what they do. It was great to work with them again. While Jack provided the officiating, Gerri ensured that everything ran perfectly smoothy.

The great staff at Heritage Point Golf Course brought our group around to some stunning locations at the golf course while the clubhouse staff ensured everyone was well taken care of during the cocktail hour with some flavorful drinks and appetizers. Be sure to ask their AMAZING blue lemonade, it is beyond incredible.

Sam from Outright Entertainment provided the soundtrack for the night. We have worked with Outright many times and they are one of our favorite DJ’s, however it was our first time working with Sam. His quirky sense of humor and personality ensured that everyone had a great time. We look forward to working with them again soon.

Heritage Pointe Wedding Photography

Calgary Wedding sunset panorama
Calgary Wedding sunset panorama
Calgary Bride Groom Photo 0723
Calgary Bride Groom Photo 0723
Calgary Bride Groom First Kiss 0723
Calgary Bride Groom First Kiss 0723
Calgary wedding first dance 0723
Calgary wedding first dance 0723
Calgary Wedding Cake Cutting 0723
Calgary Wedding Cake Cutting 0723

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional photograph.  Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Winter engagement silhouette

Beautiful Winter Engagement in the Mountains

Ashley and Ryan wanted winter engagement photos in the mountains, and Kananaskis provided the perfect backdrop. Located an hour West of Calgary, nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this location offers the perfect stop for those wanting the mountain views without all the costs that some of the nearby tourist towns require.

It had been some time since I had been out to the mountains this year, so I took the opportunity to go early and explore a few locations. Once our couple showed up, we had some ideas in mind for what we wanted to do. While the weather could not decide what it wanted to do, from sun, to snow, to wind. the Calgary saying of “just wait five minutes and the weather will change’ certainly held true.

We started at Wedge Pond, just a little South of Kananaskis Village. A beautiful little pond at the base of a mountain provided our initial backdrop. We found some spots within the trees as well as along a bit of a ridge to grab some shots of our couple. From there we headed North to Mt Lorette Ponds, about 15 minutes up the road. There are many hidden little spots in this area, each offering a great little backdrop all their own.

We are certainly looking forward to celebrating Ashley and Ryan’s wedding this summer and wish them all the best.

This is also the first session we have photographed with our new camera system. Although it has proven to be a steep learning curve, we are looking forward to all the great features and performance that this camera offers.

Winter engagement silhouette
Winter silhouette
Winter Kananaskis Engagement
Winter Engagement
Kananaskis Engagement Ring
Engagement Ring
Calgary Winter Engagement Mountains
Calgary Winter Engagement Mountains

Winter Wedding Engagement in the Mountains


Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional photograph.  Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Coulee Creek Farm wedding

2021 – Calgary Photographers Year in Review

2021 proved to be a unique year for Calgary photographers. What started off extremely slow, turned into a busy year. As the pandemic dragged into it’s second year, many plans were delayed, schedules were changed, and in some cases weddings had to be canceled as some of our international clients found they were not able to travel across borders due to travel restrictions.

Calgary Wedding Photography

I would be lying if I said we had no worries about the future of our company as we lost booking after booking and found ourselves repaying contracts for clients who found they could not have their weddings as originally planned. The nerves eased as new clients called and the wedding industry started to pick up once again. What originally looked like another slow year, turned into a great year for wedding photography.

Calgary wedding in Park
Calgary wedding in Park
Calgary Chinese wedding reflection
Calgary Chinese wedding reflection
Calgary Chinese Wedding Reception
Calgary Chinese Wedding Reception

While we were fortunate to work with some great venues we have used in the past, we got to visit many great new locations as well. Coulee Creek Farms started our year and ‘WOW!!!!’ this place is awesome. The outdoor wedding was amazing and on what was probably one of the nicest days of the summer. The property features a large barn which housed the dinner and party, a lake which provides an incredible backdrop for photos, and miles of beautiful views, this was a great way to start the year.

We also got to see the great people at Outright Entertainment once again and as always, they kept the party going until well after we left. This wedding also featured another first for us, a STUNNING black wedding dress handmade by ‘Customs by Shirley’.

Calgary Photographers wedding dress
Calgary Photographers wedding dress
Coulee Creek Farm wedding
Coulee Creek Farm wedding
Wedding Reception Sunset
Wedding Reception Sunset
Coulee Creek farm wedding reception
Coulee Creek farm wedding reception
Calgary wedding photography silhouette
Calgary wedding photography silhouette

We have photographed many Canmore weddings, however this was our first at this outdoor location at Canmore Nordic Center. Smoke from the BC wildfires changed our photo plans just hours before our helicopter trip to the top of the Rockies for the couple’s photos. With heavy smoke, it became too dangerous to fly in the mountains so we found some locations around Canmore that were closer to the ground.

Black and white groom getting ready
Black and white groom getting ready
bride and groom veil in wind
bride and groom veil in wind
Bride and groom silhouette in mountains
Bride and groom silhouette in mountains

An Inveremere Wedding in Beautiful BC

We also found ourselves in Inveremere, BC photographing a wedding at the amazing ‘House of the Friesians‘. This spectacular property is my favorite wedding venue of 2021. As we made our way up the winding dirt road to the property, I began to wonder if we were on the right road. As we came around the corner we came across the owners of the property who simply said to us ‘When you are starting to wonder if you are lost, just keep going and you will find your way’…advice that holds true in life as well as for finding your way through this massive location.

The bride and groom got ready in their own spectacular locations before making their way to the meadow overlooking the mountain valley. In true fashion, our bride was brought to her wedding by a horse drawn carriage. It was a first for us and I sincerely hope not the last. A short drive took us to the cliffs overlooking the lake which made for spectacular wedding photos.

Inveremere bride on horse drawn carriage
Inveremere bride on horse drawn carriage
Inveremere wedding along the cliffs
Inveremere wedding along the cliffs
Inveremere wedding first dance
Inveremere wedding first dance

Glencoe Golf and Country Club provided the backdrop for our next wedding as we returned back to Calgary. With spectacular views from the clubhouse and grounds, this location is a Calgary photographers dream. Large windows ensure that the fall colors are seen from every angle. Our final wedding of the year brought us to The Ranch House, located just outside of Okotoks. A great location for an intimate wedding, the large rock fireplace provided the perfect backdrop for the wedding.

Calgary Wedding Groom getting ready
Calgary Wedding Groom getting ready
Calgary Glencoe Wedding Party
Calgary Glencoe Wedding Party
Glencoe Calgary Wedding at Sunset
Glencoe Calgary Wedding at Sunset

A New Ceremony for Calgary Photographers

We often get contacted for engagement and wedding photography, however it was a first for us to photograph a Syro Malabar engagement ceremony. It was a spectacular day filled with friend and family and many amazing dances. I love getting to know the families and forming a bond with them as well as the clients. In this case, the groom’s uncle insisted I try an ‘Indian Coffee’….another first for me and I guarantee it won’t be my last. AMAZING!!

Engagement Photographer Couple
Engagement Photographer Couple
Engagement Ceremony Couple
Engagement Ceremony Couple
Engagement Photography Reception
Engagement Photography Reception

New Staff Member

We love our photographers, and I truly believe that I get to work with some of the best in the city. Erin, our main second shooter, continues to work with us and provides incredible images to all our clients. Along with her great sense of humor, she is our top photographer and is loved by all our clients. Nathalie again proved she has an eye for capturing unique angles and absolutely rocked the weddings she worked with us at again this year.

We also hired a new associate who proved to be a fantastic addition to our team. Luka is young lady who has a knack for making clients feel comfortable and to let loose and have fun. We look forward to working with her on many more weddings in the coming years.

New Wedding Photography Equipment

This year was a big year for us as we made big use of our new lighting gear. Our new powerful strobes allow us to create many new looks even on the brightest of days. The remote systems continue to allow us to adjust settings while remaining hidden so we do not distract from our clients.

As the year came to an end, we also upgraded our camera system. We have been using a Canon 5D Mark III for the past number of years. It has been an amazing camera and a true workhorse in the photography industry. Like anything however, it came time to step it down from being our main camera and the search for a new camera began.

The Canon R5 mirrorless system is our new main camera. With 45 MegaPixels of resolution, and an incredible eye-tracking target focusing system, our photos are sharper than ever before. The new camera features a higher dynamic range and represents an incredible leap forward in camera technology. We are excited to be using this new state of the art system in all of this years photo sessions. As we always maintain two professional bodies, we still will have our 5D Mark III with us all the time as a back-up.

Adapting to Maintain the Business

I have always had an interest in product photography. All the tricks and techniques to make the images that make a product look so incredible. As the wedding photography industry came to a grinding halt, it seemed to be the perfect time to look at diversifying our little business. With that the Calgary Product Photography side of our business was born.

It has proven to be a great new service line as we offer composite images, images for Amazon listings, and a multitude of other options. From artwork, to plumbing fixtures, to dog toys we have photographed a wide range of items and continue to grow on a near daily basis.

While some people believe that you should stay focused in only one area, ie: weddings, family, etc, a strong and diverse background help us stay on the forefront of Calgary photographers. Using our skills learned doing product photography, allows us to create incredible ring and detail photos when doing wedding photography. Likewise, using tips from headshot photography ensures that our bride and groom portraits look their best.

Calgary Product Photography Faucet
Calgary Product Photography Faucet
Calgary Product Photographer - Suspended Faucet
Calgary Product Photography – Suspended Faucet

Headshot Photography

We had many people this year take part in our headshot photography sessions. From actors to business executives and a variety of people in between, this year our headshot photography was kept busy. Sessions were kept quick and easy and our lighting set-up allows us to have a quick turn around for our clients. While our studio…aka our garage, could use a make-over, it worked great for the purpose we needed it for. Our headshot set-up also is fully mobile allowing us to pack it up and take it virtually anywhere, ideal for a company that is looking for new headshots for its staff members.

Calgary Headshot
YYC Headshot photographer
Calgary Headshot Photographer
Calgary Headshot Photographer

All New Website and Galleries

If you are familiar with our website, you likely noticed a massive change in it earlier this year. After growing beyond what our previous host was capable of providing us, we branched out on our own and developed and coded our own website. The new website allows us much greater access to share information with all our clients and potential future clients, while allowing us the ability to work behind the scenes to keep us ranking well with Google’s ever changing algorithm. To say this was a HUGE learning curve is an understatement however I think the final product is definitely worth it.

Along with a new website, we have new gallery hosting. While there is a slight con, in that we can only have 25,000 images in the system, by cycling the photos out after a year, we are able to ensure there is room in the system for all the upcoming weddings and events that we photograph. The new gallery offer us many more options and new vendors that allow us to supply high quality images and products to our clients. In the end the new system is a great new addition to our online presence.

As always, we continued to offer our preschool and kindergarten photo sessions, which were once again a huge hit. With every graduate getting their own cap and gown to keep, the smiles were endless. Family sessions were also big this year as we had clients from as far away as San Francisco come to Calgary and have family sessions done.

While early 2021 definitely proved to be a challenge, it will be remembered as one of our best years. New friends, new venues, and new vendors all came together to turn the 2021 photography season into a great success. We have many more exciting events scheduled for 2022 so be sure to follow along and see what the coming year has in store for us. From product photography, to wedding photography, to headshots, and virtually everything in between, your Calgary photographers are working hard and constantly introducing new techniques to keep everything looking great.


Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional photograph.  Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Engagement Photographer Couple

Beautiful Syro Malabar Engagement Ceremony

When we were asked to provide photography for a Syro Malabar engagement ceremony here in Calgary, I have to admit, I had to to some serious research. It turns out that it is a beautiful full day ceremony that is similar to what we would view as a traditional wedding. We love having the opportunity to experience new cultures and ceremonies, we always work with our couples, and do lots of research, to ensure that we have photographers in the correct position for the important parts of the day.

Syro Malabar Engagement Ceremony

Syro Malabar is a sect of Catholicism with roots tracing back to Southern India. The full day event begins with hair and make-up for the ladies while the guys get ready at a separate location. Make-up by Miss Lu provided the hair and make-up services and were fantastic to work with making all the girls look their absolute best. Arriving at the church, in this case it was the beautiful Mary Mother of the Redeemer church in Calgary, the girls were all dressed in stunning dresses. Archana, our soon to be fiancé, arrived in a beautiful red dress and looked positively incredible.

While I was photographing Arun getting ready, I was treated to what his uncle referred to as ‘Indian Coffee’. To clarify, I LOVE coffee and have been fortunate to try many different kinds in many countries around the world. I was a little skeptical however when he grabbed a glass jar out of the cupboard and made instant coffee. Let me tell you…it was amazing. BRU Coffee is going to become a regular staple in our household.

The church ceremony was a smaller affair, due to restrictions, held with close friends and family. As Archana walked down the aisle towards her soon to be fiancé, the smiles they both had warmed the hearts of everyone in attendance. The ceremony progressed and with an exchange of rings, our couple were engaged.

Despite the cold weather, we were able to capture some great formal photos of the couple outside of the church as people started to prepare for the reception still to come. Archana and Arun were absolute champs as they posed and repositioned despite the snow and cooler weather that had moved into the region.

The Reception

The Courtyard by Marriott – Calgary South provided the reception space and catering for the evening. The meal was delicious and everyone had more than enough. There were several traditional dances which displayed the incredible workmanship in each of the dresses and the wonderful choreography and practice that were put in to creating the dances. Archana had a second dress for the evening portion which was just as beautiful as the first dress.

Aside from the traditional dances, the reception goers were treated to a Latin dance class which had everyone moving and twisting like professionals in no time…okay, maybe not professionals but better than they were earlier in the night.

As the night got later, the party got into full swing with tons of dancing and partying. 1729 DJ took over and set the atmosphere with great music and lighting. We headed out as the party was getting into full swing. No doubt this party went late into the evening with lots of laughing and fun.

Syro Malabar Fiance
Fiancé
Engagement Ceremony First Look
First Look
Engagement Ceremony Couple
Couple
Engagement Photography Couple
Engaged Couple
Engagement Photographer Couple
Couple
Engagement Reception Dance
Reception Dance
Syro Malabar Reception Dance
Syro Malabar Reception Dance
Engagement Ceremony Party
Reception Party
Engagement Photography Reception
Reception Dancing
Calgary Engagement Photography Party
Calgary Party

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Calgary Product Photography Faucet

Calgary Product Photographers – Beautiful Bathroom Faucet

While we have primarily focused on wedding photography, last year we decided to branch out and now have a full Product Photography section. We have been fortunate to work with some great people and photograph their great products. In today’s post, we look at a great company called ArcLiving and their ultra cool bathroom faucet.

Based out of Calgary, ArcLiving is a supplier of home hardware products. This particular bathroom faucet they actually designed themselves and features an assortment of great features including a linear water spout and easy to mount hardware system.

We actually hung the faucet and associated lines in order to capture the full assembly. We then dismantled the components to showcase some of the individual components on their own, Finally we utilized a grouping of lights, lexan sheet, backdrops, and wooden risers to create a showcase image.

With this particular product, we are fortunate to be able to have it onsite for an extended period while ArcLiving receives other products which are currently in transit. We plan to do some cool shots in the coming weeks, to really showcase some of the awesome things that we can do. Keep watching our Calgary Product Photography page to see some of the great new shots and products we will be featuring.

Calgary Product Photographer

Calgary Product Photography Faucet
Calgary Product Photography Faucet
Calgary Product Photographer - Suspended Faucet
Calgary Product Photographer – Suspended Faucet
Calgary Amazon Listing Photography
Calgary Amazon Listing Photography

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

bride and groom veil in wind

Incredible Canmore Nordic Center Wedding

Jalen and Samuel are such a great couple. From the moment we first met, they struck a chord with us as being a fun down to earth couple that shared a great love for each other. The wedding took place at the incredible Canmore Nordic Center at one of the outdoor ceremony sites.

The couple each got ready at the beautiful Blackstone Mountain Lodge in Canmore. Located only 20 minutes from Banff National Park, Blackstone Mountain Lodge features a heated outdoor pool that is open year round, a modern fitness facility, and a BBQ area with stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. This is one of our favorite hotels to photograph at.

Jalen and the girls were treated to a full hair styling from the great people at Something Borrowed Beauty with make-up being provided by the amazing Trena Laine Makeup Company. The guys looked equally amazing in the suits as they prepared themselves for the big day.

Canmore Nordic Center Wedding

Three Sisters Transportation provided service to move people from the hotel to the venue and were fantastic to work with, accommodating the last minute request due to some changes with the day. With the ceremony location set up by Cornerstone Weddings, with beautiful floral arrangement by Incredible Florist, we could not have asked for a more photogenic location. Overlooking Canmore and the Rocky Mountains, the scenery provided the perfect backdrop to the absolutely stunning wedding party. Officiated by the Bride’s father, this was a truly wonderful ceremony.

With the ceremony complete, we transitioned to the photo part of the day. We utilized the stunning scenery to capture images of our wedding party before whisking the newly wed couple away for their photos. Original plans included a chartered helicopter to bring us to the mountain tops for spectacular photos, unfortunately, the smoke became so thick it quickly became apparent that we had to transition to plan B and take photos at ground level. We quickly whisked the couple to some of our favorite locations and captured a wonderful series of photos with them.

As reception time neared, we quickly returned to the reception space at the Canmore Nordic Center. Catered by the the amazing people at Cornerstone Weddings, the meal and service was outstanding. Along with the an incredible three layer cake, Cornerstone had outdone themselves.

The party began and continued well into the night with music provided by Vegas Entertainment. They kept the party going until well after we had left with all the best music.

Having a ‘Plan B’…sometimes even a Plan C, D, E allows your wedding day to unfold with a minimal amount of stress. Watching weather forecasts, construction, public gatherings, etc. help to ensure that your day is perfect. Ensuring your vendors have contingency plans for weather, equipment issues is a requirement for professional vendors. Always be sure to ask about their backup plans.

Many thanks to Luca for working with us for this wedding.

Black and white groom getting ready
Black and white groom getting ready
Bride and groom on treed path
Bride and groom on treed path
bride and groom rock face
bride and groom rock face
bride and groom veil in wind
Bride and groom veil in wind
Bride and groom in trees
Bride and groom in trees
Bride and groom silhouette in mountains
Bride and groom silhouette in mountains
Bride and groom close up
Bride and groom close up
Three tier wedding cake
Three tier wedding cake
Bride and Groom first dance at Canmore Nordic Center
Bride and Groom first dance
Wedding couple first dance Canmore
Couple first dance at reception

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Glencoe Calgary Wedding at Sunset

Stunning Glencoe Golf Course Wedding Day

Glencoe Golf and Country Club

For those not familiar with the Glencoe Golf and Country Club, it is one of the top Golf and Country Clubs in the country. Visited by Calgary’s elite, it was the perfect location for Andrea and Mark to host their beautiful wedding. Andrea and Mark are an amazing couple who were so much fun to be around and had smiles on their faces for the entire day.

The day started with The bride and groom getting ready at their respective locations. I started with the Mark and his groomsmen and a beautiful home in the heart of Calgary. Mark’s family is extremely musically inclined and there were many songs sung in perfect harmony as they were getting ready. The entry way at the house provided the perfect location to capture Mark getting ready and provided the backdrop for some great wedding ring photos.

The groom and groomsmen looked fantastic in custom tailored suits created by Michel’s Bespoke. Michel’s Bespoke is a luxury clothier that provides bespoke tailoring and personalized services for the impeccably dressed groom. Based in Toronto, Ontario, they are THE tailor for top of the line custom suits.

Andrea and her bridal party prepared for the big day in a private room at the Glencoe Golf and Country Club and were treated to stunning hair and make-up, provided by the always amazing Trena Laine. We love seeing Trena at our weddings as there are few people that have such a magic touch. All the girls looked stunning in their dresses, provided by The Bridal Boutique in Calgary. The bride’s dress was a Louie: Made With Love and was absolutely incredible in design and look.

The Ceremony and Reception

The grounds of the golf course provided the perfect location for amazing first look and couple’s photos prior to the afternoon ceremony. The outdoor ceremony overlooked the beautiful fall colors and the Rocky mountains in the distance. With a friend of the family officiating the ceremony, it was a tear jerking ceremony as Mark’s family sung music and the couple read personal vows to each other.

The day continued with cocktail hour on the patio of the country club as everyone had the opportunity to congratulate the couple and spend time with them prior to dinner and dancing.

As the evening set in, the reception moved into the ballroom. With tall windows looking out over the fall colors and mountains, and a high wall of windows behind the head table, there were no shortage of views for people to look out over. The meal was catered by the Glencoe and was exquisite in all aspects. Their staff are absolutely amazing and truly professional all day.

As dinner and speeches concluded, our newly married couple had their first dance – with a twist. Anyone familiar with the movie ‘Pulp Fiction’ would recognize the dance performed by John Travolta and Uma Thurman in the movie. It fit perfect with the evening and was the perfect way to get the party started.

A thank-you goes out to Courtney from Glencoe Golf Course for her terrific work in the planning and ensuring everything went off flawless throughout the day. We also got the opportunity to work alongside Justin and Ixchel from Parfait Productions – Wedding Cinematography who are masters in their field. Finally a big thank-you to Erin for all the tremendous work you do second shooting for us.

Calgary Wedding Groom getting ready
Groom getting ready
Calgary Wedding Groom Suit
Calgary Groom In His Suit
Calgary Glencoe Wedding Rings
Rings
Calgary Glencoe Wedding Party
Calgary Glencoe Golf Course Wedding Party
Glencoe Wedding Groom Portrait
Groom Portrait
Bride Groom Glencoe Wedding Calgary
Bride and Groom
Glencoe Calgary Wedding at Sunset
Bride and Groom at Sunset

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Black and white groom getting ready

5 Tips For The Groom To Look His Best

We all know how much time and energy the bride and her girls put into looking their absolute best for the wedding day. Isn’t it only fair that the groom and the guys look their best as well? Well, here are our five top tips to make sure the guys are looking their absolute best.

Making The Groom Look His Best

1. Develop a Workout Routine

This is something that should be started early, and not the week before the wedding. Whether you are an avid gym goer or the occasional jogger, this is the perfect time to look at your fitness goals for your wedding day and tailor your program to meet them. Set realistic goals and plan some times to analyze your progress. The week prior to your wedding, do not attempt to set personal records, maintain a well rounded program ensuring you get plenty of rest in the days leading up to the wedding

2. Start a Skin Care Program

Just like you workout routine, start your skin care routine well in advance of your wedding day. Be sure to drink plenty of water and to eat healthy balanced meals. Hydration and Clean Eating are the keys here. That is not to say, you can’t indulge on occasion, but do your best to develop some great habits in the time leading up to your big day.

A healthy skin care program consists of four steps: Cleanse – Rinse your face with warm water to help open your pores and get rid of anything that found it’s way onto your face. Lather up using your favorite face wash, lightly scrubbing in circular patterns. Rinse off the face wash using cold water, ensuring you clean off all the face wash. The cold water will shrink the pores again.

Next is Exfoliating – Using a quality face scrub, you want to do this a maximum of 2 or 3 times a week to remove dead skin and oils. Using light pressure from your finger tips, gently work in circular patterns. Never press too hard or aggressively. Again, rinse off the scrub with cold water.

Our next step is using a Toner – Toners help restore the natural pH balance of your skin, helps to disinfect, and finally aids in closing your pores. Use a quality toner made of natural products, and try to avoid alcohol based toners as they may dry out your skin. Apply the toner using a small facial pad to ensure it is applied evenly

Finally, our last step is Moisturizing – Moisturizers help hydrate your skin, keeps your skin cells healthy and firm, and helps slow down the aging process of the skin itself. Using a quality moisturizer, will give your skin the radiant glow that everyone wants. Depending on your environment and skin type, you may have to apply the moisturizer more or less often. One thing for sure, always apply it after doing a full skin routine.

3. A Well Fitting Suit is Critical

Just like your bride to be will spend considerable time finding the perfect dress and getting it fitted perfectly for her, guys will always look and feel better in a perfectly tailored suit. Be sure to give yourself lots of time to find the perfect suit for yourself that guys and that you get them tailored to fit you properly.

While you are getting your suit tailored, this is the perfect time to learn how to fold your pocket square. Whether it is a basic square or an elaborate folded design, now is the perfect time to decide on what you like.

4. Get A Professional Haircut and Beard Trim

Approximately a week and half prior, get a professional haircut and beard trim. If you are thinking of trying an all new style, do it in the months prior, not the week prior. Give yourself the time to try the new style and be sure you like and it suits you. Getting the haircut the week prior, also gives your hair time to adjust to the recent cut and will learn how to lay. It is generally best to stick with a classic look rather than a trendy new style that may make photos look dated as styles change.

Avoid using too much styling products, and be sure to use quality hair care products. While you may pay a bit extra for a quality product, the results will be far superior and you will need less of it in the long run.

Our friends at South Trail Barber Shop, here in Calgary, are experts at making guys look their best. Featuring Canada’s largest barbershop, they have the experience and talent to ensure you and your guys look the absolute best. Be sure to check them out prior to your day.

5. Look After Your Hands And Nails

This may seem like an awkward point in many guys’ to-do list, however well manicured hands and nails are always a standout. Talk with your favorite nail salon in your area and find the one that is right for you. If you’ve never had a manicure, then allow us to sell you on it: They snip away hangnails and cuticles, trim and round the nails, buff dead skin and blisters, then moisturize in their wake, plus you get an insanely satisfying hand massage. Your hands are going to be photographed a thousand times over the day, ensure they look their best.

Black and white groom getting ready
Black and white groom getting ready for his wedding
Wedding Photography magic After image
Wedding Photography in Calgary

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Inveremere wedding along the cliffs

Incredible Inveremere Wedding at House of The Friesians

House of the Friesians – Inveremere, BC

I have to admit that although I live just a few hours from Inveremere, BC I have never really visited the region.  So, when Stephenie and Matt told us about their wedding at the House of the Friesians, I had to do some research.  What I found however was of no comparison to the absolute beauty of the region and the venue itself.  Located approximately 20 minutes outside of the town of Inveremere, the House of the Friesians sits on 160 acres of incredible majesty. 

The site is equipped with a stunning cabin, perfect for the bride and her girls to get ready in, along with a large stable that has an upstairs level which has been transformed into the perfect area for the groom and his guys. 

The outdoor ceremony site offers an incredible view of the Kootenay’s.  The reception hall features a floor to ceiling glass wall so the view of the mountains is never lost.  Equipped with an outdoor dance floor and overhead lights, this is one of the most beautiful venues we have ever photographed at.  If you watch closely, this facility and it’s horses have been featured in some of Hollywood’s biggest movies.

The owners of the property, Caio and Gerard, were nothing but incredible and offered advice on our initial arrival that while meant for driving to the location, carries over well into regular life.  While I pride myself on being good with directions, I wasn’t sure I was on the right road, when all of a sudden I cam across a family sitting at a picnic table next to their house.  Caio simply directed me further on down the road with the simple calm words ‘When you are unsure of where you are, simply push on and you will arrive where you should be’. 

With that in mind, we followed the road just a short distance further and we arrived right where we needed to be.  Caio and Gerard are a fantastic couple with a super interesting background, if visiting the site, I encourage you to talk with them about their past and how they have arrived at this point in their life.  

The Big Day

We started the day photographing the bride and her girls in what we referred to as the ‘Getting Ready Cabin’.  Stephenie and her girls were so much fun and there were no shortage of smiles and laughs as they prepared for the big day.  I meanwhile, went to the stable and photographed Matt and his guys.  In typical guy fashion, they were ready in under 6 minutes which led to some rapid shooting to capture everything.  The stable living area is so large that it was actually quite difficult to ensure that I captured all the guys and the action.

As the ceremony time approached, we made the short walk through the trees to the ceremony site.  As the time approached, the guys walked through the path emerging from the trees while stunning bridesmaids came down a grassy path to the ceremony site.   At that moment we heard singing coming from the private road back in the trees and heard the sound of large hooves galloping. 

Moments later, our stunning bride emerged from the trees in a carriage pulled by a beautiful black horse and was brought to the head of the aisle.  The ceremony, overlooking the mountain valley, was officiated by the bride’s father which was a special touch that the bride will hold dear for the rest of her life.

While we did the bridal party and family photos on the property, we took the bride and groom to a nearby site for their formal photographs.  We loved the dramatic look offered by the cliffs that overlook the mountains and lake below.  The weather was perfect as the sun provided a great warmth while the slight breeze provided a welcome relief.

Dinner and Dancing

We traveled back to the House of the Friesians for the reception which was catered by my new favorite catering vendor, Farm + Fork Catered Events.  Based out of Calgary, this vendor also traveled to create an absolutely incredible meal.   I totally recommend their ’24 Hour Hickory Smoked 7k Ranch Beef Brisket’ – I literally could have eaten nothing but that and been totally satisfied.  The added ‘Honey Glazed Wood Smoked Chicken’, ‘Three Cheese Mac N Cheese’ and the ‘Smoked Cheddar Pomme Puree’ (mashed potatoes) topped off this incredible meal and were equally amazing.  

When the meal and speeches concluded, the party moved outside where the bride and groom shared their first dance under a beautiful sky highlighted against the mountain backdrop. When we left, the party was getting into full swing and am sure that it went well into the night.

We also got to work with the great people at the Camera Crew Co. who provided videography for day. A totally professional videography company that we look forward to working with again.

Inveremere wedding along the cliffs
Bride and groom along the cliffs
Cabin at the House of the Friesians
The ‘Getting Ready Cabin’
Wedding rings at the House of the Friesians
Wedding rings
Reception hall at the House of the Friesians
Reception hall at the House of the Friesians
Wedding dress at House of the Friesians
Wedding dress at House of the Friesians
Inveremere groom getting ready for wedding
Groom getting ready for the big day
Inveremere bride in the trees with horse
Bride about to arrive
Inveremere bride on horse drawn carriage
Bride and her mother on carriage
Inveremere wedding spot at House of the Friesians
Inveremere wedding spot at House of the Friesians
Stunning bride at Inveremere wedding
Stunning bride
Wedding party at the House of the Friesians
Bridal party at the House of the Friesians
Inveremere wedding overlooking mountains
Bride and groom overlooking lake
Inveremere wedding first dance
Bride and groom first dance
Groom dancing at Inveremere wedding
Groom dancing at wedding
Dancing at the House of the Friesians
Dancing at the House of the Friesians wedding
Wedding dancing at the House of the Friesians
Bride and groom at their wedding

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

Follow along with our social media pages here on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest projects.

Calgary bride and groom

A Coptic Orthodox Calgary Wedding

Meet Lisa and Roni, one of our wonderful Calgary wedding couples from 2019. They are fortunate to be able to split their time between Calgary and the Caribbean, while attending post graduate school. Communicating primarily by email, we were able to organize all the details and timelines. As the date approached, we were excited for this wedding. In addition to being featured here, a part of this wedding will be featured in another blog pos. t We plan to show off some behind the scenes photo magic and reveal a secret or two. Keep an eye out for how we shift the color of the backlit mirror and produce a more flattering image.


An Incredible Calgary Wedding


It was our first experience photographing a Coptic Orthodox ceremony. The amazing ceremony at St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church, Calgary left us in awe. Located in a spectacular church, combined with ornate clothing and capes, and all topped by an incredible ceremony.

After the ceremony, we headed off to do formals at some nearby parks and locations towards downtown. First stop of the photo tour, offering fantastic views of downtown, was Tom Campbell Hill. Afterward, providing an opportunity to be more creative, East Village and the National Music Center, were our next must stop locations. Finally, a quick stop at SAIT allowed us to round out our photo locations. These multiple stops ensure our couples have a wide selection of images and styles.

Completing the photos, we headed to the Carriage House Inn for an amazing reception. Located in South Calgary, the Carriage House always does an incredible job hosting wedding receptions. As always, we were excited to have the opportunity to work there once again.

In addition to a fantastic main banquet room, a great space for cocktail hour sits just outside the doors. While final touches are put on the main room, your guests can mingle just feet away from the reception preparations.

Congratulations to you both on your Calgary wedding, and we wish you all the best. Finally, many thanks to Erin for all her amazing work with this wedding!!