In the heart of Calgary, Emily Walcot has built a thriving career as a wedding photographer who thrives on authenticity, connection, and a deep love for storytelling. With a creative spirit that’s been nurtured since childhood, Emily brings a unique blend of artistry and warmth to every wedding she photographs. Her journey from graphic designer to full-time photographer is a testament to her passion for capturing life’s most meaningful moments—and her commitment to making her clients feel seen, celebrated, and completely themselves.
A Creative Soul from the Start
Emily’s love for the arts began early, nurtured by her time at a creative arts-centered school where every subject was infused with a touch of creativity. “I’ve always known I wanted to do something creative,” she says. “But it took me a while to figure out exactly what that would look like.”
Her first foray into photography came at the age of 13, when she purchased her first DSLR with hard-earned babysitting money. “I’ve always had a camera in my hand,” she recalls. “My dad and I would go camping, and we’d take photos of landscapes and wildlife together. It was our thing.”
From Graphic Design to Full-Time Photography
Emily’s career initially took her down the path of graphic design, where she spent eight years creating logos, websites, and branding materials. While she enjoyed the creative aspects of the job, she often felt boxed in by the constraints of corporate branding guidelines. “I could only be as creative as my clients allowed me to be,” she says. “It was fulfilling, but it didn’t give me the freedom I craved.”
Everything changed in 2020 when Emily got married. Her wedding photographer not only captured her day beautifully but also became a mentor, sparking Emily’s interest in pursuing photography as a career. “She was more than just a photographer—she was a sounding board, a guide, and a source of inspiration,” Emily says. “That experience made me realize I could do this too.”
Building a Business with Heart
Emily launched her photography business in 2021, starting with engagement shoots and small weddings. Her first wedding came through word of mouth, and from there, her career took off. “I fell in love with the energy of weddings,” she says. “It’s such a special day, filled with so much love and emotion. Capturing those moments is incredibly rewarding.”
What sets Emily apart is her ability to make her clients feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. “I’m not there to take over the day or force moments,” she explains. “I’m there to document it as it unfolds, capturing the genuine connections and emotions that make each wedding unique.”
Her clients often describe her as kind, approachable, and deeply invested in their story. “I want my couples to feel like they can be themselves,” she says. “When they’re relaxed, that’s when the magic happens.”
A Love for Canmore and Beyond
Emily’s work often takes her to the stunning landscapes of Canmore and the Canadian Rockies, where she feels most inspired. “There’s something magical about shooting in the mountains,” she says. “The light, the scenery, the energy—it’s all so breathtaking.”
One of her favorite weddings took place at a Cornerstone Theatre in Canmore, where she captured the couple’s intimate ceremony and portraits against the backdrop of the rugged mountains. “It was such a special day, and being able to document it was an honor,” she says.
Looking Ahead
As Emily looks to the future, she’s excited to continue growing her business and exploring new opportunities. “I feel so grateful to do what I love,” she says. “Every wedding is a reminder of why I started this journey—to celebrate love in all its forms and to create images that will be cherished for generations.”
For couples seeking a photographer who values authenticity, connection, and a touch of mountain magic, Emily Walcot is the perfect choice. Her ability to capture the heart and soul of a wedding day—with all its beauty, emotion, and spontaneity—is what makes her work truly unforgettable.
Website: emilywalcotphotography.com
Instagram: @emilywalcot.photo
