Among the breathtaking mountains of the Kootenays, Estelle Gonord has found her calling as a wedding photographer who thrives on spontaneity, connection, and the raw beauty of life’s most cherished moments. Originally from the south of France, Estelle and her husband made the life-changing decision in 2016 to pack up their lives into two suitcases and move to Canada. What started as an adventure quickly turned into a love affair with the Kootenay lifestyle—its rugged landscapes, outdoor activities, and tight-knit community. Today, Estelle is not only a proud mom to a lively little boy and three adorable fur babies but also a passionate storyteller behind the lens.
From Disposable Cameras to Dream Career
Estelle’s journey into photography is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Growing up, she was fascinated by the disposable cameras she’d use to capture “everything and nothing.” Yet, she never imagined photography would become her career. After earning a degree in kinesiology in France, Estelle moved to Canada and found herself captivated by the country’s natural beauty.
“Seeing an eagle fly for the first time was surreal,” she recalls. “I wanted to capture that moment, but my phone just wasn’t cutting it.” In 2019, she bought her first camera—a beginner Nikon kit—and began experimenting with wildlife and landscape photography. What started as a hobby soon turned into a passion, and by 2022, Estelle had fully embraced wedding photography.
Her first wedding was a friend’s celebration in France, where she shadowed a professional photographer. “I was hooked,” she says. “I loved the energy, the emotions, and the connections between people.” That experience inspired her to take the leap into wedding photography back in Canada, where she quickly built a reputation for her ability to make couples feel at ease and capture their day with authenticity and joy.
A Style Rooted in Connection
Estelle’s approach to wedding photography is a blend of documentary storytelling and thoughtful direction. “I love the candid, unposed moments—the ones where people forget the camera is there,” she says. “But I also know when to step in and guide couples, especially if they need a little help feeling comfortable.”
Her ability to adapt to each couple’s unique dynamic is one of her greatest strengths. “Some couples need more direction, while others are natural in front of the camera. My job is to meet them where they are and capture their story in a way that feels true to them.”
This balance of spontaneity and direction has resonated with her clients, who often praise her for making them feel relaxed and confident. “I’ve had couples tell me they felt like I was part of their wedding party,” she says with a smile. “That’s the best compliment I could ask for.”
Building a Business with Heart
In just a few short years, Estelle has grown her business from shooting a handful of weddings to booking over 15 in a single season. Much of her success comes from word-of-mouth referrals and her active presence in local Facebook groups. “I’ve been lucky to connect with couples who appreciate my work and trust me to capture their day,” she says.
While she’s still refining her brand and style, Estelle’s passion for photography shines through in every image she creates. “I’m in a phase where I’m really exploring what makes me unique as a photographer,” she admits. “But I know I love capturing the connections between people—the little moments that tell the bigger story.”
A Life Beyond the Lens
When she’s not photographing weddings, Estelle enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the great outdoors, and indulging her love of street photography. “I’m a nature enthusiast at heart,” she says. “Being outside and capturing the beauty of the world around me is what fuels my creativity.”
As she looks to the future, Estelle is excited to continue growing her business and exploring new opportunities. “I’d love to travel more for weddings once my little one is older,” she says. “But for now, I’m focused on building a business that allows me to do what I love while being present for my family.”
Why Couples Choose Estelle
What sets Estelle apart is her ability to make couples feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Her clients often describe her as approachable, easygoing, 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.”
For couples looking for a photographer who values authenticity over perfection, Estelle Gonord is a perfect match. She’s not just capturing weddings—she’s celebrating love, connection, and the beautifully imperfect moments that make each couple’s story unique.
Website: gonordphotography.com
Instagram: @estellegonordphotography
