Amid the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia, where towering mountains meet serene coastlines, Keely Rae is redefining what it means to be a wedding photographer. At just 24, Keely has carved a niche for herself in the competitive wedding industry, blending soulful artistry with an intuitive grasp of human connection. Her style, marked by timeless elegance and honest storytelling, has resonated with couples looking for something more than just posed pictures—they’re seeking a visual narrative that captures the heart of their day.
Keely’s journey into wedding photography began unconventionally, emerging from a period of reflection and reinvention. During the pandemic, as life slowed down and the world shifted, Keely found herself drawn to film photography—a medium she’d never truly explored before. What started as a simple experiment sparked by boredom and curiosity soon turned into a full-blown passion. She dedicated herself to learning the craft, pouring hours into refining her technique, and by the time the pandemic ended, Keely knew she had found her calling.
At first, she didn’t realize the impact her newfound love for film would have on her career. The idea of blending both film and digital photography into her work was just an organic part of her creative evolution. But to her surprise, many of her clients started approaching her specifically for her expertise in film photography. It wasn’t something she had anticipated, yet it became clear that film was an integral part of what made her work stand out. "I see beauty in both film and digital," she says, explaining that the two mediums serve different purposes but together create a balanced narrative of emotion and artistry.
Fresh out of university and on the heels of a global pandemic, she dove headfirst into her craft, skipping the traditional corporate nine-to-five many of her peers pursued. This leap of faith wasn’t just a career choice but a lifestyle commitment. “I love the off-season,” she shares, referring to the winter months when her calendar slows down. “It feels integrated with rest, which makes sense to me. I use that time to reset, dive into hobbies, and remind myself why I love this job.”
Her passion for storytelling is evident not only in her images but also in how she approaches her clients. “You could take the most incredible, technically perfect photos,” she reflects, “but if you don’t connect with your clients or understand their story, the photos won’t mean as much.” For Keely, wedding photography is more than a technical skill set. It’s about mastering social intelligence, reading her couples’ energy, and creating a comfortable space where authentic moments can unfold naturally.
The Art of Connection
Keely’s ability to connect deeply with her clients sets her apart. Her process starts long before the wedding day, with meaningful conversations aimed at understanding each couple’s dynamic. “Every client is different,” she explains. “Some are nervous, some are shy, and my job is to help them feel seen and safe. It’s like being a detective sometimes—figuring out how to move past the normal social barriers to capture who they truly are.”
This intuition and adaptability shine through in her portfolio. Drawing inspiration from nostalgic wedding albums and the candid charm of old Vogue photography, Keely’s work carries a sense of timelessness. Her photos feel less like snapshots and more like intimate, cinematic moments—the kind you’d find tucked away in a treasured family album.
The Long Game
For Keely, success in wedding photography isn’t about overnight acclaim. “This is a long game,” she emphasizes. “If you really want to succeed, you have to be ready for the decade it might take to get where you want to be.” That patience is evident in how she’s approached her career, prioritizing genuine artistry over flashy trends.
This dedication also means navigating the unique challenges of the job. Wedding photography can be isolating, with irregular schedules and high-pressure situations. But for Keely, the lifestyle—however unconventional—aligns perfectly with her values. “It’s interesting to see friends my age in corporate jobs with structured lives, but I’ve embraced the ebb and flow of this career. It lets me live intentionally, balancing work with moments of rest and inspiration.”
Life Beyond the Lens
When she’s not photographing weddings, Keely’s life is a tapestry of simple joys and creative pursuits. Having recently moved to Squamish, a beautiful coastal town north of Vancouver, she spends her free time volunteering at local horse ranches, exploring nature, and indulging in her love of reading and self-discovery. These moments of stillness and connection fuel her creative vision, helping her approach each new season with fresh eyes.
Her work’s authenticity has earned her a loyal client base, drawn to her laidback yet intentional approach. Couples often remark on how seamlessly she blends into their day, capturing moments without imposing on them. For Keely, it’s about more than just being a photographer; it’s about being a trusted presence on one of the most important days of a couple’s life.
The Future of Wedding Photography
As the wedding industry continues to evolve, Keely sees a shift toward intimacy and authenticity—values that resonate deeply with her philosophy. “People are moving away from overproduced, cookie-cutter weddings and focusing on what truly matters to them,” she observes. “It’s an exciting time to be in this field.”
For Keely, the future is about staying true to her roots while continuing to refine her craft. Her advice to aspiring photographers? “Learn the basics so well that they’re second nature, but don’t stop there. Hone your observation skills, connect with people, and above all, stay curious.”
With her unique blend of technical skill, artistic vision, and heartfelt connection, Keely Rae is poised to leave an indelible mark on Canadian wedding photography. As she looks ahead to the coming years, one thing is clear: for Keely, this is only the beginning.
Website: keelyraephotography.com
Instagram: @keelyrae_photography
