Kenneth Chan didn’t set out to become a wedding photographer. In fact, he started his career in a field seemingly worlds away from weddings — engineering. But between late-night astrophotography sessions, a growing love of storytelling, and the quiet influence of mentors who saw something special in him, Kenneth found himself pulled in a new direction: one where science met sentiment, and precision met emotion.
Today, as the founder of Janoi Studio, Kenneth photographs 25 to 35 weddings a year across Alberta, British Columbia, and beyond. His work blends the intentionality of documentary photography with a subtle, human touch. “People hear ‘documentary’ and think there’s no guidance,” he explains. “But I’m always helping my couples feel confident — choosing the best light, making small adjustments. It’s about letting moments unfold naturally, while still making them beautiful.”
A Style Rooted in Authenticity
Kenneth’s images are calm, clean, and timeless — true-to-life in colour and tone, but full of soul. He shoots primarily with prime lenses on Sony cameras and edits everything himself in Lightroom. His aesthetic is inspired by a love of cinematic visuals and a desire to keep things as natural as possible: “I aim to get everything right in-camera. Editing should enhance, not mask.”
While his approach stays consistent — focusing on light, composition, and storytelling — Kenneth tailors each session to his couples. “Every couple is different, so the way I shoot always adapts,” he says. “But the heart of it stays the same: telling the full story, thoughtfully and honestly.”
From Engineering to Emotion
Born in Calgary and raised in Hong Kong before returning to Alberta at age eight, Kenneth was always a little bit of a dreamer — drawing, making home videos, playing piano and saxophone — but like many children of immigrant parents, he pursued a “practical” career path first. After studying Geomatics Engineering, he found himself uninspired by the monotony of office work and began freelancing photography with friends on weekends.
Those first few weddings were hectic. “We were figuring it out as we went,” he laughs. But everything shifted when Kenneth joined the associate team of Justine Milton, one of Calgary’s top wedding photographers — who, as fate would have it, had also shot Kenneth’s own wedding. Her mentorship helped sharpen his eye for light, elevate his technical skills, and gave him the confidence to shape his own voice behind the lens.
“Justine was so generous with her time. She answered every question. That support changed everything.”
Building a Brand on Meaning
The name Janoi (a westernized pinyin of Cantonese for “true love”) reflects Kenneth’s personal roots — and his deeper mission: to tell love stories honestly. His typical clients are adventurous, laid-back couples drawn to natural landscapes and emotional storytelling. Many are camera-shy at first, but Kenneth’s calm presence and gentle direction quickly put them at ease.
Couples often remark on his balance of professionalism and personality. “They say I don’t miss a moment — and that I make the whole experience feel fun and relaxed,” he says. “That means a lot.”
Looking Ahead
While Janoi Studio already maintains a busy schedule, Kenneth is steadily building toward a full-time career in photography. He envisions a future filled with meaningful connections, destination weddings, and a continued commitment to growth.
“I’ve always loved love stories,” he says. “Growing up, I was obsessed with cheesy Asian dramas and rom-coms. Weddings are the real-life version of that — it’s the one day where you get to pause and just celebrate love. Being the person who gets to document that… it’s everything.”
Even in the busiest months — when the editing queue is long, and the body is tired — the thrill of light, connection, and creativity keeps him going. “Shooting is always the most energizing part. No matter how drained I feel, being out there with my couples — that always brings me back.”
Website: janoistudio.com
Instagram: @janoistudio