In the fast-paced chaos of a wedding day—lace bustling, champagne fizzing, laughter echoing—it’s easy to miss the small, meaningful moments. But not if you’re Eric Draht. Camera in hand, with the calm presence of someone who’s seen a thousand “I dos,” Eric waits quietly for the real magic: a nervous hand squeeze, a teary-eyed father, or a spontaneous giggle during vows.
Known for his stunning storytelling style, Eric Draht has quickly become one of Canada’s most admired wedding photographers. Recently crowned Canada’s top wedding photographer by MyWed, Eric brings theatrical flair and emotional depth to every photo he takes. And yes—he’s the artist behind Kelowna Photographer.
The Theatre Behind the Lens
A Passion Born Offstage
Before the camera, there was the stage. Eric’s love for photography actually began backstage at theatre productions. Not performing, but watching—soaking in the shadows, the spotlights, the gestures.
“Theatre showed me how to see,” he shares. “It taught me how light tells a story.”
How Theatre Shapes Photography
What Eric took from theatre wasn’t just technical—though you’ll see expert lighting in his photos—it was emotional literacy. He learned how a moment, like a whispered line or a silent pause, could speak volumes. That sensitivity now shows in every frame he captures.
What Sets Eric Draht Apart
A Gentle, Narrative Style
Eric’s photos are more than snapshots. They feel like film stills—each one rich with story, subtle emotion, and cinematic energy.
More Than Just a Pretty Picture
Anyone can take a pretty picture, right? But Eric crafts images that stir something. They’re honest, unscripted, and full of little details—like the bride’s hand clutching a note, or the groom’s anxious grin as the music starts.
Letting the Moments Breathe
Unlike some photographers who direct every move, Eric blends in. He doesn’t interrupt. He lets the day unfold and captures it quietly, like a friend with a camera rather than a hired professional.
The Human Element in Wedding Photography
Trust, Presence, and Permission
“You’re being let into someone’s most personal day,” Eric says. “That’s sacred.” He never forgets that. His clients trust him not just to take photos, but to see them—to recognize the love, nerves, and tenderness between all the planning.
Reading the Room Without a Script
Much like an actor feeling out a scene, Eric knows how to read a room. He understands when to step in, when to step back, and when to catch that perfect, fleeting smile.
Awards Are Nice, But Meaning Matters More
Winning the MyWed Award
When Eric was named Canada’s top wedding photographer by MyWed, the industry took notice. But what really mattered to him? The emails, messages, and grateful tears from his couples.
Recognition from the Industry
Being chosen from a sea of talent is no small feat. MyWed looks at thousands of photographers across the globe, and Eric stood out—not for flashy techniques, but for emotional resonance.
Reflections from Eric
“I’m just grateful,” he says. “Grateful to tell stories, to be there when love happens.”
Behind the Scenes with Draht Photography
From Lenses to Lighting Choices
Eric’s gear isn’t about the fanciest setup—it’s about intention. He chooses lenses that feel intimate, lighting that echoes softness, and angles that don’t intrude.
Creating Comfort for Couples
A good photo session feels effortless. That’s Eric’s vibe. He cracks jokes, gives space, and—most importantly—makes people feel like themselves.
Real Weddings, Real Emotion
The Sunset Vow Moment
One of Eric’s favorite shots? A bride bursting into laughter mid-vow. No posing. No prep. Just pure, golden-hour joy. And yes, it’s now hanging above their fireplace.
The Magic of Unscripted Laughter
That’s what Eric lives for—those split-second beats where everything just feels right. “Like a quiet beat in a story,” he calls it.
What Couples Say About Eric
Words That Paint a Picture
Clients don’t just rave about the photos. They talk about how Eric felt like part of the family. They remember his warmth, patience, and calming energy.
Making the Big Day Feel Easy
Weddings are stressful. Eric? Not so much. His calm, almost meditative presence turns photo sessions into fun moments—like little breathers from the whirlwind.
The Future: Soft Light and Deeper Stories
Always Learning, Always Listening
Eric’s not done evolving. He wants to play with softer light, deeper shadows, and even more raw storytelling. “There’s always another layer to peel back,” he says.
Focusing on the Heart of It All
It’s not about trends. It’s not about likes. It’s about the people. And Eric Draht knows how to show them in their truest, most beautiful light.
Why Wedding Photography Is True Storytelling
Photography That Feels Like a Memory
Eric’s images don’t just show you a moment—they bring you back to it. That’s the power of good photography. That’s the magic of storytelling through a lens.
Art That Lives Forever
A wedding lasts a day. A photo? Forever. And when it’s done right—when it’s done like Eric Draht does it—it becomes a living memory, full of soul.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Click
At the heart of it, wedding photography isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s about being there, really being there, and seeing what others don’t.
Eric Draht—Kelowna Photographer—doesn’t just take pictures. He gives people a way to remember how love felt. And that’s a gift worth celebrating.
FAQs About Eric Draht & Wedding Photography
1. What makes Eric Draht different from other wedding photographers?
Eric focuses on candid, emotional storytelling. His background in theatre gives his photos a unique cinematic feel, capturing the mood, not just the moment.
2. Does Eric only work in Kelowna?
While based in Kelowna, Eric is open to destination weddings and has photographed love stories all over Canada.
3. How far in advance should we book him?
Eric tends to book up quickly—especially for summer and fall weddings—so reaching out 6–12 months in advance is a good idea.
4. Does he offer engagement shoots too?
Yes! Eric loves engagement shoots as they help couples feel relaxed and build trust before the big day.
5. Can we see full wedding galleries before booking?
Absolutely. Eric provides access to full galleries so you can see how he captures the entire day, from getting ready to the final dance.
