Getting Grand in Granville


I always love when photography takes me somewhere new. Recently, I had the opportunity to spend time in Vancouver, meeting new couples and hearing their stories. And during that trip, I met the wonderful Michaela and Michael.


It didn't take me long after meeting them to know these two shared something special (and yes, their names being only one letter apart felt like a sign!). With Michaela dressed in a chic white set, and Michael looking dapper in a grey suit, they also felt effortlessly cool — the kind of couple you pass on the street and instantly understand why someone would want to photograph them.


We started the evening just outside downtown Vancouver, exploring areas filled with lush greenery, historic character homes, and gorgeous, draping trees. The vibe was easy and natural from the beginning. Between sneaking kisses, laughter, and playful moments swinging from lamp posts, Michaela and Michael made every corner of the city feel romantic and like it was theirs.


As the day continued, we eventually made our way down to the iconic Granville Island, which offered the perfect backdrop of waterfront views, market stalls, and a lively atmosphere. I've always loved exploring Granville Island because it's filled with such unique corners. So I was thrilled Michaela and Michael wanted some of their engagement photos captured here.


Turns out, there was another huge milestone we were capturing, too.


While we wandered the market, Michaela picked up a watermelon and held it against her midriff — a subtle yet playful nod to the fact that these two are also preparing to become parents! It was so special for them to capture this news in a way that was fun but also entirely them. This honest, organic moment made it one of my favourite photos from the day.


Getting to document both of these huge milestones in their story was incredibly meaningful. Engagement sessions are already filled with such excitement for what’s ahead, so knowing Michaela and Michael are stepping into marriage and parenthood together added an even deeper layer to the day. And I was honoured to capture this memory and moment into something they'll cherish forever.


I hope you enjoy this gallery as much as I do — now go ahead and see if you can spot the watermelon photo!


Couple in formal attire walking hand in hand in front of a modern blue building with lush greenery and red flowers.
Black and white photo of a bride and groom holding hands, walking up steps, as the bride looks back smiling.
Couple playfully hiding their faces behind a watermelon and bowl of strawberries against a white wall.
A couple shares a romantic kiss outdoors surrounded by lush green trees in soft natural light.
Romantic couple sharing a tender moment by a serene pond under weeping willow trees on a sunny day.
Playful couple posing under Granville Island bridge in Vancouver, laughing together in a fun fisheye photo.
A stylish couple poses against a white wall outdoors, woman in white pantsuit and man in gray suit.
A couple reflected in a convex street mirror on a sunny urban street with trees and buildings.
Couple kissing at doorway, woman in white dress gesturing toward camera, fisheye lens photo.
Woman in white dress standing in dark venue, fisheye lens perspective with arm reaching into frame.
Couple sharing a romantic kiss on a wooden deck surrounded by lush green willow trees, shot with fisheye lens.
Two people humorously hiding their faces behind a watermelon and a bowl of watermelon slices indoors.
Couple playfully holding strawberries over their eyes at a colorful fruit market in a fisheye lens shot.
Couple holds watermelon while posing in colorful produce aisle at Seafood City grocery store engagement photo.
Mallard duck standing on a painted bicycle lane symbol on gray asphalt pavement.

Details


Photography: Olea Janes Photography


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BY OLEA JANES PHOTOGRAPHY

Edmonton and Alberta-based wedding photographer


Close-up details of an intricate beaded white wedding dress bodice in natural window light.