Julia Garcia-Prat is a French wedding and editorial photographer based in Montreal, Canada. Bringing a laid-back luxury feel to her work, she is influenced by her love for travel, people, beauty and her passion for love stories. Shooting a mix of digital and 35mm film photography, Julia Garcia-Prat works worldwide.
Tell us about your business!
I’m Julia, a French Wedding and Editorial photographer based in Canada. Despite my deep-seated roots in marketing and an MBA, in 2016 I switched lanes to pursue photography. Two years later, armed with a degree in photography, an award, and an irrepressible love for capturing intimate moments, I launched my business. And I have fully embraced my calling as a wedding photographer ever since.
What would you like couples to know about you?
I genuinely treasure every experience and moment life brings. Perhaps that is why my perspective and approach to capturing weddings is so unique. I look beyond predictable moments and surface beauty. And instead look for the deeper story that lies within the frames.
I grew up on an old countryside farm in the Rhône-Alpes region of France. As a child, I was surrounded by sunflower fields, red poppies, and animals. And I spent every minute I could outside exploring and taking it all in. Naturally, this environment gave me an appreciation for simple, everyday moments. And taught me how to find magic in the mundane.
Where are you based?
I am based in Montreal, QC (Canada).
Do you travel for weddings?
Yes I do. Originally from France, I travel back and forth between the two countries and therefore, also work in Europe frequently.
How would you describe your style?
My aesthetic is a collection of emotive candids, details and stylish portraits that blends the best of editorial and documentary.
I have a unique style focused on natural movement and emotion, and a strong emphasis on framing and composition. And I use my creative intuition a lot throughout the day.
What is your most memorable career moment?
I was invited to photograph an elopement in NYC, with a very relaxed couple that was willing to go the extra mile for their photos. After their traditional ceremony at a Brooklyn Church, we wandered in the most iconic streets of the city until dusk. It was a true magical day.
With that being said, there are memorable moments happening at every wedding and we are so grateful for being able to capture it.
What inspires you?
Although I photograph joyful occasions, I find myself particularly inspired by the visually dramatic and nuanced frames from documentary film photographers like Richard Avedon, Robert Frank or even Martin Parr. There is so much to understand and to learn from these photographers, who captured various social classes and communities.
What motivates you to do what you do?
Over the years, I have developed a strong appreciation for the significance and beauty of wedding days and I have a deep admiration for heritage and family in general. I hold a special place in my heart for parents and grandparents and therefore find profound meaning in their presence at weddings. As they witness the union of their children or grandchildren, I can't help but think of this as a poignant reminder of the importance of life itself. And the deep significance of the images I create. I am lucky to have my grandparents' weddings documented and I wish to offer this gift to my clients.
How would you describe your working style?
I am a photographer focused on creating beautiful experiences, and I bring a relaxed vibe and an honest energy. The experiences I offer are intentional and focused on bringing my couples less stress and more joy—before, during, and after their wedding.
I bring tailored guidance, based on my couples’ energy and personality that helps them feel more confident and look their best. I also make sure to create a photography timeline that allows for the moments and images they want, without the rush or pressure, so they have more time to celebrate with the ones they love.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
I photograph in a mix of digital and 35mm film photography.
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
All my packages are completely custom made according to my couples’ needs.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
With my slight obsession for heritage in mind, I am about to launch a beautiful line of bespoke wedding editorial books and coffee table books, so that my couple can preserve the significant people and moments of their most beautiful days. I have poured my heart on a collection that is very much inspired by a fashion photo book.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
Truly anywhere. A significant part of my lifestyle is discovering different cultures. I love to travel and discover the world. As I lived in Asia for several years, my dream would be to capture a wedding in South Korea, Bali, Thailand or Japan. And of course, working in Europe is always a bliss.
Who is your dream client?
My dream couples are those who are intentional, wanting to be fully present in the moment, with an eye for details and aesthetics.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Enjoy your day to the fullest and consider hiring a wedding planner so you do!
