about me
Hey! I'm Elysa, but Lance is my nickname. You can call me either!
I’m a twenty-something born and raised on summer days; passionate about good food, sunsets and making the most out of every day.
Although photography is a big part of my life, day to day you'll most likely find me in my garden, smothering my chocolate lab in kisses, or trying out new recipes for dinner.
My favourite way to spend the weekend is being with my loved ones, usually at the beach or exploring new places and events. If it includes food and good company, I'll be there.
I love to tell stories, and I hope one day I can hear all about yours.
Thank you for being here!
Life
of
storyteller
a visual,
photographer,
a
just
Not
Ottawa Wedding Photographer: Elysa Lance-Benac
& everything in between
she/her
"Your wedding isn't a photoshoot or a production. Live in the moment and let me capture the magic."
My interest in photography started with the thrill of being able to freeze a moment in time and hold onto it years later. In college, we learned the science of how a photo is created, and to be honest, I think it’s seriously just magic.
Photography to me is about having a way to remember all of your life's moments - the more imperfect the better. I want you to be able to look at your collection of photos and not only feel the moment, but feel like you.
My dream is to create a space where you can feel comfortable enough to be yourself, without stress or worry if you're doing all the "right" things for a nice photo.
And as a result, we can create something deeply beautiful and nostalgic.
“Every wedding, every shoot, I see the world through a whole new lens. No story is the same, and this makes photography so rewarding."
I'm a sucker for nostalgia and love the imperfect simple moments. There is so much to be inspired by, and one is your story.
No story is the same, and that's what makes your photo's and experience different than the last. I'm inspired by the elements that make up your story - what you like to do together, how you met, what your favorite features are of each other, all of the places you've explored and got lost, the inside jokes you have.
Witnessing and capturing your connection reignites my passion for photography every time. It's so rewarding turning your wedding day or session into collection of photo's that feel true and honest - and also look like art.
Your story is worth telling, don't forget to document it.
"Rain or shine, I'll be capturing all those moments you want to hold onto forever."
One thing about weddings that is undeniable, is how quickly they go by. Suddenly you're at the day you've planned and dreamed about for so long and it can be a lot.
That's why it's important that I've got you covered, so you can soak up and enjoy every moment of your day. This means I'll be checking in to see if you need a moment to yourselves, working with your vendors on last minute changes and doing all the corralling for a family group photo.
Apart from being your photographer, I’m here to be any support or friend you need. I’ll be grabbing tissues or deodorant in the morning, holding back tears as you walk down the aisle and singing your favourite songs with you at the end of the night.
Throughout the days leading up to, and after your wedding, I'm just a message away. Your trust and appreciation will always hold a place in my heart.
Cozy cafes, sunsets on the beach, period dramas, great food, dog snuggles, being a tourist, living in the moment, 10pm baking, laughing with friends..
I can't help but feel all warm fuzzy when thinking about my favourite things. Growing up in a world before wifi was a thing, I like to spend as much time as I can being outside or doing anything with my hands.
My core memories are of sitting on the porch soaking up the morning sun, being absorbed in a good book, baking and experimenting with recipes, always being barefoot, picking flowers from my moms gardens, fishing with my brother, campfires and sleepovers with friends.
Although life is a little different now, you'll still find me doing all the same things. I naturally have a passion for helping others and taking care of those closest to me. It's really rewarding making other people feel seen and cared for.
Exploring Canada and the rest of the world is on my bucket list and it's why capturing destination weddings is such a dream come true.
I really look forward to getting to know you and all of your favourite things.
xo
Thanks so much for making this day so special. Not only are you extremely talented but your energy is what I hope every bride and groom gets from their photographer; calming, patient, supportive and super helpful. We're both immensely grateful to have had the opportunity to have you as a photographer for our special day and engagement photoshoot.
Vero & Nicholas
into art
your love
translate
WILL
we
TOGETHER,
May 2023
St. John's Newfoundland Canada
June 2022
Tillamook, Oregon USA
March 2022
Toronto, Ontario Canada
September 2023
Almonte, Ontario Canada
Some of my favourite stories
Your story is worth
telling
Don't just let the memories fade away, let's document this beautiful time of your life
