Ben Lariviere - Wedding Photographer

06/13/2024

"My (now) husband doesn't love getting his photos taken, so choosing a photographer that we both felt super comfortable with was our main priority. As soon as we met with Ben for the first time, we knew we had found the one.

We did an engagement shoot in the summer before the wedding which was also the first time we met him, and he was so great at getting us comfortable in front of the camera and the photos are STUNNING.

No matter how beautiful the engagement photos were though, nothing prepared me for the wedding photos. We didn't hire a second shooter, but somehow Ben must have been everywhere, all once because the sheer number of photos is wild, but I think we have a photo of every. single. guest. He knew that family was our main priority, and my goodness did he deliver.

I can't believe how they turned out, and it's all because of how much attention he pays to his couples. We went through quite a lot between the engagement and the wedding, including both family and job loss, and Ben was incredibly kind, supportive, and accommodating when we needed him. At this point, I feel like he knows us as well as our friends do, and I think that's what you want in a photographer. It's definitely what we wanted."

06/07/2024

There's something timeless about a black & white photograph. It's almost as though by stripping away the distraction of colour, you can see something in an image you couldn't see before, it feels more emotional, it feels like a moment frozen in time. I LOVE including many rich black & white images from every wedding in the client gallery, but don't highlight them here enough. What do you prefer?

05/24/2024

I'm truly so grateful to get to document love stories, like Kelsey & Kaitlin's wedding. We spent the unseasonably sunny, warm weather on the edge of Lake Ontario. They wrote some kind words about their experience in a review: "The thought of being romantic in front of a photographer had us both very nervous, but Ben put us immediately at ease. I’m honestly shocked at how easily it came to us both when it came to taking these photos, and he and his method get all the credit for that. The photos we’ve gotten back have us both looking completely relaxed and at ease so that the love we feel for each other is all that shines through (rather than the anxiety we were expecting). Everything comes across very natural and not overly posed, while maintaining expert composition." 🥰🥰🥰
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Venue:
Makeup & Hair:
Officiant:
Attire:
Rings: and

05/07/2024

I don't talk about engagement sessions here enough, but I truly can't recommend them enough. Here's a few reasons why:
1. Practice. You'll feel way more comfortable during your wedding portrait session when you've already been through a practice run with your photographer. Plus, we'll become friends through the process, so you got a pal showing up to photograph your wedding.
2. Control. For your engagement session, we can control the location, season, weather, and time of day. Without working within the constraints of your wedding timeline, there is more room for creativity, experimentation, and finding a rhythm during your session.
3. Connection. After spending an hour cuddling, kissing, and laughing with your bae (are we still using 'bae'?), you'll leave your session feeling extra connected to each other.

Did you do engagement photos? Tell me why you would or wouldn't recommend it.

05/02/2024

Matina & Frank's love story unfolds like a timeless romance film, and their wedding was a cinematic masterpiece. From their heartfelt first look on a rooftop terrace to the enchanting toasts and joyful dancing, each moment was picture-perfect, leading to their happily-ever-after. 📽❤️🎞
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Vendor Dream Team
Photography: .photo
Venue:
Florals:
Makeup: & .makeup
Hair:
Wedding Coordinator:
Entertainment:

04/18/2024

Working in weddings means getting the honour of being invited into the love stories of lovely humans in love... and it's one of the things I love most about this work. Did I mention love? One of the most lovely humans I've gotten to meet are Chantal & Taras. They are so kind and generous and thoughtful people, there's no doubt why their guests brought SO MUCH positive energy and good vibes to their wedding day, truly just rallying behind these two rockstars. I'm so grateful for being welcomed to work in this beautiful industry. ❤️
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Makeup:
Hair:
Officiant: Mark Atchison
Venue:
Day-of Coordinator: Julia Metelitsa
Entertainment:
Attire:

04/05/2024

Carly & Alex's Wedding was such an incredible way to start my 2024 wedding season. I've photographed so many weddings at The Walper that it really just feels like home by now, and yet I never get the least bit tired of it; so much gorgeous light streaming in through the large windows, historic walls, modern decor, and steps from many awesome, outdoor DTK photo spots. A dream team of vendors brought the day together seamlessly (special shout out to the lovely and talented Kendra of .co), and the heartfelt love story of Carly & Alex made this day a dream to photograph. Cheers to the newlyweds! 🥂❤️
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Makeup & Hair: .makeupbyamandazack
Officiant: Sassan Sanei
Cake: THE BRIDE!
Venue:
Wedding Planning: .co
Entertainment: Butler's Slam Audio (Rob Butler)
Attire:
Videography: .ca
Rings:

03/20/2024

Come behind the camera with me at a recent engagement shoot with my pals Mere & Deven in Uptown Waterloo. I love finding creative compositions while capturing the genuine interactions and connections of the couples I work with. Mere & Deven aren't PDA people, so it took some time for them to get comfortable, but by the end of the session they were killing it and it was so much fun. Engagement sessions are the perfect way to get comfortable with your photographer, and with showing affection in front of a camera. Highly recommend! Also, big thanks to the kind folks at for giving us permission to shoot at their beautiful space. 🍻

03/03/2024

I got the following message from a couple I recently had a video call with to meet and discuss their wedding photography goals. During the call, we connected flawlessly over the power of candid photos that express genuine emotion and connection. Here's what they said:

"We've found this whole process of searching for a wedding photographer to be an exciting and emotional process. We must have met with half a dozen photographers and companies over Zoom in the last couple of weeks.

When we started our journey we had a vision for what the photos should look like and the type of connection we wanted to have with the person who would be shooting our wedding on the day. I think now I can be candid and say we were getting a little fatigued from interviewing so many photographers and you were actually the final call we had booked.

But from the start of our conversation we had an immediate connection with you and saw how passionately you spoke about your craft. We found the passion infectious.

I knew we had found the right person when my fiance started tearing up while looking through your galleries. She said she could feel the emotion coming through your photos, and this is from looking at your photos taken at a wedding with a bride and groom we had never even met!

Long story short, we think you'd be perfect for our wedding."

Download my totally free wedding planning guide. I won't even ask for your email address. Level-up Your Wedding and Eliminate Regrets now: https://benlariviere.com/wedding-planning-guide/

02/09/2024

With the summer sun casting its golden glow, Daesi & Jake's outdoor ceremony at Paradise Banquet Centre was a vision of beauty and emotion. Surrounded by loved ones, their deep connection was palpable, echoing the history of their journey as high school sweethearts. Following my suggestion, we ventured to the enchanting Kortright Centre for wedding portraits, where rows of trees created a fairytale backdrop. Wrapped in love and support from their close-knit circle, the day was filled with positive energy and excitement. Daesi & Jake's genuine kindness and easy-going nature made them a joy to work with, exuding humility and appreciation for every moment captured.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Hair & Makeup:
Venue:
Entertainment:
Videography:
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01/25/2024

Join me in reliving Taylor & Dylan's wedding day, where love, laughter, and sunlight painted the canvas of their celebration. The atmosphere was anything but overly formal; it was a PARTY, signs of joy and connection echoing through every corner. A super sunny afternoon turned into an advantage, creating images that radiated with the same luminosity as the love that enveloped Taylor & Dylan.

The ceremony and reception were at the Imperial Restaurant in New Hamburg, a charming and historic setting that added its magic touch to the festivities. Forgoing a formal meal, the evening unfolded with a delicious tapas-style feast that kept the celebration in perpetual motion. After the guests bid farewell to the Imperial Restaurant, the couple found solace in a private, romantic first dance, a cherished moment bathed in the warm ambiance of the empty venue. A decade in the making, this celebration wasn't just a wedding; it was a testament to love that knows no bounds, a day where every moment felt perfect.

01/06/2024

I never do this, but I felt the urge to share a huge number of photos from Sarah & Ryan's wedding at the incredible Walper Hotel. I pride myself on shaping a narrative with my photos. Don't miss this one. It was an epic day.

Step into the vibrant world of Sarah & Ryan's Walper Hotel Wedding. Immerse in the energy, charm, and unique moments, in downtown Kitchener.

01/04/2024

When you're planning a wedding, you need to accept that you can't control the weather, especially when you're planning an outdoor rural backyard wedding, like Shelby & Dan. Though the rainclouds were looming in the hours leading up to the ceremony, the couple threw caution to the... ahem... rain, and went through with the wedding ceremony among the raindrops. They could have moved everything into the tent, but who could blame them for not taking advantage of their gorgeous property as the backdrop of their ceremony? Shelby told me she felt reassured having me there photographing their day, and, as she put it, "helping us navigate some of the unexpected, rainy challenges." As always, I came prepared for anything and adapted to make the best of a rainy day. I had a blast!

Congrats to all of the couples who got engaged over the holidays! If you want to work with a wedding photographer who's ready for anything, DM me.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Makeup:
Hair: .hair
Catering: .ab
Entertainment:
Attire:

12/24/2023

Wishing you a safe, healthy and happy holiday, from my family to yours! ❄️❤️ These smiling faces are all the gifts I need, BUT..... it's not like I'm not going to refuse any fancy gifts that come my way, so don't go returning anything with my name on it. 🎁😉 Thank you to all of my wonderful clients, everybody who voted for me to WIN the Reader's Choice Awards 🤯 (still in shock about that one, honestly), and for all of the comments and messages of support on here. Wishing you all the best in 2024!
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Photo by the incomparable Carly Kratzer Photography

12/22/2023

Alanna & Dan had the most beautiful, very intimate backyard wedding this past summer. Luckily, their close family friend Mark is able to perform legal wedding ceremonies, but not every couple who would love to have a friend or family member officiate their ceremony has a Mark on their crew, so here's what you can do instead:
- Get legally wed at a courthouse or city hall in the days before your wedding - the symbolic ceremony performed on your wedding day is no less special by not being the exact moment you're legally wed.
- Have your chosen person lead your ceremony, making it personal, warm and entertaining, and then a legal officiant can step in for a few minutes mid-ceremony to do the bare minimum legal stuff (that's the technical term) to make it legit.
📢For more wedding tips like this, download my 100% free guide "Level Up Your Wedding and Eliminate Regrets" from my website.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: Ben Lariviere - Wedding Photographer
Florals:
Hair:
Makeup: Makeup by Rachel Michaelis
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12/15/2023

Often a first look is a beautiful private moment between a couple soon to be married, who want to connect and spend time together before the wedding ceremony. But... sometimes there's an audience and that's okay too, since sharing all of the touching moments of your wedding day with your loved ones is part of what makes it so special. Meghan & Alex shared a less-than-private first look in the backyard of Three Houses Inn.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Makeup: (specifically: , )
Hair: (specifically: , , )
Officiant:
Cake:
Venue:
Entertainment: DJ Hardcore Hicks (Jeff Black)
Attire: Sophie's Gowns, Tip Top Tailors

12/01/2023

Usually, I arrive at a wedding knowing who exactly 2 people are, and everyone else is a stranger. I spend the day observing and learning who everyone is, and finding out who the folks who mean the most to you are. When I see you spending extra time with, or having emotional interactions with certain guests, I'm picking up clues that I should pay extra attention to, and take extra photos of those folks. Even if I don't know how you're related and why they are so meaningful to you. Wedding prep/ getting ready time is a great time for me to meet and start familiarizing myself with the key people of the day.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: Ben Lariviere - Wedding Photographer
Hair & Makeup:
Venue:
Catering: Indulge Catering
Attire:
Ring:

11/06/2023

Wow-ee! Meghan & Alexis' wedding on Saturday was UN-believable. It was a truly beautiful day of celebration between two lovely humans, a touching mix of cultures and languages, on-point weather, and of course, the amazing backdrop of Revival House.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: Ben Lariviere - Wedding Photographer
Florals: Stratford Blooms
Makeup: (specifically: , )
Hair: (specifically: , , sallyrochagarcia)
Officiant:
Cake:
Venue:
Entertainment: DJ Hardcore Hicks (Jeff Black)
Attire: Sophie's Gowns, Tip Top Tailors

10/26/2023

Exciting news on my brand new blog today! Check it out

Awarded Waterloo Region's Top Wedding Photographer, Ben Lariviere recounts the journey to reaching this prestigious title.

10/10/2023

I dug this oldie from the archive and gave it an edit update. This is one of my favourites because it's such a good example of capturing the feeling of a moment in an image. ❤️

Send this post to someone who's getting married. 💍

10/04/2023

Your engagement is a beautiful chapter, and what better way to celebrate it than through an engagement session?

An engagement session with me goes beyond just photos; it's an opportunity for you to establish trust in me, learn how to feel at ease in front of the camera, and deeply connect with your partner. ❤️

During our time together, I'll lead you through my unique process, capturing genuine, candid moments of joy and togetherness. It's all about being your authentic selves.

Whether you're camera-shy or simply want to cherish this special phase, let's create meaningful memories. Reach out to schedule your engagement session and step confidently into your wedding day!

09/28/2023

I had the immense privilege of capturing Natalie & Nate's magical wedding, where every detail spoke volumes about their unique human connection and the candid joy that filled the air.

From a chance encounter on Tinder to a hike in Death Valley, their love bloomed with every step (and flight around the world) they took together. Nate's smile captured Natalie's heart, and they embarked on countless adventures, including a second-date trip to Baja, where their bond deepened.

Natalie's childhood home, adorned with love and memories, transformed into a breathtaking wedding venue that radiated warmth and nostalgia. Surrounded by lush greenery and under the canopy of a beautifully decorated clear tent, their love story came full circle.

As the vows were exchanged, tears of joy mixed with laughter. The words they crafted with their hearts were a perfect reflection of their personalities, embracing humour, space, and the boundless expanse of their shared dreams.

Natalie's friend Lauren of Kind Florals, weaved her magic with elegant white floral arrangements, adorning the ceremony arch, the head table, and the rustic wooden harvest tables that brought loved ones together in celebration.

The ambiance was nothing short of enchanting—an upscale rustic setting illuminated by the warm glow of string lights, where the love and laughter of family and friends danced beneath the starry sky.

And when the dance floor beckoned, infectious energy filled the air. An impromptu moment had Natalie and Nate crowned with sombreros, standing tall on chairs to create an arch under which their loved ones joyfully danced to the rhythm of timeless love.

This day, filled with unforgettable moments and shared dreams, will forever hold a cherished place in my heart.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography:
Florals:
Hair:
Makeup:
Catering:
Entertainment:
Natalie's Dress:
Nate's Suit:

09/09/2023

Embrace the season of warmth, love, and vibrant colours with fall family photo sessions. I can't wait to capture your unique bond amidst a stunning autumn backdrop.

Explore pricing info: https://benlariviere.com/family-photographer-kitchener-waterloo/

09/04/2023

"Working with Ben was one of the best decisions I made throughout my entire wedding planning process. From the first email to the wedding day, he was always invested in the wedding vision that we had and offered great feedback and advice throughout our time together. Ben was always prompt and organized with his communication. He was on time and ready to go as planned! He is professional, kind, and patient and what I think truly sets him apart is how invested he was/is in who we were as a couple. He took the time to get to know us by meeting with us before our engagement shoot to ask us questions about our love story and the things we as a couple valued. This really meant a lot to me. Ben radiates a calm presence and makes every moment of taking photos feel comfortable and natural. Both my husband and I can be very awkward in front of the camera when taking photos, but Ben made us feel at ease and really confident. He helps keep a positive vibe and generates positive energy."
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography:
Florals:
Hair & Makeup:
Venue:
Entertainment:
Videography: Life Lens Videography ()

08/30/2023

Thanks to YOU beautiful folks, I've been named among the TOP 10 PHOTOGRAPHERS in the region. You can help me get to #1 by getting your vote on. ⬇️ Pretty please. 🙏

08/09/2023

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, not only between you and your partner but also among the cherished people you choose to surround yourselves with. From the laughter-filled moments to the heartfelt embraces, these are the memories that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

As a wedding photographer, I understand the significance of the relationships and connections you foster on this special occasion. The people you invite to share in your joy and witness your commitment are an integral part of your love story.

Every click of my camera aims to capture the authentic emotions, the stolen glances, and the genuine interactions between you and your loved ones. It's about freezing those precious moments that reflect the bonds and connections that have shaped your journey so far.

Choosing the right people to stand beside you on your wedding day is about having those who uplift you, support you, and share in your happiness as you embark on this new chapter together.

So let's capture the love, laughter, and memories with your inner circle, preserving the beauty of those relationships forever. Trust me to document the heartfelt human connections and candid joy that will tell your unique love story.

Tag your chosen ones whose love and support you can't imagine having your wedding without.

07/11/2023

Love is a journey, and Renee & Jeff's wedding was a beautiful milestone in their decade-long adventure together. Their bond runs deep, built on a foundation of shared experiences, travels, and the joy of exploring life with their beloved mastiff husky, Winston. It was an honour to witness and capture their special day, where the power of human connections was palpable.

In The Hideaway, at the picturesque St. Marys Golf & Country Club, love and laughter filled the air. The venue's lush and beautifully landscaped golf course provided a backdrop that echoed the beauty of Renee & Jeff's love story. It wasn't just the stunning surroundings that made this venue special; it was the perfect blend of elegance and warmth, flawlessly decorated by Above & Beyond Event Design and Decor.

Kristen, the talented coordinator, brought an amazing energy and organization that ensured every detail was perfectly executed. Her exceptional communication skills ensured that all parties were in sync, creating a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved.

As a wedding photographer, my mission is to capture the raw and genuine moments that reflect the depth of human connections. Renee & Jeff's celebration was a testament to the power of love, family, and friendships. From the emotional glances exchanged during the ceremony to the exuberant laughter and heartfelt tears shared during the reception, every frame captured the authentic beauty of their connections.

I'm grateful to have been a part of their journey, freezing these powerful moments into timeless photographs that will be cherished for generations to come. Renee & Jeff, thank you for entrusting me with your precious memories and allowing me to witness the strength of your bonds.

07/05/2023

Hold onto your seat, because I'm about to take you on a whirlwind of love and enchantment! I had the absolute honour of capturing Rebecca and Damian's breathtaking wedding at the iconic Walper Hotel in downtown Kitchener in February. Trust me when I say, this was a day that dreams are made of! 📸❤️

Picture this: The Walper Hotel, the perfect backdrop for a wedding, regardless of the season. As the chilly air blew around outside, the hotel's exquisite indoor spaces was a warm hug, providing a picturesque canvas for unforgettable photographs. Every corner of the venue was filled with elegance and charm, creating a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complemented the couple's love story.

Now, let's talk about the man who brought their ceremony to life: Officiant Extraordinaire, Jeff Maeck. Brace yourselves, because this guy knows how to create a heartfelt, energetic, and personalized ceremony that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love all over again. Jeff weaved together the threads of Rebecca and Damian's journey, sharing stories that felt as if he had been a part of those cherished memories himself.

As you scroll through these photos, you'll feel the genuine love, joy, and connection that Rebecca and Damian radiated on their special day. With my unique approach and keen eye for capturing heartfelt moments, I've created a collection of images that will transport you back to their magical celebration, and make you feel like you were right there in the midst of it all.

If you're looking for a photographer to bring life to your favourite memories, get in touch. I can't wait to hear all about your love story.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography: .photo
Florals:
Cake:
Hair & Makeup:
Officiant Extraordinaire:
Venue:
Entertainment:
Rebecca's Attire:
Signage:
Videography: .studios

06/26/2023

What's a wedding without a llama in a suit? 👰‍♀🦙🤵

06/20/2023

On Saturday, I had the immense privilege of capturing Natalie & Nate's magical wedding, where every detail spoke volumes about their unique human connection and the candid joy that filled the air.

From a chance encounter on Tinder to a hike in Death Valley, their love bloomed with every step (and flight around the world) they took together. Nate's smile captured Natalie's heart, and they embarked on countless adventures, including a second-date trip to Baja, where their bond deepened.

Natalie's childhood home, adorned with love and memories, transformed into a breathtaking wedding venue that radiated warmth and nostalgia. Surrounded by lush greenery and under the canopy of a beautifully decorated clear tent, their love story came full circle.

As the vows were exchanged, tears of joy mixed with laughter. The words they crafted with their hearts were a perfect reflection of their personalities, embracing humour, space, and the boundless expanse of their shared dreams.

Natalie's friend Lauren of Kind Florals, weaved her magic with elegant white floral arrangements, adorning the ceremony arch, the head table, and the rustic wooden harvest tables that brought loved ones together in celebration.

The ambiance was nothing short of enchanting—an upscale rustic setting illuminated by the warm glow of string lights, where the love and laughter of family and friends danced beneath the starry sky.

And when the dance floor beckoned, infectious energy filled the air. An impromptu moment had Natalie and Nate crowned with sombreros, standing tall on chairs to create an arch under which their loved ones joyfully danced to the rhythm of timeless love.

This day, filled with unforgettable moments and shared dreams, will forever hold a cherished place in my heart.
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Vendor Dream Team:
Photography:
Florals:
Hair:
Makeup:
Catering:
Entertainment:
Natalie's Dress:
Nate's Suit: