We found each other in 2007 during photography school at the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, and quickly developed what we would consider today to be an unbreakable friendship. We share a love for life, photography, adventure and living on the west coast. Our nearly two decades together as friends has taken us on an adventure that in one way or another lead us to the incredible world of documenting human connection. We began our fake love story together in the Vancouver Wedding Photography Industry exclusively as a team in 2014 and we have never looked back. We value above everything being able to work side by side as a team. We’re more than friends, but also not (its confusing, we know), but we balance each other and we support one other as equal life partners. You won’t find a primary or secondary photographer here, only equals.  

TO PUT IT SIMPLE, WE WERE PUT ON THIS EARTH TO WORK WITH HUMANS, TO DOCUMENT THEIR STORIES AND TO CELEBRATE THEIR CONNECTION.

No matter where you come from or the colour of your skin, whether you’re tall or short, old or young, gay, straight or somewhere in between, know that you have a safe home with us at Isle + Oak.  

the journey of isle + oak

Isle + Oak is a representation of everything we love about traditional photography and living in the Pacific Northwest. Through the use of unique light, we strive to create work that is authentic, cinematic, personal and passionate. Our number #1 goal is to document our couples and the connection they share with one another. We take inspiration from the breathtaking scenery and unique architecture we are fortunate to find here in Vancouver, BC, and use it to create story driven images in a carefree, honest and authentic manner. For us, the little moments are the most significant. It’s never our goal to force something unnatural, but rather to document the real moments that are shared between real people. We’re after humans that want to throw away the rule book, part with tradition and instead celebrate a day that in every way represents their personal journey. We believe in tossing aside structure and chasing moments that are often overshadowed and passed by. We’re after couples who want to say ‘I do’ by the water as the sun begins to set. We’re after humans that aren’t afraid to be authentically themselves. We want to work alongside couples who value adventure and creating memories together. We believe that all exploring should be done off the beaten path, that golden hour is the best hour and that the undervalued quiet moments are arguably the most unforgettable. 

Photography was a journey we couldn’t imagine tackling without one another, and in 2016 we launched Isle + Oak.

Video courtesy of our talented friends, Grey House Visual

We document the depth of emotion, connection and originality in every form, and we want to tell your story authentically.

If you love an adventure, champagne at sunset (or your personal favourite beverage of choice), and being your authentic self, we may be the perfect fit to represent you on your big day. Join us for a cup of coffee (or better yet, we will celebrate you properly with a cocktail) and let’s have a chat about the incredible day you’re planning.

Where do I even begin when describing this beautiful human?

She is kind. She is Warm, welcoming and extremely caring. She’s the most beautiful human you will ever meet and without question will change your life if you let her. Growing a business with her by my side as been without question the most rewarding element of my life. She sees the good in everyone and has a unique ability to focus on only the positive in every situation – a skill I one day hope to learn from her. Above all, Sam is the reason I am lucky to have a career that brings me so much joy, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Sam is a born and raised island girl and while she’s tried for years, she has yet to cure me of my fear of cows. She has a love of cooking and baking, and time at home during the pandemic allowed her tO master her recipe for roasted garlic bread, which she happily bakes for all in her life. Her collection of cook books has multiplied exponentially over the past year and I have been very lucky to enjoy many incredible creations from her kitchen. She’s a new homeowner and dreams of one day creating the perfect cozy home full of plants and tasty food. If she’s not careful I will move in and probably never leave.

Her love of photography comes hand in hand with traveling. She spent 2 years living in Scotland and while she will tell you it changed her life, it without question changed mine. We spent 30 days traveling around the UK from the top to bottom and it completely shifted my entire outlook on life. Now you will find her exploring the beautiful moody landscapes of the PNW with our clients in tow on the never end quest of capturing the perfect misty scene. Her time in Scotland without question influenced Isle + Oak and everything it’s grown to be.

Where I would be in life without this human I don’t know, but I consider myself lucky to be on this journey with her by my side.

(written by Chris)

The last 15 years have been spent with Chris. It amazes me that one single connection can entirely shape the path that life takes you on, but that is what happened when I met Chris. I don’t know where my life would be today without this journey that we are tackling together.

Despite what you may all think, I am not Chris’ only love. Sorry to shatter your shipping dreams, he has another human and also a dog. I’m sure you’ve all seen Chester The Pug snoring on our instagram stories and when we allow it, Matthew is invited to join us in a selfie (or two). In some ways, Matt and I take turns playing the role of the third wheel to Chris depending on whether or not we’re on a work or personal adventure. Is that weird?

Chris is also a dedicated uncle to his niece and nephew. He enjoys spending time with them and watching them grow up. Chris is the most dedicated friend you will ever have, albeit a little (a lot) neurotic with just about everything in life (seriously, try surviving a pandemic with this one).

2020 brought many things into Chris’ life, but nothing more important than his new found love for plant babies. The most recent addition to his collection is his snake plant, Jake. He thinks he’s original with that name.

Chris has a love of fancy cocktails with his current favourite by far being a ginger bourbon fizz (if you’re super nice to him he will share the recipe). Bourbon is second only to his love of gin with Hendrix being his all time favourite. But really, anything bougie and boozy in a mason jar with a garnish wins his heart. I always get him to make at least 2 because sharing is caring.

Chris is the sweetest person and the most caring friend one could ever ask for. I know that no matter what I do he will always have my back, as well as have that ever-ready advice for me whatever the situation.

I am so blessed to have him in my life and to call him a best friend. I couldn’t have asked for more in a business partner.

(written by sam)