Vendor Spotlight: Cody Goetz Photography

Cody Goetz is a Winnipeg-based wedding photographer working with couples across the prairies and beyond who want their day documented as it actually felt, not as it was staged to look. His approach is grounded in observation rather than direction, focusing on real interactions, emotion, and the quieter moments that tend to age the best. Continue reading to learn more about Cody’s work, his approach behind the camera, and what sets his wedding photography apart.

Who are you, what you do and who you serve? 

Cody Goetz, a wedding photographer based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I work with couples across the prairies and beyond who want their wedding day documented in a way that feels real, emotional, and true to who they are. When they look at their photos, I want couples to remember how the day felt.

What services do you offer?

I offer full wedding day coverage, engagement sessions, elopement photography + Bar/Bat Mitzvah Photography.

How did you get started in the wedding industry, and what inspired you to become a photographer?

I started filming wedding videos in 2010 with one of Winnipeg's top wedding video companies, and it gave me a really unique opportunity to watch some of the city's best photographers work. I fell in love with what they did. When my contract ended, switching to photography felt like a natural next step. I loved the combination of storytelling and the pressure of getting it right the first time, there's no do-over on a wedding day, and that challenge was really appealing to me. Over time, it became the work I care most about.

What do you enjoy most about working in the wedding industry and serving couples on their special day?

Honestly, the people. Every wedding is its own world, with its own personalities, quirks, and emotional moments. I love being trusted to document something that matters that much to someone. And when you zoom out, it's kind of a beautiful thing, two people fall in love and their instinct is to gather everyone they care about and celebrate. That never gets old.

What do you believe is the most important consideration when couples are choosing a photographer?

Connection. You're going to spend most of your wedding day with this person, so it matters that you actually like them and feel comfortable around them. Style and price are important too, but if the relationship isn't there, the photos will show it.

What is the ideal timeline for couples to book your services in advance of their wedding day?

For popular dates, I'd say 12 to 18 months out is ideal. That said, I do take on last minute bookings when my calendar allows, so it's always worth reaching out even if your date is coming up soon.

What is the best piece of advice you would offer to couples planning their wedding? 

Build some breathing room into your day. The couples who feel the least stressed are usually the ones who aren't rushing from one thing to the next. A little buffer in the timeline makes everything feel more relaxed, and that shows up in the photos. And don't forget to actually spend time with your guests, they're there to celebrate you.

Can you share your favorite wedding trend or design idea that you're currently excited about? Honestly, anything that isn't a trend… I love when couples build their day around them and the people closest to them rather than their expectations of what a wedding should look like. 

How do you stand out?

I think it comes down to how I work on the day. I'm pretty low-key on set, I'm not directing every moment or creating a production. I'm there to document what's actually happening, and I think couples feel that. The 2024 Canadian Wedding Photographer of the Year recognition has been meaningful, but the work speaks louder than any award.

Anything else you would like to mention?

Just that I genuinely love what I do. Every wedding feels like a privilege to be part of, and I never take that trust lightly.

Interested in learning more about Cody Goetz Photography? Visit his website and follow along on Instagram to explore more of his work and recent weddings.