ALLOW ME TO
INTRODUCE MYSELF
Hi, I'm Canisius Pierre, the photographer behind Sola Gratia Photos.
Wedding photographer, traveler, and firm believer that some moments deserve to be remembered forever
I'm based in Charlotte, North Carolina and serve couples throughout the East Coast and beyond. Over the last decade, I've had the privilege of documenting hundreds of weddings and meeting incredible people along the way.
While photography is what brought us here, it's the relationships, stories, and moments behind the photographs that continue to inspire me.
I moved to the United States for college to study science where I fell in love with photography while in graduate school. I focus more on wedding and portrait photography, but I am also passionate about applying the camera to street photography.
For any queries, please do reach out!
Photo
Large horizontal image of you smiling at a wedding or interacting with a couple.
Not:
camera in face
looking serious
arms crossed
Do:
genuine smile
candid interaction
approachable
where it all began…
Hi, I'm Canisius Pierre, the photographer behind Sola Gratia Photos.
Wedding photographer, traveler, and firm believer that some moments deserve to be remembered forever
My story begins in Rwanda, where I spent my early years before moving to the United States.
Growing up between different cultures taught me the importance of family, community, and the moments that bring people together. Those experiences shaped how I see the world and ultimately how I approach photography today.
What started as a creative hobby eventually became a passion and later a career. Along the way, I realized that what I enjoy most isn't simply taking photographs—it's connecting with people and documenting moments they'll carry with them long after the day is over.
Layout
50/50 split
Left:
Photo of you in Rwanda or family photo
Right:
Story
beyond the camera…
While weddings are a huge part of my life, there are a few other things that keep me inspired.
Travel
I love exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. Some of my favorite weddings have happened in places I had never visited before.
New York
If I could spend a weekend anywhere, chances are I'd be walking through New York City with a camera in hand.
Mountains & Vineyards
Some of my favorite venues are tucked away in the mountains or surrounded by vineyards—beautiful places that encourage people to slow down and be present.
Relationships
Whether it's family, close friends, or the couples I work with, meaningful relationships are what matter most to me.
Layout
Grid of 4-6 personal photos
Ideas:
New York trip
Hiking
Coffee shop
Friends
Family gathering
Travel destination
why weddings…
While weddings are a huge part of my life, there are a few other things that keep me inspired.
There are very few days in life when all of your favorite people are gathered together in one place.
Weddings are filled with anticipation, emotion, laughter, happy tears, and moments that can never be recreated. They're a celebration not only of a couple's love, but also of the family and friendships that helped shape their journey.
Being trusted to document those moments is something I never take for granted.
Photo
Emotional wedding image.
Father seeing bride.
Couple embracing.
Grandparent reaction.
why weddings…
While weddings are a huge part of my life, there are a few other things that keep me inspired.
There are very few days in life when all of your favorite people are gathered together in one place.
Weddings are filled with anticipation, emotion, laughter, happy tears, and moments that can never be recreated. They're a celebration not only of a couple's love, but also of the family and friendships that helped shape their journey.
Being trusted to document those moments is something I never take for granted.
Photo
Emotional wedding image.
Father seeing bride.
Couple embracing.
Grandparent reaction.
THE APPROACH
Photo
You directing a couple.
Every couple is different, and I believe your photographs should reflect that. Rather than following a formula, I take the time to get to know you, understand what matters most, and create an experience that feels natural, relaxed, and true to who you are.
My approach combines thoughtful guidance with genuine moments. I'll step in when needed to help you feel comfortable and confident, then step back to allow real interactions and emotions to unfold naturally. The result is a collection of photographs that feels authentic to your relationships, personalities, and celebration.
For me, wedding photography is about more than beautiful images. It's about preserving the moments that might otherwise fade with time, so years from now you can look back and remember not just what your day looked like, but what it meant.
1 comfort-focused testimonial
my favorite kind of wedding…
Photo
Mountain or vineyard wedding.
While weddings are a huge part of my life, there are a few other things that keep me inspired.
While every wedding is unique, I'm especially drawn to celebrations that feel intentional, relaxed, and centered around meaningful connection.
The weddings I enjoy most aren't necessarily the biggest or most extravagant. They're the ones where couples are fully present, surrounded by people they genuinely love, and focused on creating an experience rather than putting on a performance.
Those are the stories I connect with most.
1 ideal-client testimonial
A few fun facts about me…
Born in Rwanda
Based in Charlotte, NC
10+ years photographing weddings
200+ weddings documented
Favorite city: New York
Favorite venues: Vineyards & mountain venues
Coffee over tea
Always up for an adventure
Window seat on every flight
Can never say no to good food
1 professionalism/trust testimonial
LET’s get to know each other…
Choosing a wedding photographer is about more than finding someone whose work you love. It's about finding someone you'll trust to document one of the most meaningful days of your life.
If my work resonates with you and you think we'd be a good fit, I'd love to hear your story and learn more about what you're planning.
Photo
You with a couple laughing.
WORD ON THE STREET…
“Canisius is a tremendously talented wedding photographer. His eye will catch you in fun moments, emotional moments, serious moments, and make you look amazing each time. Professionally, Canisius is as good as they come, responsive and timely. At the wedding, he was fun and reliable and I couldn't have asked for anyone better. Highly recommend him!”
Keith Finley
“Canisius has the remarkable ability to create memorable moments through the lens. Professional, gifted and service-oriented, Sola Gratia Fotos delivered valuable quality for my graduation. His other work at weddings, events, parties is some of the most impressive I have seen in his caliber of photography. You will not be disappointed!”
Monet Goode
“I hired Pierre of Canisius Photography to photograph two church services in one day, and he captured so many amazing photos. He was able to capture intimate moments, dancing and singing, and more without being obtrusive. The editing was spot on, and we were very happy with the final product!”
Channing Lee
Now That We Are Friends
Peek at my instagram snaps
