Our Company
Launched in 2013 and inspired by the belief that memories are the best travel souvenir, Flytographer is a Canadian-based startup that connects travellers with a community of hundreds of local photographers in 275+ destinations around the world for fun, candid vacation photo shoots (about an hour) that capture the magic of travel. We are the first company to market global vacation photography services and are changing the way people remember their trips by providing one-of-a-kind local experiences and beautiful photographs that will be cherished for generations.
We capture occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, families on multi-generational trips, couples’ and friend getaways, solo adventures, and many surprise marriage proposals. All of our photographers have been personally handpicked based on skill, style, and personality. Not only are they incredible professional photographers, but they are all passionate travellers themselves and truly excited to meet other travellers from around the globe. The best part? Our Flytographers also serve as informal local tour guides, sharing insider tips on things to eat, see and do, including the most photographic spots around the city, plus hidden gems and the places to avoid!
Our mission is to help people around the world “capture the magic of travel.”
The Story Behind Flytographer
The story begins in Paris, October 2011. Flytographer was founded by Nicole Smith, a former high tech marketing manager. Nicole’s idea for Flytographer came after a trip to Paris to reunite with her best friend, Erika. Disappointed with awkward selfies and the blurry photos strangers had snapped, the duo asked a local friend to take some candid shots of them enjoying the city together. After 20 minutes of this, Nicole looked at the images on her iPhone and realized she had the best souvenir possible: priceless memories with her BFF in Paris.
Upon returning home, Nicole identified a gap in the market for vacation photography. Inspired by the photographs from her own trip and recognizing the trend of travellers seeking authentic local experiences, Nicole launched Flytographer in March 2013.
Flytographer Today
Now six years later, Flytographer has built a community of hundreds of photographers on every continent (except Antarctica!). Our Victoria, BC-based team has helped over 10,000 happy customers capture priceless vacation memories. Delivering an excellent customer experience every single time is what we are most proud of as a company. In fact, we have thousands of glowing customer reviews, and you can read some here. We not only truly care that you have a wonderful experience, we guarantee it.
Flytographer has also partnered with some of the world’s leading brands, like Fairmont Hotels, Four Seasons Hotels, Hilton, Expedia, Virtuoso, Luxury Retreats, Zola and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Press across the globe is talking about Flytographer from The New York Times to Conde Nast Traveler who called us “The Future of Travel Photography”. Forbes listed Flytographer as a top holiday gift of 2015, Oprah.com called us an “Ingenious Travel Hack” and we were listed as one of the Top Global Trends for 2016 by J Walter Thompson. Founder Nicole also appeared on Canada’s “Dragons’ Den” in October 2015, and a follow-up “where are they now” episode filmed at Flytographer’s office in Market Square in March 2017.
Want to partner with us? Learn more here.
Want to join our team in Victoria? Click here.
Want to join our global community of photographers? Visit this page.
Flytographer also hosts bi-annual events that help to empower women in the tech industry!
In May, 2018, we hosted Rosé + Real Talk… Advice I’d Give My Younger Self
Imagine…. you could go back time and tell your 10-year-old self, or your 20-year-old self some nuggets of wisdom. What would you say to her?
We listened to stories from six local startup women in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s on: “Advice I’d Give My Younger Self.” From wild career pivots, to taking on big roles before you’re ready, to balancing work and family, to starting your own startup.
Stay tuned for our next event!
Flytographer Values
Respect for Others
Be accountable
Choose Positivity
Adaptable
Passion for Building Magical Memories