Choosing The Right Photographer | LGBTQ+ Friendly Photography Tips
Planning your big day is no easy task. Countless details, arrangements, and deadlines must be planned and executed smoothly. This can be overwhelming for anyone! For same sex couples however, the stress often does not end there.
Unfortunately, we live in a world where biases still exist. Despite all that has been accomplished on behalf of queer individuals, inequality has not completely disappeared. This can add another layer of complexity for LGBTQ+ couples: Will they work with me? Will they treat us equally and present the same level of services?
Moral of the story here: All love deserves to be celebrated!
When it comes to selecting a LGBTQ+ friendly photographer, there are some points to consider. I have accumulated a list of tips to help you select the right LGBTQ+ photographer for your wedding.
Let’s get started!
Tip #1: If you have to ask, it’s probably not going to work
If you have any suspicion that a photographer may not want or is not used to work with LGBTQ+ clients, the best thing is to trust that voice inside your head. Chances are, you could be right. Essentially, if you feel the need to ask if a photographer is comfortable shooting a same sex wedding, it will likely not work out.
We’re living in a time where we, as professionals, cannot avoid taking a position on this topic and be completely out there (pun intended). As a photographer, I believe representation should be prioritized in our work! In fact, it is always my goal to make everybody, no matter their circumstance or sexual orientation, feel comfortable while working with me. Your wedding day should be as blissful of an experience as possible. I want to make sure that when it comes to the photography, my clients are completely at ease!
Listen Carefully
If you do choose to ask if a potential photographer would be comfortable working with you, pay close attention to their answers. For example, if you ask if they have experience with LGBTQ+ couples and their response is along the lines of “No, but I’ve always wanted to…” RUN! Remember, we are people, not opportunities.
Experience matters! When seeking out the right photographer, experience should really be non-negotiable. Being supportive isn’t always enough.
Tip #2: Search LGBTQ+ wedding directories
Directories are a great resource that allow you to find validated services. You can use these to seek out vendors who are part of the community themselves or ask other community members for references.
To deepen the possible connections with LGBTQ+ friendly vendors and photographers, hire an event planner who works specifically with same sex couples. This planner will be a great asset and has likely built relationships with many wedding leaders within the LGBTQ+ community.
Tip #3: Scope out the photographer’s website
The best way to understand who you may be working with is to start with their professional website. As you browse, be on the lookout for a few things:
Do they have LGBTQ+ couples represented in their photo galleries?
Do they use inclusive language?
Do they mention that their services are LGBTQ+ friendly?
Do they ask for your pronouns on their contact forms?
Bonus points
Has their work been featured in any LGBTQ+ blogs or magazines? Do they have good reviews online? Do they appear when you search for LGBTQ+ friendly on Google?
These all further imply more experience and skills when it comes to same sex wedding photography!
Tip #4: Prioritize an experienced LGBTQ+ photographer
You may think that as long as the photographer has a good attitude, they don’t need direct LGBTQ+ wedding or couple experience. While this is all up to your own discretion, working with a photographer who has done it before will present the best results!
Why? Because LGBTQ+ weddings are different than non-LGBTQ+ weddings.
A photographer must be aware of the different dynamics and will have to rethink the social norms. The poses and direction of the shots shouldn’t be heteronormative. Rather, they should reflect the couple’s relationship and allow them to be fully authentic!
Tip #5: Be transparent
Having a great relationship with your photographer is crucial. You want to ensure that they not only understand your needs, but that they will capture your wedding day in the best way possible.
It starts with trust! With that, it is so important to lay everything out on the table and let them know all the details of your situation. Are you dealing with body dysmorphia? Will you be missing family on your wedding day because they don’t accept you? A great photographer will listen to your needs with open ears and craft their practices to fit your specific situation. You really shouldn’t settle for less!
The Right Fit Is Out There
Are you still worried that you may not find the right photographer for your same sex wedding? As an experienced LGBTQ+ photographer, I can assure you that your options are not limited. There are many great photographers out there who are eager to document ALL love stories. We are here to be supportive of the love and marriage of all couples!
For those of us who are well versed in these types of weddings, we welcome all your ideas. Further, we will work to ensure you get the photographs you most desire. Not only do we want you to cherish this day forever, but we also want to present you with portraits that tell your unique love story!
If you are an LGBTQ+ couple and are looking for a photographer to deliver exceptional results without any prejudices, let’s schedule a chat! I love to work with couples of all backgrounds/dynamics, and I would love to work with you!
I look forward to hearing from you!
Cheers!
Matteo
