Finding the Right Photographer: Tips for LGBTQ+ Couples
Finding the perfect photographer for your wedding day is a bit like dating—you might have to swipe through a few before finding the perfect match who understands and celebrates your love story. Whether you're planning an international elopement or a just an intimate engagement shoot, here are key tips to help you find a photographer who is inclusive and skilled in posing same-sex couples.
Just like in dating, it's essential to find a photographer who not only accepts but embraces your unique love story. Look for photographers who proudly support LGBTQ+ couples on their website or portfolio. Make sure to really scroll through their portfolio, as sometimes they might say they’re inclusive on their bio, but it doesn’t show in their photography. Also, reading reviews or testimonials from other LGBTQ+ clients can give you insight into their experiences. A photographer who values diversity will ensure your love story is celebrated and captured authentically.
Effective communication with your photographer is crucial from the beginning. Before booking, have an open conversation about your pronouns and share your unique love story. A photographer who embraces your story will have plenty of ideas to incorporate elements that resonate with your personalities and relationship, such as meaningful props or locations that hold special significance to you and your partner. If they don’t, it’s time to swipe left on them, and move on to someone who can connect with you and your partner genuinely.
Your photographer should make you comfortable enough to pose naturally and authentically. Just as you seek genuine connections in dating, look for a photographer who understands that traditional posing guidelines don’t usually fit for same-sex couples. They should embrace diversity in their posing techniques and create poses that feel relaxed and unique to your relationship, steering clear of stereotypical or awkward poses. Please, if you see in a photographer’s portfolio using the cringy “prom” poses for their LGBTQ+ couples…. RUN!!
During the shoot, feel empowered to express your love openly. Like in a successful relationship, a supportive photographer will encourage and capture intimate moments, including kisses and embraces, without hesitation. It’s always so sad to me when I see photographers that don’t capture these with their same sex couples, as to me, that seems like they’re not truly their for their couple and are most definitely not an ally. Those special moments are essential for telling your unique love story and creating cherished memories together.
At Thistle & Poppy Photography, we understand that finding the right photographer is a journey much like finding a soulmate. We specialize in creating personalized and inclusive photography experiences for LGBTQ+ couples. Our mission is to authentically capture the beauty of your love story through thoughtful posing and genuine expressions. Contact us today to learn more about our customized wedding, elopement and engagement photography packages and how we can celebrate your love through photography!