I’ve been looking at doing a wedding workshop for a little while now, and finally found the perfect one. An opportunity to have some good vibes, meet some incredible people and ultimately learn about an aspect of the industry that is widely under represented, despite how amazing it is.

Conversations throughout the day varied from general wedding photography, and experiences we have all had, to how to approach a wedding in the LGBTQ+. There is always going to be some learning curve with every couple, from pronouns, to any subjects that may be off limits, with the couple and or guests. Some couples will always be extremely open about different elements, especially pronouns. A conversation we had approached the subject upon adjectives when working in the couples session. Honestly, this had never crossed my mind to truly think about with couples. I always find when working with couples and families, the descriptions I use to compliment the way they look & pose ect are free flowing and roll of the tongue in the moment. It was suggested that, particularly in the LGBTQ community some descriptions may not always be appropriate, occurring from misgender or negative past experiences for instance. The reality is, we are all accustomed to potentially using mis gendered wording/phrases, I happen to use the terms ‘guys’ frequently no matter who I am referring to, male or female ect. There is always something new to learn, and I won’t always get things right, and I can admit that, terms change in the world so frequently. When you are not completely involved and integrated in certain communities or environments, it is very easy to mis communicate when things change.

If I ever get anything wrong please let me know, or let me know prior to any future communications if there are specifics words/phrases that are not appropriate.

Nothing in the wedding industry will every play out exactly the same, and not every couple will want the same shots/poses, or time taken in the preparation. The important element to remember in every shot from all communities, is to relax and just do what feels right, an idea might just be that, on the day, the couple will always have the final say of what they want to do, but being sensitive to any circumstance is the key and everything will play out.

Back to this fabulous session, a real couple equals lovely intimate moments that you won't necessarily get with models, it’s the unplanned moments that always look amazing. From direction to getting lost in the moment, you capture those moments to treasure. It also makes you how aware, as a photographer, you need to be relaxed with the wedding couple, and vice versa to capture those candid loving moments on the big day! Granted this real couple are very used to unknown people photographing them regularly, it’s a testament to a couple being relaxed in the presence of the photographer. I will always aim to have a couple of conversations before the big day, covering all the details, from initial plans to the final confirmation. But these conversations also help build a connection with photographer & couple to help relax on the day so it is possible to have the intimate moments to treasure in years to come. Any boundaries and preferences can also be set during these conversations, regarding pronouns, inappropriate phrases and words to be aware of with the couple and any guests.

Featuring (all Instagram handles)

Workshop: @loveforall_lgbtq

Couple: @the.blonde.explorer

Celebrant: @celebrant_louise

Florist: @bryonymaeflowers

Hat: @rebeccaannedesigns

Vow Books: @meadow_and_wild