Inclusive Wedding Photographer | Jess Glass Photo
I’m an inclusive wedding photographer
— But what does that actually mean?
Let’s dive right in — I can tell you I’m an inclusive wedding photographer but, as they say, the proof is in the pudding (or the photos?). It’s one thing to say I’m inclusive; but it’s just as important, if not more, for me to show my inclusivity — and I do that with every couple, wedding, and elopement I photograph. I’m going to walk you through what being inclusive means for me and my business every single day.
What does the word inclusive mean to me?
We’re starting with the basics: what does the word inclusive mean? By definition, inclusive simply means “including everyone.” While this is a pretty good start, to me, inclusivity means so, so much more — especially when it comes to weddings.
In the wedding industry, it can be easy to get caught up in the “traditional” couples typically shown in magazines, on TV, and in movies. But in the real world, weddings come in all shapes and sizes, just like the people getting married — so why wouldn’t I want to show a more real, accurate picture of what two people in love look like?
At the end of the day, that is what the word inclusive means to me: no matter what you and your relationship look like, you deserve to feel empowered and excited on your wedding day and to have photos that reflect that!
What makes me an inclusive wedding photographer?
I aim to be radically inclusive in both my photography business and my everyday life. So, what exactly does that look like?
Respect, representation, and diversity
I want to celebrate who YOU are, not who the wedding industry or anyone else expects you to be. I create a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone. Yes, everyone. That means all people, all bodies, all gender identities, all sexual orientations, all cultures, and all abilities.
However, just respecting and accepting you, though extremely important, is also not enough. You deserve to be celebrated and uplifted to the fullest extent. You deserve to feel 100% comfortable and, with me, I sincerely hope you will.
Gender neutral language
This one’s a biggie for me. Though we’re in the 21st century, the wedding industry is oversaturated with heteronormativity everywhere you look. Largely, the “traditional” male/female weddings take center stage. Magazines and websites are catered to the “bride” or the “groom” and there’s very little room for anyone who doesn’t identify with either side or with both.
Not with me. I will always respect your gender identity, no matter what it is, ask your preferred pronouns (or lack thereof), and use them throughout the entire process. That means in any communications with you, with other vendors, on social media and my website, and with anyone else involved in your day.
Inclusive and diverse wedding vendors only
Though inclusivity with my clients is of utmost importance to me, I extend those standards to all of the vendors I work with. Videographers, florists, caterers, and others are inclusive in their own businesses and, more often than not, are queer businesses themselves.
I actively seek out and recommend vendors who come from and respect all backgrounds. I want you to feel as comfortable as possible working with me, and that means I expect anyone else we work with to do the same.
Open communication at all times
No matter who you are, how you identify, or what your abilities are, I will always foster an environment of clear and open communication. I’ll share each step of the process with you, but I will also accept any and all feedback from you.
It’s important to me that you feel safe letting me know if I’ve said or done anything that makes you even the slightest bit uncomfortable or upset. Everyone feels included differently and if I’m not making you feel completely safe and comfortable, I’m not doing my job. Every step of the way, I am open to and welcome your thoughts, no matter what they are.
Accessibility in all aspects of my business
One aspect of inclusion that can be overlooked is accessibility. That means I will mask up if that makes you feel safe. I’ll find wheelchair accessible locations. I will always use high-contrast fonts and colors so my website, our communication, and your gallery are all easy to navigate.
I never want you to feel like there are poses we can’t do or that our shooting locations are limited. I want you to feel empowered, excited, and in love.
Fun fact: I’m queer, too!
Sometimes just knowing you’re working with a queer wedding photographer who can truly relate to and understand your experience is the biggest relief. I know what it’s like to see only cis-het representation in the media and I’m on a mission to change that one inclusive wedding at a time.
Let’s celebrate who you are, no matter who that is with wedding photos that make you feel (and look) like the total badass you are.