How To Elevate Your LGBTQ+ Couple Photo Shoots And Create A Safe Space
Since you’ve made it here, I’m going to safely assume you’ve done your part on educating yourself as an ally of the queer community. And now you want to go the extra step/at least take better photos.
So we won’t dwell too long on the more well known tips such as asking client’s pronouns, using gender neutral and inclusive language, and diversity in portfolio.
We’re going to get right into posing and creating a safe space for the best candid images!
Forget The Concept Of Gender (and Height)
A lot of posing guides will tell photographers to place the man here and the woman there. Or maybe not explicitly, but the taller person (cis man) does the dip, twirl, piggy back.
Well, let me tell you that as soon as you start shooting queer couples, all of that “go-to” posing falls flat. Please imagine myself, a 5’1 masc presenting person, dipping my 5’7 femme girlfriend…or the opposite! No, it’s just not for us.
So the solution here is to simply ask! “Would either of you be comfortable with this pose?” And then let the couple answer and place themselves the way they feel comfortable. I know that sometimes we have to be more hands on and that’s where your communication comes in. You can always push them a little out of their comfort zone while being respectful.
Here’s a picture of my girlfriend and I in Paris (casual). Normally I would feel that this pose is a little “too feminine” for me, because I want people to perceive me as typically more masculine. I can’t remember exactly, but I’m sure Lauren had asked and we were having so much fun, I just let myself be vulnerable. And now it’s one of my favorite photos of us!
Photography by Lauren Shoepfer
There’s a line that you walk between respecting someone’s comfort and presentation to the world, while also treating their experience in front of the camera like anyone else. Clients should always walk away feeling empowered having learned new things about personal expression. Those lessons transcend the binary and queer people are not shy to learning more about themselves daily.
Consider Your Public Audience
Most queer people have experienced discrimination throughout their lives and are not new to triggering encounters in public spaces. So when you’re deciding on a location, I think it’s a good blanket rule to choose a less populated space, if possible. Some of us are very out and proud while others lack the privilege of being so loud about it. And even though the people here are all for public displays of affection for everyone, I don’t think the thought ever leaves our brains that we may be the victims of hate. Add a camera and all eyes are on you.
Let’s be real, I’d square up for any of my clients!!!
But we want to avoid that, I suppose. So if you can help your couple feel at ease, I would highly recommend it.
When In Doubt Go Lifestyle
This could be applied for almost any couple, but if you’re just starting out or have shy models, photograph people in their natural state. Go to their house, a bar they love, a coffee shop, gym, wherever they feel safe or have an activity to focus on. You will start to see the frames unfold and can even gently direct them to do it again.
As inclusive photographers, we have a responsibility to serve and uplift communities because they are trusting us emotionally and financially. And as any good business owner knows, your customer service is key.
I’m looking forward to a future with more inclusive photographers who are working to activate the community by creating a safe space. And I’d love to hear from anyone who has any other tips or experiences they have to share!
