Inclusivity in Wedding and Elopement Photography

Here at Sydney Rose Portraits, I believe that one of the many things that sets me apart is my dedication to inclusivity. Unfortunately, we live in a world where not everyone shares the same values, and since this is an issue near and dear to my heart, I wanted to take some time to sit down and dedicate a blog to explaining the ways in which I practice inclusivity in my photography. Consider this blog to essentially be a much more long-winded diversity statement from yours truly.

Prioritizing pronouns for all clients

I am proud to say that Sydney Rose Portraits is a safe space for anyone in the LGBTQ+ community or who identifies as queer. As a queer-friendly business, I prioritize asking for the pronouns of my clients so that everyone is on the same page and feels at ease, as well as generally just using inclusive language. When you fill out my client questionnaire, you have the option to include your pronouns, and I will always respect them. It’s also 100% okay if you don’t want to share those yet! I’m here for you, whatever you decide.

It’s also important to me that I use inclusive language in my marketing materials and website. I avoid assumptions about the gender or background of couples and always refer to client parties as “partners” when I draw up contracts in order to maintain gender neutrality and not exclude anyone or cause discomfort. I believe in all love, and I like my branding and your experience with me to reflect that. 

Showcasing diversity in all business aspects

I’m giving my website a bit of a facelift as part of a slow-season project (see my blog on that, as well!). One thing I am working on doing more is making sure I show clients a diverse portfolio. I want any potential client to be able to see themself reflected in my work, whether it be in their looks or beliefs.

I try my best to showcase a diverse range of couples and weddings in my portfolio and include photos from weddings of different cultures, backgrounds, orientations, and styles. Even just on the front page of my website, I have couples of different creeds, sexualities, and ethnicities. This is how I act on my brand values and celebrate the diversity of love; by using images that represent various ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, and body types, I ensure that my visual content reflects the reality of diverse love stories and shows how my words of support for all become actions in my business.

Engage in inclusive campaigns

Another way I practice inclusivity is by running marketing campaigns that promote inclusivity and diversity in the wedding industry. This includes blog posts, social media campaigns, and collaborations. Early on in my career, I did a photoshoot campaign centered around “My body, my choice.” I remember doing it and hearing people tell me I may lose clients by showing my political beliefs, and my response being, “Then those aren’t the kind of people I want to work with.”

Partnerships and collaborations

Part of how I make my clients feel comfortable and let them know that all are welcome at Sydney Rose Portraits is by surrounding myself with people who share my same values of love and inclusion. When it is my choice, I am only going to collaborate with vendors and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion in the wedding industry.

Communication is key

One of the Sydney Rose Portraits values is respect, which means communication at all points of our relationship as client and photographer. I make it easy for potential clients — and those who have already hired me — to reach out and inquire about my services, or to ask questions, no matter how far along in the process we are. I also encourage feedback both during and after our time together. Everyone has unique needs and concerns, and I take that into account and make adjustments so that I can ensure your satisfaction.

Anti-Discrimination policy

I am not shy about displaying my inclusive values. My brand guide talks extensively about inclusivity, and my Instagram bio clearly states, “All are welcome here.” I do not discriminate against anyone, so if you are looking for a respectful photographer, I am your girl.

Customization options

Whether it be extra hours at a wedding ceremony or flexible pricing, part of the way I make my brand inclusive to everyone is by offering customizable options. I offer a range of different wedding, elopement, and engagement packages with different tiers of coverage to meet whatever your unique needs are, and I’m always willing to discuss tailoring my services to your specific requests.

As always, I am here to help, and I would love to meet you and capture your special moments!

TLDR;

Your Love is Valid. Women’s Rights are Human Rights. Black Lives Matter. YOU are Important.

I'm here to photograph your love in whatever ways that means to you. With tailored experiences for every client; a safe, welcoming space for all love stories; and aligned collaborations.

Your story matters here.