June & Beyond

Every June, Pride Month arrives like a breath of fresh air — loud, colorful, bold, and unapologetic. It’s a celebration of queer joy, but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality, visibility, and safety. And for the record; I think its ok to be a bit louder during pride month, but the fight should continue year round.

I’m a wedding and boudoir photographer who happens to be bisexual, and I’m also someone in a relationship that, to the outside world, may appear “straight.” That comes with layers — and with privilege. I want to be clear: I recognize the privilege I hold because I can walk through the world without facing the daily scrutiny, judgment, or risk that so many others in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community do.

We often forget that pride is a protest, not just a party. Pride started as a riot — a response to police brutality and systemic violence, led by trans women of color like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. It wasn’t rainbow merch and hashtags. It was resistance. We’ve come a long way, but there is still work to do. Queer and trans folks still face disproportionate violence, discrimination, and erasure. So when I say I am an 2SLGBTQIA+-inclusive wedding and boudoir photographer, it’s not just about being welcoming. It’s about building a business that actively creates an affirming, inclusive, and most of all, a safe space. I don't claim to be perfect; I still have work to do on myself, but know that I am open to feedback from my clients on how I can do better (should they decide to give it; it is no ones responsibilty but my own to educate myself).

Queer love deserves more than just visibility — It deserves celebration. I like to photograph people who challenge norms be it their wedding or a boudoir shoot - who ditch tradition, rewrite the rules, and love fearlessly. We often say “representation matters,” and it’s true. When you can see yourself reflected in joyful, romantic, beautiful images, it can affirm your place in the world. It can reminds you that you belong here. I strive to be a safe, affirming choice for queer couples and individuals who want photos that reflect who they are, not just what they look like. Whether your wedding is witchy, punk, poly, backyard, barefoot, colorful, quiet, chaotic, queer, or beautifully untraditional, any photographer should be honored to be a part of it. Be it me or any other inclusive photographer, my wish is that you are able to find someone that can best tell your story with the authenticity it deserves.

You are seen. You are celebrated. You Matter.
Happy Pride.

A gentle note before you go:
If you’re part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and you’re struggling — please know you’re not alone. Pride is powerful, but it can also bring up complicated feelings, especially in a world that doesn’t always feel safe or supportive.

Here are a few organizations that can help:

The Trevor Project – 24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ youth: www.thetrevorproject.org

Trans Lifeline – Peer support run by and for trans people: www.translifeline.org

LGBT National Help Center – Free, confidential support lines and resources: www.glbthotline.org

There’s nothing weak about asking for help — it’s one of the bravest things you can do.

Casey Chapman