Last week, I got an inquiry from a family planning a trip to Mammoth Lakes. They were hoping to squeeze in a last-minute photo session during their visit, and as luck would have it, I’d just had a cancellation. I was excited to say yes and started chatting with them about timing and location.
Then they shared something that stuck with me.
They told me they had originally booked another photographer, but the session fell through. Before confirming with me, they asked a quiet, careful question:
“Are you okay photographing a same-sex couple?”
It stopped me in my tracks.
I told them — truthfully and from the heart — that it would be a joy and an honor. But I also felt an ache in my chest. The kind that comes from realizing how often queer couples are forced to ask that question. To wonder if their love will be accepted. If their joy will be met with celebration or resistance.
You should never have to ask if your love is welcome.
Your love should be seen, celebrated, and centered — not questioned.
This Is a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Love
If you’re a queer couple looking for a photographer in Mammoth Lakes, Zion, or anywhere in between — know this:
You are not just tolerated here. You are affirmed, celebrated, and uplifted.
Being photographed is an intimate experience. It’s about being fully yourself. Laughing, holding hands, wiping away tears, dancing around wildly or quietly soaking in the moment. You deserve to do that without shrinking. Without wondering if your love is “too much.” Without code-switching or hiding or checking to see who’s watching.
You belong in front of the camera, just as you are.
What LGBTQ+ Inclusion Looks Like Here
Inclusivity isn’t a buzzword. It’s baked into how I run my business and how I show up for you. Here’s what that looks like in action:
- You’ll see queer couples in my portfolio — because representation matters.
- I use gender-neutral language in my contracts and communications.
- I don’t assume roles or dynamics based on your gender expression.
- I ask for your pronouns, honor them, and make sure everyone involved feels respected.
- I vet vendors and collaborators who share these values.
- I keep learning — through workshops, conversations, and listening to my clients — so I can keep showing up better.
As a queer-inclusive wedding photographer, it’s not just about taking pretty pictures. It’s about creating a space where your story gets to unfold honestly and joyfully.
From One of My Couples
“We were nervous going into the process — it’s not always easy finding LGBTQ+ affirming vendors. But Jaymie made us feel so at ease from the start. Our session felt like a celebration, not a photoshoot. We laughed, we cried, and when we saw the images… it felt like we were finally seen.”
— Micah & Jules
If You’re Planning an LGBTQ+ Wedding or Elopement…
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy mountaintop ceremony, a barefoot desert elopement, or just a candid afternoon with your partner during your vacation, know that this is a space where your love is welcome.
I’m based in both Mammoth Lakes, CA and Zion National Park, UT — and I’m committed to photographing weddings and elopements that reflect who you really are. No stiff posing, no weird energy, no questions about whether you “fit the mold.” Just real moments, real connection, and photography that honors your love story.
Want to Work Together?
If you’re a queer couple looking for a photographer who gets it — I’d love to connect. Let’s plan something beautiful, thoughtful, and totally you.
👉 Reach out here and tell me what you’re dreaming up.
🏳️🌈 Resources I Recommend:
- GLAAD Wedding Guide
- Equally Wed – LGBTQ+ wedding planning inspiration
- The Trevor Project – Mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth
