You’re engaged (yay!) and planning your dream wedding in New Zealand (double yay!). The dress, the suit, the stunning backdrop of Queenstown or Auckland—everything is falling into place. But wait… what about the photographer?
Finding the perfect LGBTQ+ wedding photographer is about more than just pretty pictures. You need someone who understands your love story, respects your identities, and captures you exactly as you are—without awkward posing or outdated, heteronormative vibes.
So, let’s break it down. Here’s how to find the perfect photographer who will celebrate your love, make you feel comfortable, and leave you with wedding photos you’ll cherish forever.
1. Find a Photographer Who Gets LGBTQ+ Love Stories
Not all wedding photographers are created equal. Some are fantastic at shooting straight weddings but may struggle when it comes to LGBTQ+ couples—whether it’s outdated posing, misgendering, or just an overall lack of experience.
🔹 Look at their portfolio – Do they feature LGBTQ+ couples? If not, ask why.
🔹 Check their language – Do they use inclusive wording? Do they avoid gendered terms like “bride and groom” when talking about all couples?
🔹 Read their testimonials – Have LGBTQ+ couples left glowing reviews?
If a photographer has a history of celebrating diverse love stories, you’re off to a great start!
2. Make Sure They Make You Feel Comfortable
Your photographer will be with you during intimate moments—getting ready, exchanging vows, sneaking in those “just married” kisses. Feeling comfortable is non-negotiable.
🌈 Do they respect your pronouns?
🌈 Do they take the time to get to know you as a couple?
🌈 Do they make you laugh and feel at ease?
If the vibe isn’t right, keep looking. You deserve someone who makes you feel like a rockstar, not just another client.
3. Choose a Style That Speaks to You
Do you love dreamy, light-filled portraits? Or are you all about moody, cinematic shots? Maybe you prefer a candid, documentary-style approach?
New Zealand has breathtaking locations for every style:
📍 Queenstown – Think mountain elopements and lakeside vows (see it here)
📍 Auckland – City-meets-nature, with lush parks and urban charm (explore Auckland)
📍 Wanaka – A stunning mix of mountains, lakes, and adventure elopements (visit Wanaka)
Find a photographer whose work makes you say, “OMG, I need photos like this!”
4. Avoid Forced, Awkward Posing
One of the biggest mistakes some photographers make with LGBTQ+ couples? Forcing traditional, straight wedding poses. You know the ones:
🚫 One person stands behind, “protectively” holding the other.
🚫 One partner always leads the dance or dip.
🚫 “So… who’s the bride and who’s the groom?” (Excuse me, what?)
A great LGBTQ+ photographer will capture your dynamic authentically—not force you into outdated roles. They’ll highlight your love exactly as it is, with poses that feel natural and true to you.
5. Look for an LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Vendor Network
A well-connected photographer will know which vendors and venues truly support LGBTQ+ weddings. Ask them:
✨ “Do you have experience working with LGBTQ+ couples?”
✨ “Can you recommend inclusive venues and vendors?”
✨ “Have you ever dealt with vendors who weren’t LGBTQ+ friendly?”
Some incredible LGBTQ+ friendly wedding venues in New Zealand:
💍 Trelawn Place, Queenstown – A cozy garden retreat with mountain views (visit here)
💍 Kauri Bay Boomrock, Auckland – A luxury coastal venue perfect for intimate weddings (see more)
💍 The Winehouse, Gibbston Valley – Rustic vineyard vibes with stunning scenery (explore here)
Choosing vendors who celebrate you will make your wedding planning stress-free and affirming.
6. Ask the Right Questions Before Booking
Don’t just look at their pretty Instagram grid—get the details before signing that contract!
📝 How many LGBTQ+ weddings have you photographed?
📝 How do you make couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?
📝 What’s your approach to posing?
📝 Can we meet for an engagement session first? (A great way to get comfortable before the big day!)
If their answers feel genuine and enthusiastic, you’ve found a winner!
7. Consider Budget vs. Value
Wedding photography is an investment, and while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember: these photos will last a lifetime.
💰 How much coverage do you need? (Full-day? Half-day?)
📷 Do they offer engagement shoots?
📖 Do they provide albums or prints?
Invest in someone who will deliver incredible, emotion-filled photos that take you right back to your wedding day every time you look at them.
8. Read Reviews, Trust Your Gut & Book Early!
LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding photographers in New Zealand are in high demand—so once you’ve found “the one,” don’t wait too long to book them!
✔️ Read reviews on sites like The Knot, WeddingWire, or Zola.
✔️ Check their social media for real weddings they’ve shot.
✔️ Trust your gut—if it feels right, it probably is!
Ready to Capture Your Love Story?
Your wedding photos should feel like you—joyful, intimate, and completely authentic. If you’re looking for a photographer who celebrates LGBTQ+ love stories and captures all the magic of your day, let’s chat!
🌟 See real love stories here: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Check out pricing & packages: Investment & Pricing
📩 Let’s make magic together: Contact Me
Because your love deserves to be captured exactly as it is—bold, beautiful, and unapologetically you. 🌈✨
