About Matt and His Business
Matt is a talented wedding photographer who offers his services across the UK and internationally. With a passion for capturing the magic of love stories, Matt specialises in creating stunning visual narratives that couples and lovers can cherish forever. His approach is rooted in authenticity, ensuring every moment feels natural and heartfelt.
Embracing LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in the Wedding Industry
Matt’s journey as an LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding photographer stems from a deeply personal place. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community himself, he understands the importance of feeling safe and comfortable with wedding suppliers. Reflecting on his own wedding experience, Matt shares, “I wanted to know that my suppliers were fully inclusive and wouldn’t judge me or my other half. That’s the same sense of reassurance I aim to provide for my clients.”
Matt ensures that his couples and lovers feel supported, cared for, and celebrated throughout their wedding journey. “I’ll have their back, look after them, and make sure they are comfortable throughout their day” he promises.
A Business Built on Inclusivity
Inclusivity is at the heart of Matt’s business. From using gender-neutral language in all communications to incorporating diverse love stories in his marketing, Matt works tirelessly to create a welcoming space for all to-be-weds. His commitment to ongoing learning ensures he remains attuned to the evolving needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Specific initiatives include:
Inclusive language across documentation, website, and social media
Donating photography sessions as raffle prizes to support causes like World AIDS Day
Actively planning LGBTQ+ styled shoots to inspire and represent underrepresented love stories
Memorable Moments and Heartwarming Stories
One standout experience for Matt was capturing a surprise proposal disguised as a dog photography session, the proposal unfolded beautifully when one-half of the couple got down on one knee. “It was my first surprise engagement,” Matt recalls. “It was such a sweet moment.”
Matt also fondly remembers an impromptu dance session during couple portraits at a wedding. “We played some wedding tunes, had a boogie, and shared a laugh. It was a perfect, unscripted moment.”
He reminds anyone reading to do their big day, their way.
"Traditions? Ignore them. Do your wedding YOUR way. It’s your day and you want to remember it as your own."
Championing Diversity in Representation
Representation matters deeply to Matt. To ensure his work showcases diverse love stories, he has initiated LGBTQ+ photoshoots and continues to build a portfolio that reflects all forms of love. Next year, Matt plans to organise an LGBTQ+ styled shoot featuring only LGBTQ+ individuals to inspire couples and lovers planning their special day.
Overcoming Challenges and Making an Impact
While Matt hasn’t faced significant challenges in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity, he did encounter negativity from a supplier early in his career. “At the time, I didn’t address it, but now I feel stronger and more prepared to stand up for myself and others,” he says.
Matt believes his work is helping to create a safer, more inclusive wedding industry. He actively educates fellow suppliers on becoming LGBTQ+ supportive and encourages them to embrace inclusivity wholeheartedly.
Advice for Wedding Suppliers
Matt’s advice to other suppliers is clear: “Educate yourself and learn all about inclusivity. If you aren’t sure, ask LGBTQ+ suppliers how you can be more LGBTQ+ inclusive. By working together, we can make the wedding industry a safe and comfortable space for all.”He also emphasises the importance of acknowledging and learning from mistakes, saying, “Don’t shy away from apologising for being wrong. It shows respect."
A sense of belonging
Matt reminisced about his own story and his work with the LGBTQ+ community.
"It's cheesy but I just love the love stories and being able to capture a snippet of it for lovers to treasure."
"For me working with LGBTQ+ lovers makes me feel like I’m home, having only come out at the age of 30, I never felt I belonged before then. Once I came out, I was so happy being around other LGBTQ+ people as I could be myself and not feel like I had to pretend to be someone else."
Vibe check!
We asked Matt a few quick-fire questions to get a feel of his personality and a bit of a vibe check!
If your business had a theme song, what would it be and why?
If Matt’s business had a theme song, it would be Happy by Pharrell Williams. “I’m always smiling because I absolutely love what I do,” he says
How do you like to unwind after a busy day of providing your service?
After a busy day, Matt enjoys relaxing with his husband and their adorable sausage dog, Frank (short for Frankfurter)
Hidden Talents: Before becoming a photographer, Matt studied graphic design and worked as a vulcaniser. (He said to have a guess what that is before Googling!)
Describe your dream wedding (real or imaginary) in three words
Matt describes his dream wedding (real or imaginary!) as "fun, colourful and relaxed"
Finally, share a fun fact about yourself or your business that most people wouldn't know
Matt has OCD and checks things in patterns of four. “If you see me swinging my car door handle, it’s just me making sure it’s locked,” he laughs.
Matt’s passion for inclusivity and his dedication to celebrating love in all its forms make him a true trailblazer in the wedding industry. Matt is a wonderful choice for couples and lovers seeking a photographer who genuinely understands and values their journey.
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