Where LGBTQ+ Folks Find Gender-Affirming Photography Rooted in Care, Presence, and Joy
For many queer and trans folks, being photographed is not only about how you look.
It’s about how you’re received.
I approach this work with deep care, shaped by lived experience — growing up in an evangelical church and seeing how fear and repression can ask people to hide parts of themselves to feel safe.
I’ve also seen what becomes possible when people are met with acceptance. I’ve watched people I love find ease and joy in being fully themselves, and I’ve found more of that freedom in my own life too.
If you carry religious trauma, family tension, or the feeling of not being fully understood, you’re not wrong for being you. You. are. so. amazing.
It would be an honor to photograph you with care and create images that reflect you as you are — soft, complex, and real. Images that mark being seen, without asking you to perform.
As someone who shares in this community, I truly photograph with care.
Lived Understanding, rooted in training and experience
I’ve been photographing people for over two decades and am privileged to have earned three degrees in photography including a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from Art Center College of Design.
I was mentored by renowned photographers including Mary Ellen Mark in New York City, and have extensive training in both technical skill and visual storytelling.
But just as important as my formal training is what life has taught me: empathy, patience, and how to hold space during vulnerable moments.
In their words
"Brody takes a thoughtful and creative approach to the session."
They really get to know you beforehand through questions and conversations to find out what you are ultimately looking to get out of your time together. This provides a great outcome with a bevy of images to choose from. Easily five stars.
-shalini
"Mare is an amazing human! "
"They did such a great job helping me forget how nervous I was about my new professional transition headshots and the finished photos are flawless!"
-B
working together
01
REach out
Start by telling me what you’re hoping for — or what you’re unsure about.
You don’t need perfect language or a clear vision. This first step is about connection and seeing whether working together feels like a good fit.
02
Let's plan your session
We’ll talk through the session details so expectations feel clear.
Depending on the session you choose, that may mean selecting a location together or meeting at a set location, along with reviewing timing, pacing, and anything you want me to be mindful of so you can arrive feeling prepared.
03
the Session
You’ll be guided gently, with space for natural interaction within the time we have together.
There’s no pressure to perform or pose. Even in shorter sessions, the focus is on ease, respect, and capturing you in a way that feels authentic.
04
your images
Within three weeks, you’ll receive your custom online photo gallery.
All images are included, thoughtfully edited, and fully yours — to keep, download, and share!
thankful for the journey
a few things about me...
Queer, non-binary parent with lived experience navigating visibility and Being seen.
Calm, intuitive, and deeply curious
Documentary-trained photographer drawn to what’s real, not staged
Believes joy and safety are foundational, not optional
Drawn to quiet moments, natural light, and honest connection
love to hike, meditate, and feel gratitude
A place to be yourself,
without explanation.
At Queer Joy Photo, I create photography experiences rooted in dignity, presence, and radical celebration.
I guide gently instead of directing forcefully.
I prioritize consent, pacing, and intuition.
I create environments where queer and trans folks can soften, breathe, and show up without performing.
The photos matter — but they’re really a record of something deeper:
a moment of being witnessed with care.
Ready to create images that truly feel like you?
Whether I’m photographing individuals, relationships, or families, I work joyfully and pay attention to how you move, pause, and connect, letting the session unfold in a way that feels natural.
