Chit Chat With Queer Wedding Photographer, Eli Wing
- Lauren Depass
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Captivating. Beautiful. Iconic. These are just some of the words that come to mind when describing Eli’s (he/they) photography. With a keen eye for capturing candid queer moments, Eli’s photos are so much more than a moment frozen in time, they’re a joyfully queer story ready to be told.
Join us as we go behind the lens with Eli Wing, founder of Wing Wedding Photography to explore his journey, inspiration and commitment to allyship within the LGBTQ+ wedding space.
Hey Eli, we’re so excited to have you here! Let’s start at the beginning. What inspired you to become an LGBTQ+ inclusive supplier in the wedding industry?
Having been to many weddings as a queer guest, I often felt that the wedding industry is very straight dominated, and during these events, at times felt out of place. Whether it be the photos that are "all the guys" or "just the girls", or simply having to choose between wearing a suit or a dress. I wanted to make the wedding industry a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ people in every aspect.
How do you ensure that your business is inclusive and welcoming to LGBTQ+ to-be-weds?
When a potential client finds my website or social media, I have my pronouns and some facts about me readily available for them. I also ensure that my portfolio features all types of couples and that the terminology that I use is gender neutral. For example, saying couple instead of bride and groom, talking about wedding outfits rather than dress or suit, and referring to chosen family and friends rather than just family.
Incredible! What do you love most about working in the wedding industry, particularly with LGBTQ+ lovers?
In the mainstream media recently, the focus on LGBTQ+ people has been very negative. I love
being part of a day that is purely about love and happiness, being able to capture it and share that positivity is my favourite thing about the queer wedding industry. Being a part of changing the depiction of queer people in the media is so special to me.
What's the most unique or unexpected request you've received from a client?
I had a couple who wanted me to photograph their rings with their guinea pig! I am a big believer that animals are a big part of the family so when this client said their guinea pig was coming to the wedding, I was so excited. It's definitely not something I've taken photos of before!
Oh wow, we need to see these photos! And what's your favourite part of the wedding day?
My favourite part of the wedding day is the confetti shot. That moment when the couple walk out having just gotten married and all of their family and friends are waiting outside for them is magical and they are my favourite shots to get.
If WING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY had a theme song, what would it be and why?
'My Body's My Buddy' by Tessa Violet and Brye. I think it’s a beautiful song about loving and
accepting your body and yourself.
Great choice! If you could offer one piece of advice to lovers planning their wedding, what would it be?
Get a photographer that you are comfortable with! The photos are the aspect of a wedding that
will last the longest. You will see these photos forever. You want to be relaxed and trust that you are in safe hands with your photographer.
What advice would you give to other wedding suppliers who are looking to become more LGBTQ+ inclusive?
Change the language that you use. It’s so easy to make everyone feel welcome by using terms like 'lovers', 'couple' or 'spouses' instead of gendered language like bride or groom. Also, include your pronouns on your website and social media, especially if you are Cis and straight. This is an important step to making LGBTQ+ people feel more welcomed and safe with you.
Finally, share a fun fact about yourself or your business that most people wouldn't know.
I really enjoy embroidery and sewing! It's such a calm way to relax in the evening.
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