Why Choosing an LGBTQ+ Friendly Photographer Matters
Planning a wedding, elopement, or engagement session should be filled with excitement and joy—not stress over whether your photographer will respect and celebrate your love. As a gay-owned business, Art G Photography was built with inclusivity, authenticity, and safety at its core. As a queer photographer in Ohio, I know firsthand the struggles of finding vendors who are not just "accepting" but truly affirming and enthusiastic about capturing LGBTQ+ love stories.
When I started working with wedding vendors, I quickly realized how difficult it was to find professionals who were openly LGBTQ+ friendly. The anxiety of wondering, Will they be weird about this? Will we have to come out all over again? Will we feel safe and celebrated?—it’s a struggle too many couples face. That’s exactly why I do what I do. You deserve a photographer who sees you, values you, and captures your love exactly as it is—bold, beautiful, and real.
What Makes Art G Photography Different?
✅ I Get It – As a queer person myself, I know how crucial it is to feel safe, seen, and comfortable in front of the camera. No awkward posing, no outdated expectations—just your love, your way.
✅ A Judgment-Free, Safe Space – Whether you're planning a vibrant celebration or an intimate elopement, I create a space where you can be unapologetically yourselves.
✅ Vendor Recommendations – Need a florist, planner, or venue that actually supports LGBTQ+ couples? I’ve got you covered with a vetted list of inclusive vendors in Northeast Ohio.
✅ Locations That Welcome You – I help couples find affirming, inclusive places to capture their love without worrying about judgmental stares or uncomfortable situations.
Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Locations for Photos Near Akron & Cleveland
Finding the perfect location for your engagement session, elopement, or wedding portraits is key! Here are some of my favorite safe and inclusive spots in Northeast Ohio:
🌿 Nature & Outdoor Spaces
Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Gorgeous trails, waterfalls, and stunning landscapes. Perfect for couples who love the great outdoors.
Lakewood Park Solstice Steps – A breathtaking view of Lake Erie, ideal for golden-hour magic.
Hocking Hills – A bit of a drive but worth it for the dreamy forests and waterfalls.
🏙 Urban & Trendy Settings
Cleveland’s Flats District – Industrial vibes, colorful murals, and the scenic waterfront.
Akron Art Museum – A unique, artsy backdrop with modern architecture.
Ohio City Murals – The perfect blend of color, culture, and character.
💒 Wedding & Elopement Venues
The Madison (Cleveland, OH) – Sleek, modern, and LGBTQ+ affirming.
Gervasi Vineyard (Canton, OH) – A romantic, Tuscany-inspired winery.
The Trailhead (Akron, OH) – A rustic-chic venue with an emphasis on inclusivity.
How to Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Vendors (A Checklist!)
Not every vendor who says they are “LGBTQ+ friendly” is actually affirming and inclusive. Here’s a checklist to help you vet potential vendors:
✅ Check Their Website & Social Media – Do they use inclusive language? Feature diverse couples? Have a clear statement of support?
✅ Look for Real Representation – Do they showcase actual LGBTQ+ couples (not just styled shoots)?
✅ Ask Direct Questions – “Have you worked with LGBTQ+ couples before?” “What’s your approach to making all couples feel comfortable?”
✅ Read Reviews – See what past LGBTQ+ clients have said about their experience.
✅ Gauge Their Reaction – When you mention your partner, do they react with excitement or hesitation? Trust your gut!
Final Thoughts: Love is Love, and It Deserves to Be Celebrated!
Not every vendor who says they are “LGBTQ+ friendly” is actually affirming and inclusive. Here’s a checklist to help you vet potential vendors:
✅ Check Their Website & Social Media – Do they use inclusive language? Feature diverse couples? Have a clear statement of support?
✅ Look for Real Representation – Do they showcase actual LGBTQ+ couples (not just styled shoots)?
✅ Ask Direct Questions – “Have you worked with LGBTQ+ couples before?” “What’s your approach to making all couples feel comfortable?”
✅ Read Reviews – See what past LGBTQ+ clients have said about their experience.
✅ Gauge Their Reaction – When you mention your partner, do they react with excitement or hesitation? Trust your gut!