Finding a Trans-Affirming Family Photographer in Seattle

Finding a trans-affirming family photographer in Seattle shouldn’t be difficult. If you’re trans, nonbinary, gender-expansive, or you’re parenting a kid who is, you deserve photos where everyone is respected. From honoring your name, asking (not assuming) your gender expression, to highlighting what you want to focus on, it shouldn’t feel hard. And if you’re plus size and/or queer on top of that? Congrats, you’ve probably had enough experiences being treated like a problem to solve. You’re not.

You look good enough to be celebrated, loved, and part of the memories in this body that you have right now.

When you’re searching (Seattle, Everett, Tacoma, Bellingham, all the rainy places), look for politically queer folks. A trans-affirming photographer will speak up on political issues right now because trans folks are under attack constantly. Look for folks who are loud about what’s going on right now. Because all of our liberation is tied up together.

In their own work, photographers should have systems that are center trans experiences. This can look like in intake forms that asks for names + pronouns (and actually uses them), language like “parent/partner” instead of forcing roles, a clear policy about consent and privacy, and a portfolio that shows real diversity - not just one token “look we did it” session from 2019.

Here’s what you can ask before you book, because I hope you know you can interview multiple people to find the best fit for you:

“What happens if someone uses the wrong name or pronouns? How do you respond when you do it?”

“Can we keep certain poses off-limits?”

“Can I bring a friend?”

“Can we avoid touching / adjust posing without hands-on help?”

A good photographer won’t get defensive. They’ll be relieved you care about feeling safe. The best thing anyone can do as a client of mine is tell me how I can best support them! The goal isn’t to perform a perfect family; it’s to celebrate yours how it is today.

And if you’re reading this thinking, “Okay, but I’m tired and I just want someone who gets it,” I hear you. Your family photos should feel like a deep exhale, like you can show up as you are, with whatever bodies, genders, dynamics, and chaos you’ve got. You deserve to be treated with respect the entire time. You deserve images that feel affirming, not stressful.

If you’re in the Seattle area (Everett/Tacoma/Bellingham included) and you want outdoor family portraits that are trans-affirming, plus size-friendly, and very pro-you, that’s literally what I do. Let’s make some photos that feel like home.