In 2018, as part of my study in photography, I embarked on a project to capture a sense of Pride in the LGBTIQ+ community.

(LGBTIQ+ = Lesbian, Gay, BiSexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer. + stands for Straight allies, and other undefined identities).

Rather than pride in being part of the community, I wanted to capture a sense of what they were proud OF. To explore and represent the fact that even though we are part of the LGBTIQ community, we are so much more than that.

Each portrait shows us the subject, but also tells us about the subject and what they are proud of using the environment around them.

Producing this series was hard work, with 3 or more shoots a week over the course of 3 months (outside working hours!). Scheduling, preplanning and logistics was a significant investment in time.

What I really enjoyed in producing this work was getting to know each of these amazing individuals, what drove them and about their pride. Being able to have the time to discuss this with them really helped me to consider how I would place each subject, what would be in the background, and what feeling I wanted the shots to portray.

You can see the rest of the images here.

I want this to be an ongoing project, if you would like to be involved, or know of anyone who may be suitable, please send me a message. I'd love to have a chat!

Luke