Philadelphia Zoo Engagement Session | Isabelle + Nicole

When Nicole and Isabelle reached out about wedding photography, they explained how they were looking for a queer photographer who has worked with folks with a wide range of body types. They also wanted someone comfortable navigating the historically gendered wedding process with those who fall a bit outside the binary. Working with fellow trans and neurodivergent people energizes me throughout the busy seasons that previously spiraled me into burnouts.

Nicole and Isabelle shared how Persephone is the inspiration for their wedding’s vibe, emerging from their mutual love of Greek mythology and pomegranates. When fellow artists hire me (Isabelle is a photographer and knife maker, while Nicole is a painter), it is the ultimate compliment because there’s a level of trust exchanged that feels intimidating in the most fun and challenging way.

I’ve really treasured our emails about fat liberation and gender identity–it means the world to me that they felt their engagement photos documented the intersections of their identities from a place of warmth and love.

Nicole and Isabelle were introduced by a friend via Reddit of all places, which led to a life-altering, 12-hour date. Isabelle shared how when she’s with Nicole, life is quiet and she’s comfortable with them in the worst and best of times. Nicole expressed that they love Isabelle’s genuine interest and excitement with which they approach the world.

We soaked up the perfect day together at the Philadelphia Zoo, feeding hammerkops and peacocks at Wings of Asia, and very neurodivergently making T-Rex arms together at the bronze statue of a Hadrosaurus. I loved how we bounced conversations around tangentially and I learned so much from them during our time together.