Celebrating Queer Joy: Ross Willsher on Love Without Limits
Wedding photographer Ross Willsher reflects on Pride, queer joy, and how he creates inclusive, authentic celebrations for couples of every identity
In celebration of Pride, we’re spotlighting some of the incredible LGBTQIA+ professionals making waves in the wedding industry. We caught up with wedding photographer Ross Willsher, whose work is all about capturing genuine, joyful, and meaningful moments for couples of every identity.
Here, Ross opens up about what Pride means to him, how his identity shapes his approach, and the changes he hopes to see in the industry.
Celebrating Pride & Capturing Love
Ross Willsher reflects on queer joy, navigating inclusivity, and the power of authentic connection in weddings.
A Passion for People & Moments
Ross, a proudly gay wedding photographer, has long been drawn to the magic of weddings. “I’ve always loved photographing people and being creative under pressure, so weddings seemed a natural fit,” he shares.
For Ross, it’s all about the energy of the day - the happiness, connection, and milestone moments that shine through his lens and into the memories couples keep forever.
What Pride Means, Personally & Professionally
For Ross, Pride is both a celebration and a moment of reflection.
“It’s about saying ‘I’m so proud to be who I am and you should be so proud of who you are,’” he says.
From his journey as an anxious, closeted teen to now running a proudly inclusive business, Ross sees his role not just as a photographer, but as someone helping queer couples recognise "their worth and validity."
Stand Out Moments of Queer Joy
One of Ross’s favourite parts of his work is seeing couples transform over the course of their wedding planning.
“I love when couples move from uncertainty - worrying they don’t belong in the wedding world - to creating a celebration that truly resonates with them,” he says.
Speeches at queer weddings often touch on acceptance and global LGBTQ+ progress, something Ross finds deeply meaningful: “Nothing is taken for granted.”
Navigating Tokenism and Finding His Voice
Like many queer creatives, Ross has had to navigate the fine line between genuine inclusivity and tokenism.
Early in his career, he says, “I didn’t realise some industry people wanted to showcase my work just to make themselves look more inclusive.” Over time, Ross has found his voice and now carefully chooses when and how his brand engages politically, staying true to his values.
Shaping an Empathetic & Safe Experience
Ross’s identity shapes his work in meaningful ways. “I have a greater empathy and appreciation for seeing couples as people, not just clients,” he explains.
He creates spaces where couples feel safe to simply be themselves, focusing on movement and genuine connection rather than rigid, gendered poses - something that benefits all couples, queer and straight alike.
Hopes for the Future of the Wedding Industry
Ross wants to see the industry move beyond surface-level gestures like rainbow flags and truly embrace meaningful LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
“More luxury brands should work harder toward inclusivity,” he says. “LGBTQIA+ weddings lend themselves beautifully to refined, artistic celebrations, and that deserves to be seen.”
Ross's Advice for Queer Couples Planning a Wedding
His advice for LGBTQIA+ couples who are wedding planning? “Start slow, don’t rush, and be inspired by all of life - art, literature, fashion, music - not just other weddings.”
It’s this thoughtful, intentional approach that Ross believes leads to the most authentic celebrations.
What's Sparking Joy Right Now
When it comes to what's bringing Ross joy in his life right now, his answer is all about love: "This year I'm celebrating 17 years with James - my husband of one year! And I'm ready for a wonderful summer of weddings to begin."
He's also going to see Beyonce: "I just need to get my cowboy hat sorted!"
Ross’s perspective reminds us that weddings, at their core, are about love, connection, and authenticity - no matter your identity. As Pride season continues, his message is one we can all carry forward: be proud of who you are, and create a celebration that reflects you in every way.
If you want to find out more about Ross and his work, you can here.
If you want to read more of our Celebrating Queer Joy series, check out the links below:
