Haydn Brown writes about a career in photography

I am a queer photographer based in the North East of England, specialising in capturing the lives, artistry, and love stories of the LGBTQIA+ community. From vibrant Pride celebrations to drag performances and queer weddings, my work uplifts and preserves LGBTQIA+ narratives. My style is bright, colourful, and dynamic, reflecting the energy of the community I’m proud to be part of.

My passion for photography began by chance. Although I was always artistic, it wasn’t until I took my camera to my first Pride after coming out in 2017 that I discovered photography’s power as a tool for storytelling and advocacy.

A career in photography became a natural next step with my background in Fashion Communication, where I honed my creative and visual skills. I also won Graduate London Fashion Week, an experience that significantly influenced my approach to visual storytelling.

Since then, my photography has evolved from documenting queer joy at Pride events into a professional career. I’m now honoured to be the official photographer for multiple Pride organisations across the North East, including Northern Pride, Gateshead Pride, Sunderland Pride, South Tyneside Pride, and Pride in Tees Valley.

This year, I’m also partnering on organising the Newcastle Pride Fringe Festival—a month-long celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture. The festival will feature pop-up events like comedy nights and interactive cinema screenings, bringing together different aspects of our community.

My work extends beyond event photography into the creative realm. I collaborate with LGBTQIA+ artists to produce visually compelling and personal projects. From conceptual photoshoots to artistic portraits, my goal is to amplify queer voices. Whether working with drag performers, artists, or activists, I strive to create art that reflects their stories and identities.

Drag holds a special place in my heart. I’ve worked with drag artists across the world and created content for RuPaul’s Drag Race participants. A rewarding shoot was with Andy Gardiner, Mr Gay Great Britain 2024, for a Wizard of Oz-inspired photoshoot featuring them as Dorothy with plaits and rhinestoned ruby slippers.

My favourite photoshoot was from a while back with Choriza May; the whole set-up was surreal. We shot at St James’ Park (Newcastle’s football stadium and one of the most iconic buildings in the North East; we had free reign on the entire space and got to go on the pitch for our shoot.

One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is photographing LGBTQIA+ weddings. For many queer couples, their love stories have been sidelined or misrepresented. A queer photographer can make a world of difference—understanding chosen families, non-traditional dynamics, and the significance of queer unions. My goal is to create a safe, affirming, and joyful space, ensuring their love is captured authentically. I also work as a nightlife event photographer in Newcastle’s queer scene, documenting the vibrancy and energy of our spaces. I ran my own club night, platforming queer people and promoting self-expression. These experiences deepened my understanding of LGBTQIA+ spaces and the importance of capturing them for future generations.

Currently, I’m working on an archival project to preserve LGBTQIA+ history, collaborating with local Pride organisations. I believe documenting our history is vital—not just for us, but for those who come after us.

Representation matters. Seeing ourselves reflected in media, art, and the images that document our lives is crucial. My work is more than just taking photos—it’s about ensuring queer joy, resilience, and love are seen, valued, and remembered. When composing a shot, I focus not just on technical aspects but on the energy and connection within the frame. Whether capturing movement on a dance floor or the raw emotion in an embrace, my goal is to create images that feel alive and authentic.

Photography is for everyone, no matter how expensive your kit is or how creative you are.

For those pursuing photography, ask yourself: How can you make an impact? Photography has the power to change how people see the world.

Today, I view my work as not just capturing moments but creating history. Art and creativity have always been part of my life, and photography became the way I could channel these passions. In light of recent changes in UK politics, preserving and documenting the stories of the LGBTQIA+ community has never been more important. Through my lens, I aim to ensure our history is remembered, celebrated, and passed on to future generations.

Photography is more than a job—it’s my passion, my community, and my pride.

Creative Instagram: @Haydnb_Photography

Event Instagram: @HaydnB_EventPhotography

Website: www.haydnbrownphotography.com/welcome

Facebook: www.facebook.com/haydnbphotography