LGBTQ+ Photography Education and Intimate Storytelling at Venture Folk Retreat
This year’s Venture Folk Retreat in Byron Bay wasn’t just another photography workshop; it was a transformative experience that placed LGBTQ+ education at the heart of every lesson. Over several days, photographers came together to learn how to authentically capture and celebrate queer love stories within a truly safe and inclusive space.
With education sessions led by Tara from Dancing With Her and Los Angeles–based photographer Kelly Balch, the retreat offered an intimate learning environment for 15 photographers, focusing on the nuance, respect, and authenticity required when documenting LGBTQ+ couples.
Authentic Storytelling: Capturing Barb & Marj
Our beautiful couple, Barb and Marj, trusted us with their story, and what a privilege that was. Over three days, we captured their love through multiple intimate scenarios that challenged us as artists while deepening our understanding of authentic queer storytelling.
The Art of Intimacy: The Bath Scene
The bath scene was perhaps our most profound learning experience. There is something incredibly vulnerable and sacred about photographing couples in such an intimate space; it requires absolute trust, clear communication, and a deep respect for boundaries.
We learned that these moments aren’t about chasing the perfect shot – they are about honouring the connection between two people who are allowing you into their most private space. Barb and Marj’s comfort with each other, their gentle touches, and the way they looked at one another showed us that authentic intimacy can’t be directed or posed.
It simply exists, and our job is to witness it with reverence and capture it with care. The steam, the soft light, and the quiet whispers came together to create something deeply personal and universally beautiful.
Creative Inspiration: From Clifftops to Headlights
Beyond the intimate indoor sessions, we ventured to a dramatic clifftop for a windswept beachside elopement shoot. The raw beauty of the Australian coastline became the perfect backdrop for celebrating love that is as wild and free as the ocean itself.
Later, an intimate night scene in front of jeep headlights, complete with rolling fog, created an almost mystical, otherworldly atmosphere. This session proved that love stories can be captured in the most unexpected settings. There is something beautifully rebellious about two people choosing to celebrate their connection under the stars, away from traditional expectations.
To round out the experience, our boudoir session focused on individual empowerment and self-celebration, reminding us that every love story includes the journey of loving yourself first.
What made this retreat such a meaningful experience?
What made this retreat truly special wasn’t just the stunning images created; it was the education, the conversations, and the breaking down of barriers. We focused on building the confidence to serve the LGBTQ+ community with authenticity and respect.
Tara and Kelly didn’t just teach technical skills; They taught us how to create safe spaces, how to communicate with sensitivity, and how to make sure every couple feels seen, celebrated, and authentically represented. They showed that being an ally isn’t just about saying the right words; it’s about creating an environment where love in all its forms can truly flourish.
How has the retreat shaped the way you move forward as photographers?
This retreat has equipped our photographer community with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to better serve LGBTQ+ couples. We are not just taking better photos; we are becoming better allies, better storytellers, and better humans.
Because at the end of the day, love is love, and every story deserves to be captured with the respect, authenticity, and celebration it deserves.
Photography by Elk and Fir Photography
Educators Tara Baker (Dancing With Her) & Kelly Balch (LA)
Retreat Host Venture Folk Retreat
