Featured Vendor Profile: Danielle Richards Photography

Talk about photojournalism – Danielle Richards has even covered the Super Bowl! I knew we needed to interview her as soon as I learned that she photographed the first civil union in NJ in 2007. Danielle has won numerous awards for her work during her newspaper career, including both a first and second place in the Gordon Parks Competition for Documentary Photography. Enjoy!

Please tell us a little bit about your business.

I’m a photojournalist who honed my skills in the editorial world, shooting assignments ranging from the Super Bowl to long-term documentary projects. That experience has taught me to expect the unexpected, to anticipate reaction, and to be patient. My style is to document the day as a visual storyteller — to capture what you feel. I do blend some traditional portraiture into my coverage.

How did you get into doing what you do?

Throughout my newspaper career, I always had requests to cover weddings. I started doing more of them in the last five years, because my schedule made it easier to work on weekends. I soon realized how much I enjoyed it, as it gave me the opportunity to develop lasting relationships with my clients, something you don’t often find in other professions. I left my senior staff position at the paper in 2008 and took my business full-time.

What do you wear when you’re doing what you do?

I always wear my “lucky” bracelet. ;-)

How is your business “pro-gay”, or how have you changed your business to be gay-friendly?

I’ve always believed everyone should have equal rights, and I conduct my business and personal affairs with that guiding principle. I photographed the first civil union in New Jersey when the law was passed in 2007, and I’ve advertised on sites like this one as well as exhibited my work at the GLBT Expo in New York.

What do you love about what you do?

In a nutshell, I love everything from the first client consultation to designing and delivering their album. Anytime two people pledge their love for each other, it marks the beginning of a new family. I feel honored to be a part of that process as the person responsible for capturing their memories in images.

What do you love about working with gay couples?

I just love working with people who are ready to commit to each other, gay or straight.

Do you have a favorite “moment” that happens while you’re doing your job?

As a photojournalist, I’m all about the moments! The obvious ones are pretty easy to get, but my favorites are the subtle moments — a slight sideways glance at each other, for instance. Their eyes reveal what is in their hearts, and sometimes it is a very fleeting moment.

Picture time!