As a gay Latino man, finding acceptance wasn’t always easy. But in 2017, I truly understood my purpose. A lesbian couple reached out to me after being turned away by 12 other photographers due to religious beliefs. When they shared they were part of the LGBTQ+ community, I proudly said, “I am too, and I’d be honored to do this for you.” Their joy at finding someone who embraced their identity was unforgettable.

Getting to this point in my career hasn’t been easy. Navigating both personal and professional challenges as an openly gay man in the South and now in the San Francisco Bay Area has fueled my determination to succeed. With our community under immense stress given everything happening in the world, I realize more than ever how vital it is to make a mark. I’m proud to stand as the first openly gay wedding photographer in San Francisco, creating a space where love in all its forms is celebrated unapologetically.

For over 10 years, I’ve captured moments of joy and tradition as Quince y Era Photography and Film, working closely with the Latino community. Now, as a Gay Wedding Photographer in San Francisco, I’ve expanded my mission to celebrate love in every form.

Photography, for me, is more than just capturing images—it’s about honoring resilience, authenticity, and love in every frame. My goal is to create a space where people feel seen, celebrated, and free to live their truth.

-Hector Pacheco