LGBTQ+ Wedding Photographer Belfast | City Hall & Beyond
Meet the Photographer
Hey, my name is SHABAAN
I’m a wedding photographer based in the Midlands. I’ve photographed LGBTQ+ weddings and elopements across the UK including Matt and Kyle’s same-sex wedding at Belfast City Hall in April 2026.
Kyle got in touch because he wanted photography that looked like their wedding, not a wedding. They walked down the aisle to the Revenge of the Sith soundtrack. They lightsaber-fought with their umbrellas in the Duke of York Alley afterwards. The images reflect exactly who they are.
If you’re looking for an LGBTQ+ wedding photographer in Belfast, you’ve probably noticed that most photographers either have a rainbow page that feels performative, or no LGBTQ+ work visible at all. I don’t need a separate statement to tell you I’m inclusive — the work shows it.
But I know same-sex couples search for this specifically because they’ve been burned before by photographers who said the right things and then made assumptions on the day. That’s not happening here.
What I Understand About Same-Sex Weddings in Belfast
Same-Sex Marriage in Northern Ireland Is Relatively New
Same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland only became legal in 2020. Matt and Kyle got married in 2026 which is six years into something that took far too long to arrive. That context doesn’t need to be the centre of the day, but I understand it’s there. The celebration is the point. The photographs should reflect that.
Belfast City Hall Is a Specific Venue
The City Hall is one of the most architecturally interesting civic wedding venues in the UK. It's vibe is Gothic Revival, from its cathedral glass panes in the ceremony rooms, to a circular mezzanine gap on the second floor looking down to the ground floor, and finally it even has red carpet staircases for elegance. Though it's also a museum which means It’s also busy and on the day of Matt and Kyle’s wedding there were at least six ceremonies. So early arrival is key and important if you want to scope the place. I arrived hours earlier to walk around the empty rooms which we could use.
I Don’t Make Assumptions
I’m not going to assume roles, ask who’s doing what, or bring a default script for how the day runs. I ask, I listen, and I photograph what’s actually there. Matt and Kyle’s wedding looked like Matt and Kyle’s wedding. That’s the only outcome that matters.
I’ll Travel
I’m based in the Midlands and I shot Matt and Kyle’s wedding having flown in the same morning. If Belfast is where your wedding is and you want the right photographer rather than the nearest one, that’s a conversation worth having. Travel is quoted transparently before you book.
The Cathedral Quarter Is Where the Portraits Happen
After the City Hall ceremony we'll go to the Cathedral Quarter (which is a ten-minute walk). It gives us narrow cobbled alleys, brick and timber, and most famously the Duke of York Alley. This one is the standout location.
Though if you don't want to stray too far, we can stick to just the civic hall front yard; Matt and Kyle’s lightsaber fight happened there which turned out great.
Pricing packages
8 hour package
For ceremonies and receptions in one location. Coverage from getting ready through to the evening. Sneak peeks within 72 hours, consultation call, timeline guidance, and ongoing communication throughout planning. Best for couples who want the full story without a 12-hour commitment.
• 300 Edited images via private gallery
• Sneak peeks within 72 hours
• Consultation call
• Timeline guidance
• Ongoing communication
£1550
Pricing packages
12 hours
Full-day coverage from quiet morning moments to the last dances of the evening. Everything included. Sneak peeks within 72 hours, consultation call, timeline guidance, and ongoing communication. Best for couples who want every chapter documented, start to finish.
• 450 Edited images via private gallery
• Sneak peeks within 72 hours
• Consultation call
• Timeline guidance
• Ongoing communication
£1850
What Matt & Kyle Said - ★★★★★
We couldn’t be happier with the incredible work Shabaan did as our wedding photographer, this April. From start to finish, he made us feel completely relaxed and at ease, which really shows in the photos.
We had our photos taken around Belfast city centre, and he captured the atmosphere perfectly — every shot feels natural, vibrant, and full of character. He has a fantastic eye for detail and really knows how to make the most of the surroundings.
The portraits are absolutely stunning, the group shots were organised effortlessly, and the informal moments he captured are some of our favourites. Nothing felt forced or staged — just genuine, beautiful memories of the day.
If you’re looking for a photographer who is professional, friendly, and incredibly talented, we would highly recommend Shabaan.
- Matt & Kyle
What to Expect When You Book
We start with a conversation. Tell me what you’re planning: the venue, the date, the shape of the day. I’ll tell you honestly whether I’m the right fit.
Before the wedding I’ll go through the day with you. For instance if you're getting married at the City Hall then I can most certainly help with logistics. From the ceremony room, the portrait window after the ceremony, whether there’s a reception to factor in. I’ll help the day feel unhurried rather than rushed.
On the day I arrive early. I won't immediately get to directing and posing, but I'll capture the candid moments, these are the ones you’ll care about in ten years. Portraits happen when there’s space for them and directing happens when I need to take over to ensure flow of the day and to capture the stylistic photos you'd want framed and that saw on my page.
Sneak peeks come through quickly. Full gallery within 4–6 weeks standard, up to 8 weeks peak season. I’ll give you a specific timeframe when we book.
FAQ
Have you photographed LGBTQ+ weddings before?
Yes. I’ve photographed same-sex weddings, elopements, and proposals across the UK — including Matt and Kyle’s wedding at Belfast City Hall in April 2026. I also shoot LGBTQ+ weddings in Cardiff and Manchester.
Are you based in Belfast?
I’m based in the Midlands but I travel across the UK for weddings. I flew in for Matt and Kyle’s wedding and I’m happy to do the same for yours. Travel is always quoted upfront before you book.
how long do we wait for our gallery?
Often galleries are delivered within 4-6 weeks, but during peak season it may take up to 8 weeks. This will be clarified during your call.
do we pay for travel
All Travel expenses are included in the booking as well as accommodation. There are no hidden fees.
Planning a Same-Sex Wedding in Belfast?
Let's capture it together.