We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Valentina Tillero. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Valentina below.

Hi Valentina, thanks for joining us today. Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?

As a wedding photographer and someone who’s part of the LGBTQIA+ community, inclusivity isn’t just a business value—it’s something that personally hits really close to home.

I’ve been in situations, especially earlier in my career, where I felt like I had to tone down parts of who I am to “fit in” with the wedding industry vibe. It made me feel less “authentic” not only to myself, but to my brand; so now, I make it a point to be the kind of photographer I wish I’d had when I was planning anything special, and truly make it a point to connect with every couple. Someone who sees you, respects you, and makes space for you exactly as you are.

I think being inclusive in this space really comes down to intentional choices—like asking for pronouns, using inclusive language in contracts, and making sure my second shooters are aligned with those values too. It’s not just about saying “everyone’s welcome”—it’s about showing it in every part of the experience.

I also know how powerful it is to see people like you represented in wedding imagery. For queer couples, or anyone who hasn’t seen themselves in the typical “Pinterest wedding” mold, having their love documented authentically can be super validating. That’s why I care so much about showcasing all kinds of love stories.

At the end of the day, love is love—but how we hold space for it really matters.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Valentina—I’m a Florida-based wedding and portrait photographer and the face behind Valentina Rose Photography. I specialize in weddings, elopements, engagements, and portraits. Basically, I get to spend my time capturing people in love, which is honestly the best job ever.
I got into photography because I’ve always been obsessed with memories— I was the kid with disposable cameras at every family gathering. But over time, it became more than a hobby. I realized how powerful it is to document love in a way that feels real, emotional, and true to the people in front of the camera.

Something I believe sets me apart from other photographers is that, it is all about comfort and connection. I know being in front of a camera can feel super awkward (been there!), so I focus on creating a really chill vibe. I use prompts instead of poses so my couples can just be themselves and enjoy the moment. No stiff smiles or weird angles—just you, your person, and all the love.

Also, I’m really proud to bring inclusivity front and center in everything I do. As a Latina and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, it’s incredibly important to me that every couple feels seen, celebrated, and safe. I work with a network of inclusive vendors, and I make sure every step of the experience is welcoming—whether that’s using the right pronouns, offering inclusive contracts, or just making sure folks feel like they can be 100% themselves.

The “thing” I’m most proud of in my business is honestly, the relationships I build with my clients. A lot of them stay in touch long after the wedding, and I get to photograph their milestones as they grow—like anniversaries, babies, or even just “we felt cute” sessions. That trust means everything to me.

If you’re looking to hire me to document your moments or love stories there’s one thing you should know, I’m not just your photographer—I’m your hype woman, timeline keeper, emergency hair-fixer, dress-bustler, and overall day-of bestie. I’m in your corner the whole way, making sure the day runs smoothly and you feel amazing. I really care about the people I work with, and I want their experience to be just as beautiful as the photos they walk away with.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

At the heart of everything I do, my mission is to create a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all couples. That’s not just a tagline for me—it’s something I live by in every part of my work.

Being a wedding photographer means being invited into one of the most personal, emotional, and important days of someone’s life. And I take that really seriously. I think if you’re in any kind of public-facing role—especially one where you’re working so closely with people—it’s your responsibility to serve everyone with respect and care. I always say, if you’re serving the public, you serve all of the public. That includes all races, all gender identities, all sexual orientations, all body types, all love stories.

And honestly, part of why I care so much about this is because I’ve been on the other side. I know what it feels like to wonder if a vendor will be accepting, or if you’ll have to hide parts of who you are just to feel safe or comfortable. That’s a feeling I never want any of my clients to experience. So, I’ve built my business intentionally—everything from my language in emails and contracts to the vendors I recommend is done with inclusivity in mind.

It’s also why I make such a big deal about making sessions fun and relaxed. I want my couples to be able to show up exactly as they are—with all the joy, nerves, silliness, or mushy affection—and know that they’re going to be met with nothing but love and excitement from me. That’s when the magic really happens—when people feel safe enough to be fully themselves so, yeah, that’s my why. Documenting love is the best part of my job—but creating a space where people feel seen and celebrated? That’s what really drives me.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I had realized sooner how open and generous the wedding photography community can be—if you’re willing to reach out and ask. When I first started, I kind of had this idea that I had to figure everything out on my own, like it was a competition. But that mindset really doesn’t get you far, and honestly, it’s super isolating.

One of the most valuable “resources,” if you want to call it that, has been community—other photographers, planners, vendors—just people in the industry who are down to share their experiences, give advice, or just be a sounding board when you need one. Some of the best learning moments I’ve had came from just asking questions, reaching out for feedback, or shadowing people I admired.

So I always tell newer photographers: don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to DM that person you look up to or ask someone how they pulled off that lighting setup or edit. The right people will never gatekeep. A good photographer understands that community over competition isn’t just a cute phrase—it’s how you grow, how you stay inspired, and how we all get better at what we do. Mentorship, community, even just casual conversations with other creatives—those are all resources I underestimated at first. And now I honestly think they’re some of the most valuable tools you can have

Contact Info:

• Website: https://valentinarosephotography.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/valentinarosephoto
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/valentinarosephoto
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/valentinarosephoto

Image Credits

Valentina Rose Photography | @valentinarosephotography | valentinarosephotography.com