Our primary platform is Instagram, where you can be caught up to date on all our latest portraiture, events, and announcements @_queerlyme.
-Why "Queerly"?
While we welcome all LGBTQ+ people to participate in our photo documentary, directory and events, Queerly ME focuses on creating spaces online and offline where the acknowledgement, acceptance, and support of Queer identity and Queer people is explicit and intentional. Queerness creates space for individuals to grow into their unique identity and sense of self within the LGBTQ+ community without the need to adhere to a more binary label which may not be as accurate to who one is. Queerness for many emphasizes the fluidity of gender identity and sexuality.
PHOTOGRAPHY
- How do I get photographed by Queerly ME?
There is no selection process for our portrait documentary! The only requirements are that the subject lives in Maine and identified as Queer or LGBT+. Reach out via email at queerlymaine@gmail.com or via Instagram @_queerlyme
- What is the photoshoot process?
The photographer will come to your residence or meet in an agreed upon location. Currently photoshoot locations span from York to Augusta, and the majority of our shoots are in the Greater Portland area. We book shoots back to back, meaning that timing and shoot date will depend on the availability of many including the photographer who volunteers their time; we try our best to be flexible in timing and date for your shoot!
Each shoot takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes. The photographer will chat with you as they take your photo, no posing or specific outfitting needed. Show up as you are most comfortable and authentically you. After the shoot, you will be asked to write your own caption to couple with your photos; there is no prompt, you are encouraged to share whatever you would like to with the project's community following. After posting, your photos will be sent to you, which you are free to use with credit to Queerly ME.
By agreeing to a shoot, you agree to Queerly ME's ownership of the photos taken. These photos may be archived, used for advertisement, or sampled for public presentations. If you are uncomfortable with this prospect, please inform us ahead of time so that we can come to an alternative agreement that can best meet you at your comfort level.
DIRECTORY
- How do I get added to the directory?
To be added to the directory, you must first book a shoot with Queerly ME so that your photo can be taken and added to the relevant category.
- What type of categories does the directory have?
The current directory categories are business, healthcare, education, politics, artists and creators, performers, and nature exploration events. All of those features are LGBTQ+ themselves. If you do not see a category you are looking for, please reach out for resource recommendations or suggest the category you would like to see added to Queerly ME.
NATURE EXPLORATION
- What are Queerly ME's Nature Exploration Events?
Queerly ME plans regular LGBTQ+ weekend camping retreats across Maine from Spring into Fall. We also partner with various organizations to put on outdoor events such as winter walks, foraging, and other community building activities in nature.
-How do I sign up for Queerly camping retreats?
We announce all of our upcoming trips on our Instagram and Facebook pages. A registration link will be provided after an initial survey is filled out with one's basic information. The survey helps us to plan the best camping trip for each formed group, taking into consideration comfortability levels and individual preferences.
Currently there is a 21+ age limit on these retreats. Proof of vaccination is required.
-What do the camping retreats look like?
The intention of these retreats is for community members to meet new folks and strengthen connections within the community. There are no strict structures or schedules for the trip; campers are encouraged to explore and interact with others at their leisure, though games and basic amenities will be provided for group use. Check out the directory category "Camping & Nature Exploration" to see photos from some of our previous camping trips!
-How do I sign up for Nature Exploration events?
We announce all of our upcoming events on our Instagram and Facebook pages. Registration will depend on the organizations we collaborate with, but information on how to sign up and get involved will always be provided in our announcements.