Documenting Queer Joy: On Being a Proud Scotland Awards Finalist

Hey pals!

So, a wild thing happened recently—I got shortlisted for the Proud Scotland Awards 2025 in the Creative Arts category, and honestly, I’m still somewhere between 'shocked' and 'buzzing'. It feels surreal to have my work recognised in this way, especially for something that feels so deeply personal and joyful to me.

For those who don’t know me: I’m a queer photographer based in Glasgow, and my thing—my why—is capturing queer joy. The kind that bubbles up at drag shows, pride marches and community celebrations. That raw, electric, colourful joy that says we’re here, we’re thriving, and we’re beautiful. That’s the heart of what I do.

A Person-First Lens

My approach to photography is all about people. Seeing them. Their expression. The tiny in-between moments that say something real. It’s about trust, comfort, and creating a space where folks can show up as their fullest selves—glitter and sequins, vulnerability, confidence, messiness and all.

I think being queer has shaped how I see people—how I notice the small, brilliant details that might otherwise be missed. Queer joy is often hard-won, and that gives it this gorgeous, defiant glow that I just have to capture.

Glasgow: My Colourful Canvas

Glasgow is such a huge part of my work—it’s loud, weird, gritty, soft, and absolutely bursting with queer energy. From the arches of the Southside to the cobbles in the West End, there’s always something happening, some tiny riot of colour waiting to be framed. I love playing with light, bold tones, graffiti, and letting my work reflect the messy, radiant, celebratory spirit of this city.

There’s something about documenting queer lives here, in all their complexity and joy, that feels like both art and activism. It’s about saying: we exist, we create, we celebrate, we take up space.

Being Shortlisted

Being recognised by the Proud Scotland Awards honestly means the world. It’s not just about the nomination—it’s about being seen in the community I care about most. It’s about knowing that the stories I try to tell with my camera are resonating. That the joy I capture means something to others too.

The awards ceremony took place last Saturday, and while I didn't take home the award, it meant so much to be nominated and to share space with so many incredible people who are doing so much to uplift LGBTQ+ voices in Scotland. I’m endlessly grateful to everyone who’s stood in front of my lens, trusted me with their story, and helped me build this big, bright, queer tapestry of Glasgow.

This nomination also speaks to the power of queer storytelling - and the beauty, resilience, and joy that so many of you bring in front of the lens. Every portrait, every collaboration, is a shared act of visibility. My work only exists because of the trust you place in me, and I carry that with immense gratitude.

Here’s to more joy, more colour, more community—and hopefully a few more proud moments to come 💜

Catch you soon,

Dan