“REPRESENTATION is not a TREND or a CHECKBOX, but a RESPONSIBILITY to CREATE WORK that FEELS SAFE, HONEST and TRUE to the PEOPLE IN IT”.

Wedding Photographer

¡Hola! I’m Nilka

After 15 years and 300+ weddings on the island of Puerto Rico, I’ve seen it all. But more importantly, I’ve learned how to listen to a wedding day. I’m not the photographer who’s going to bark orders at you or treat your celebration like a staged production. My style is about movement and intuition, knowing when to step into the mix and when to stay quiet in the shadows so you can stay presente.

I am a queer Boricua and that’s the lens I bring to everything I do. I work mostly with small, intentional celebrations and the kind of couples, often LGBTQ+ and BIPOC, who are tired of having to “explain” themselves. You don’t have to translate your story for me; I already see the nuance.

I’m here to be your advocate and your eyes. My goal is for you to look at your photos years from now and think, “That was actually us.” No trends, no scripts, just the honest truth of how it felt to be there.

beyond the camera

A closer look at who I am

Outside weddings, I live a simple, curious life.

I run on strong coffee and matcha. If there is a good café nearby, I will find it. I travel to experience different cultures, escape daily routines and seek personal growth through new challenges. New languages, unfamiliar streets, getting lost in translation. That type of travel resets my brain.

I spend a lot of time outside. I rock climb for fun. I run trails. I cycle long roads. I enjoy being a little uncomfortable in nature. It keeps life honest.

At home, I slow down. I bake sourdough and guard my starter like a family heirloom. I like building things and small construction projects. Measuring, fixing, improving spaces. It calms my mind. I garden too and get overly excited about home grown fruit.

I rescue animals. My house belongs to two dogs and four cats. Caos. Pero good chaos.

I watch horror movies and cult classics on purpose. I’m also a committed foodie. I always order something new on the menu.

That mix of curiosity, patience and observation shapes how I photograph weddings too.

Get to know more about me

PERSONAL NOTES

WHAT BEING A QUEER BRIDE TAUGHT ME ABOUT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

WEDDINGS LATER IN LIFE, WHY AGE REPRESENTATION MATTERS

WHY I PHOTOGRAPH COUPLES THE WEDDING INDUSTRY OVERLOOKS

Written by a human, fueled by cafecito.

Un abrazo,

Testimonials

"Nilka made our entire wedding experience feel seamless from start to finish. She was incredibly professional, organized, and gave us just the right amount of direction to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. She brought our vision to life and delivered photos that were absolutely stunning. We received our gallery quickly, and so many of our guests said she was the best wedding photographer they’ve experienced."

Nilka Gissell Photography wedding client review

Jaqueline & Markus

"We’re a gay couple from the mainland US, and working with Nilka for our wedding in Puerto Rico was an incredible experience. She made us feel completely comfortable and created an atmosphere where we could truly be ourselves, while guiding everything with ease and intention. When we received our photos just two weeks later, every emotion from the day came rushing back, she captured it all beautifully. These images are works of art and we feel so lucky to have them."

Parker & Jose

"Nilka was the very first vendor I booked for my wedding and she went above and beyond from the very beginning. She not only brought my vision to life, but also supported me throughout the process with guidance, check-ins, and trusted recommendations. On the wedding day, she directed everything with ease and captured the most incredible moments. As someone with high standards in the events industry, I can confidently say Nilka delivers on every level."

Ashley & Wilfredo

AS SEEN ON

Featured in publications and platforms that value honest storytelling, intentional design and inclusive celebration.

FAQ

Is there a queer-owned wedding photographer in Puerto Rico?

Yes, I’m Nilka, and I run a queer-owned and Boricua-owned photography studio right here in Puerto Rico. I specialize in documenting intimate weddings and elopements for couples who want to feel seen and safe.

Do you offer inclusive wedding photography for LGBTQ+ couples?

Absolutely. As a queer photographer, inclusivity isn’t a marketing buzzword for me, it’s how I live and work. I provide a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC couples so they can focus on their joy without having to explain or “translate” their stories.

What is your photography style for Puerto Rico elopements?

I use a candid storytelling style. My goal is to capture the honest, unscripted truth of your day. With 15+ years of experience on the island, I’ve learned how to move with the energy of a wedding so you can stay present while I document the real moments.

Where in Puerto Rico do you document weddings?

I’m based in Puerto Rico and travel all over the island, from the shores of Vieques and Culebra to the cliffs of Isabela and the streets of Old San Juan. Whether it’s a local celebration or a destination elopement, I’m there.

Do you work with couples traveling to Puerto Rico for destination weddings?

Definitely. I work with both local Boricua couples and those traveling here for destination celebrations. Because I understand the local landscape and the industry nuances here, I can help bridge the gap for couples who want a wedding that feels authentic to the island without the “tourist” clichés.

What happens if we are awkward in front of the camera?

That is my specialty. My approach is rooted in ease and trust. I don’t use stiff poses or industry scripts; instead, I move with the energy of the day and give you the space to just be yourselves. My goal is for you to forget the camera is even there so I can capture you at your most comfortable.

Do you help with elopement planning or location scouting in Puerto Rico?

Yes. After 15 years of documenting weddings on the island, I act as a local guide for my couples. I help you find those quiet, intentional locations, from hidden beaches to mountain views, that align with your vision and ensure you feel comfortable and away from the crowds.

Why should we book a photographer who specializes in candid storytelling?

Most couples I work with don’t want their wedding to feel like a staged production. Candid storytelling allows you to actually be present in your day. I focus on the real emotions and the “in-between” moments so that when you look at your gallery, you see the truth of how it felt, not just how it looked.

READY TO WORK TOGETHER?

If my work resonates with you, you’re invited to explore, take your time and reach out when it feels right.

Wedding Photographer

¡Hola! I’m Nilka

beyond the camera

A closer look at who I am

Get to know more about me

PERSONAL NOTES

Written by a human, fueled by cafecito.

Testimonials

AS SEEN ON

FAQ

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