In 1976, Sue Fortier and her wife Janet opened up a dance studio in Brooklyn, NY. During classes and recitals, Fortier would take photos of the dancers. Being behind the camera was always her dream. When they moved to New Jersey in 1995, they combined their passions and opened a shared dance and photography studio.
“We vacationed in Rehoboth for several years and decided it was a good place to settle down as we approach retirement,” explains Fortier. “I continued my photo business in New Jersey and transitioned to a photo studio in Delaware and established Fortier Photography.”
Now, Fortier can be found taking photos or setting up her photo booth at local events, like WomensFEST. Fortier Photography also specializes in wedding and real estate photos, as well as professional headshots. Her studio—now located in Georgetown, DE—has become a space for photography, dance, and community.
“We lived our life deep in the closet and have only in recent years discovered we are not the only lesbians in the world. Our very small circle of friends has grown into a world of opportunity and happiness,” says Fortier.
Who inspired you to do photography?
I had an Uncle John who was a photographer by hobby and it really interested me. Freezing action, stopping motion, and grabbing the shot always intrigued me.
What is your favorite thing about being a photographer?
Creating memories for people to have forever. Capturing “a moment in time”, which was the name of my photo studio in Middletown, NJ.
If you could shoot anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Trump…Oh, sorry, you meant with my camera. I would love to photograph a child who has never seen a printed photograph of themselves. It would be a gift to them and their family. Everyone snaps so many photos with their cell and digital cameras and never do anything with them. Everything is stored on a cloud and could just disappear at the push of a button.
What do you love about living in Delaware?
The pace is slower and much more laid back. The low real estate tax was one of my first attractions to living here full-time.
You’ve found a great synergy with your wife. How do you balance work life and home life?
Balancing our home and work life, which we have shared for forever, is not always easy. It is something we both have had a lot of fun doing. We love what we do.
What can people expect when they work with you?
One of the most common compliments that I get is, “That was fun. You made our day with gentle direction and encouragement.” I get to go to a wedding every weekend, sometimes more than one. How much fun is that? Some more fun that others, but that’s what keeps it exciting. It’s a whole new crew to work with on every job.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Doing exactly what I’m doing now, only better! I am always up for a challenge and learning something new about my love of pictures.
Anything else you want our readers to know?
Print your pictures. They tell the story that we may need to be reminded of some day.
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