Getty Images, a world leader in visual communications, and GLAAD have announced the launch of the LGBTQ+ Guidebook, as part of their ongoing partnership. These new guidelines aim to support brands and businesses as they endeavour to be more inclusive in their visual choices.

Jacqueline Bourke, head of creative insights for EMEA at Getty Images and iStock, says, “While we know that increased representation positively impacts increased acceptance, our research has also shown that LGBTQ+ individuals remain grossly underrepresented in media.”

GLAAD collaborated with Procter & Gamble earlier this month to launch the ‘Visibility Project’ dedicated to growing the quality, quantity and diversity of LGBTQ+ images in advertising. P&G and GLAAD conducted research which found that 81% of advertisers agreed that an inauthentic execution of LGBTQ+ people would lead to larger backlash that no inclusion at all.

Together GLAAD and Getty Images have launched its latest initiative, a guidebook to support brands and businesses as they endeavour to be more inclusive in their visual choices. The ‘LGBTQ+ Guidebook for Inclusive Visual Storytelling’ will give brands and businesses practical tips to confidently make more visually inclusive comms campaigns.

Nick Adams, director of Transgender Representation at GLAAD, says, “The guidance we’ve created with Getty Images seeks to give brands and businesses of all sizes the confidence they need to depict the LGBTQ+ community in inclusive, authentic and thoughtful ways, without fear of backlash or fear of getting it wrong”

“Increasing representation of LGBTQ+ people in your communications demonstrates your intentional emphasis around diversity and makes a public commitment of your support for this community,” adds Adams