Aussie photographer busted for posting fake DM from Taylor Swift ahead of her wedding to Travis Kelce… and it could land her in serious trouble

As a hopelessly devoted fan and aspiring photographer, I can hardly contain my excitement when I receive that coveted message from the globally renowned pop sensation, inquiring about my talent for her upcoming event. It’s truly a dream come true!

However, when a Gold Coast wedding photographer claimed with enthusiasm that Taylor Swift had privately messaged her the previous month, skepticism rose among fans.

Zoë Iliff, an expert in elopement and destination wedding photography, sparked curiosity when she shared a supposed message from Taylor Swift, just two days following the singer’s announcement of her engagement with Travis Kelce.

Hi Zoe, I recently came across your portfolio, and Travis and I are really impressed with your work! Given that you’re a local Australian entrepreneur, we believe you could be an ideal fit for our wedding photography.

We really enjoy the editorial feel along with the stunning cliff-top scenery you’re capturing. Could you kindly share your preferred contact methods and details about your wedding photography packages? Looking forward to connecting with you!

While at first glance the post may seem legitimate, a closer look reveals one big red flag.

The screenshot demonstrates that Swift has liked Iliff’s Instagram page, although they don’t subscribe or follow anyone on the app.

Although Iliff humorously pretended to be surprised in her caption, it clearly showed her astonishment at supposedly receiving a message from the world’s most popular soon-to-be-bride.

When you learn that numerous top-tier photographers are messaging Taylor Swift about her wedding, it feels natural to think she might pick one of them,” she exclaimed enthusiastically.

‘And amidst all the photography scene, I’m a relatively fresh face hailing from the Gold Coast, with minimal online presence. Yet, surprisingly, she managed to discover me and my work hidden behind the lens.’

She asked if I could be her wedding photographer, which I find hard to believe, but it did happen,” she remarked in disbelief.

Some followers were fooled, with several congratulating her in the comments section.

‘Incredible!’ one user wrote, prompting Iliff to reply: ‘Never in my wildest dreams!’ 

Wow, that’s surprising! Let me fill you in on what’s been going on!” (Iliff replied)

The first user exclaimed, “What the actual f!!! That is epic babe!!!!!”, and Iliff responded by saying, “That is absolutely astonishing!!” or “I can hardly believe it!”.

Indeed, plenty of other users couldn’t believe it.

Alas, I must disappoint you, but it seems she doesn’t follow anyone,” one commented, while another humorously stated: “Let’s discuss the topic ‘events that never occurred,’ for 500 points, Alex!

The fact-check reveals that TS is not among your followers. It would be interesting if that were true, but unfortunately, it’s not. Another user simply labeled it as ‘misinformation.’

In recent times, there’s been an increasing trend on social platforms where people share fabricated direct messages allegedly from famous personalities. This practice is frequently employed by companies aiming to generate more online buzz.

However, doing so could land you in big trouble. 

Engaging in deception by sharing a falsified direct message claiming a celebrity is endorsing your business in Australia may lead to repercussions under the Australian Consumer Law, potential defamation lawsuits, legal action taken by the celebrity, and possible suspensions from online platforms.

Even if intended as ‘a joke,’ regulators and celebrities’ lawyers may not see it that way. 

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but note that Swift is known for being fiercely protective when it comes to her trademark, persona, and creative works. She leaves no stone unturned in safeguarding her brand’s integrity.

As a devoted follower, I’m proud to say that when it comes to matters of trademark infringement, defamatory statements, impersonation, or misrepresentation, I stand alongside my legal team in taking proactive measures – whether that means pursuing legal action or issuing warnings. We believe in upholding the integrity and authenticity of our brand and reputation.

2020 saw Swift’s team openly criticize a string of fraudulent Facebook advertisements peddling keto diet pills and investment opportunities, which fabricated images suggesting Swift’s endorsement of these products.

Although she chose not to file a lawsuit, her team openly criticized the fraudulent schemes, urging fans to be cautious and only believe product endorsements from her if they received an official confirmation.

The singer behind the hit “The Cruel Summer” has additionally registered numerous trademarks (such as Swifties and This Sick Beat), and she is known for vigilantly enforcing against unauthorized usage.

Companies found using her name, image, or false endorsements in advertising campaigns have been issued cease-and-desist notices.

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2025-09-10 03:18