My story …
I have been connected to photography for as long as I can remember. Throughout my childhood I was often found with my Kodak camera documenting my family, friends and life on the farm. Looking back now I realise that these traits most likely stem from my dear Dad. He loved nothing more than to gather family and friends for an evening of entertainment with his old projector and boxes of slides.
At college I was introduced to an SLR camera and the world of the darkroom s part of my studies in journalism. I remember still the magic of watching my first print slowly emerge in the tray of chemistry. That was the moment I was hooked.
During my twenties I worked with a few advertising photographers, running studios and as an agent, all the time learning about the industry. Little did I realise at the time how valuable this training would be later in my own journey.
A family move to America provided me with an opportunity to study photography and learn what goes on behind the lens. I enrolled in numerous classes, joined community darkrooms, attended talks and worked with mentors. By the time I arrived back in the UK, almost ten years later, I was ready to set up my own studio and work as a full time, professional photographer.
“Photography is an art of observation. It has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them.”
Elliott Erwitt
For the last twenty I have captured large events for global corporations, private intimate weddings for couples, and everything in between. I have been lucky enough to work with some amazing people during my photographic career. Above all it has been a joy and privilege to document so many special moments for my clients.
Recently I have found myself at a crossroads on my photography journey. No longer able to physically engage in the demands of large events and long wedding days, I have had to look inward. I am passionate about the medium of photography, I use it to express emotion, it is my voice. Over the last few years I have used it to connect more deeply with nature and the world around me. My approach to my work has slowed, my personal photography work has become mindful mediation.
Connecting with Nature
My imagery has evolved and developed as I find this deeper connection with the beauty of nature. I find myself invested in this emotional connection to a point where I want this to now be my main focus. I feel a calm, stillness within me when I capture my macro images of flowers. there is a sense of wonder as I look through my lens at the delicate details, the spectrum of colour and tone and the variety of form that each flower takes on.
When I create a photograph using ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) I feel the sense of magical power and mystery as the sway of my body blends colour and tone, background and foreground, texture and form. Each mindful movement creating an abstract representation.
Presently my photographic work provides me with balance and purpose. Slowing down the pace, looking more closely and finding a connection has provided me with the clarity I was seeking. Sharing my work with you, the viewer, is what gives me joy and gratification.