Photography FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GOT QUESTIONS
about storytelling photography
What is storytelling photography?
Storytelling photography goes beyond documenting what something looks like.
It explores the relationships between people, place and purpose, creating imagery that invites people to feel something rather than simply observe it. Every photograph becomes part of a wider narrative, revealing character, atmosphere and the details that make a story memorable.
What is environmental portrait photography?
Environmental portraiture places people within spaces that are meaningful to them.
Rather than photographing someone against a neutral backdrop, it explores a location within the shoot to reveal something about who they are, what they do or the world they inhabit. The environment becomes an active part of the story, adding context, depth and authenticity to every portrait.
Why choose photography instead of video?
Photography and video tell stories in different ways.
A photograph invites us to pause. It gives us the freedom to spend time with a single moment and discover something new each time we return to it.
Video adds movement, sound and atmosphere. Together they create a powerful combination, but if your story needs to communicate clearly through your website, publications, PR or campaigns, photography often provides the foundation that everything else is built upon.
What makes a great storytelling photograph?
Strong storytelling photography helps people feel connected. Because before anything is chosen, it is felt.
It goes beyond creating a beautiful image to reveal something honest about a person, place or moment. Light, expression, gesture, environment and composition all play a part, but it’s often the quieter details that create the strongest emotional connection.
How do you create authentic photographs?
Authenticity begins long before the camera comes out.
By taking time to understand your story, building trust and creating an environment where people feel comfortable, there’s far less need to perform for the camera. The most meaningful photographs aren’t manufactured; they’re discovered through curiosity, conversation and careful observation.
planning your shoot
I hate having my photograph taken. Can you help?
You’re not alone. It’s probably the most common thing people say before we work together.
My approach isn’t built around asking people to pose. Instead, we begin with conversation, movement and genuine interaction, allowing confidence to grow naturally. The aim isn’t to create a version of yourself for the camera, but photographs that feel recognisably you.
What should I wear?
Choose clothing that feels like you. Rather than following trends, I encourage clients to wear pieces they feel comfortable and confident in. During the planning process, I’ll help you think about colours, textures and how clothing works with your location and the story we’re creating together.
Can you help choose locations?
Absolutely. Location is a vital part of the story.
If you’ve already chosen a location, I’ll help plan how we use it, considering the light, seasons, weather, access and the story we want to tell. If you’re still deciding, I’m happy to offer guidance or recommendations, while more in-depth location research and recce visits are available as a separate service where needed, to support your storytelling photography.
What if I don’t know what photographs I need?
That’s completely normal. Part of my role is helping you work that out. Together we’ll explore where your images will be used, who you’re trying to reach and what story you want them to tell. From there, we can create a photography plan that gives you a purposeful and versatile library of storytelling photography.
Can you photograph individuals and teams?
Yes. Whether you’re photographing a founder, a leadership team or an entire organisation, my approach remains the same: helping people feel comfortable while capturing authentic interactions and genuine moments of connection.
Can you photograph people naturally rather than posing them?
Yes. I’ll always provide gentle guidance where it’s helpful, making sure that people feel comfortable in front of the camera. I create opportunities for movement, conversation and interaction, all spaces where natural expression to emerge. The result is photography that feels relaxed, authentic and recognisably you.
during the shoot
How long does a photography shoot take?
Every project is different. Some commissions can be photographed in a few hours, while others unfold across a full day or over several days. We’ll plan a schedule that gives the story the time and space it needs rather than trying to rush through a shot list.
What is it like to work with you?
Relaxed, collaborative and full of curiosity.
I ask questions, I notice details and there’s usually plenty of conversation and laughter along the way. While every project is carefully planned, I also leave room for spontaneity because some of the strongest photographs are the ones we never expected to make and are captured in the alchemy of the moment.
Can photography happen while we’re working?
Yes. Many of my commissions involve documenting people doing what they naturally do, whether that’s welcoming guests, consulting with clients, working in the field or collaborating with colleagues.
Observational photography often produces the most authentic and engaging imagery because people are focused on their work rather than the camera.
Can you photograph alongside normal business operations?
Yes. I regularly work in busy environments including hospitality venues, visitor attractions, conservation projects and working businesses. Careful planning allows me to document what’s happening while minimising disruption to your team, customers and day-to-day operations.
Can photography and video happen on the same day?
Yes. Many projects combine photography with short-form video, allowing us to tell a richer story while making the most of our time together. Planning both together creates a cohesive visual language and a more versatile library of content for your website, social media and future campaigns.
delivering your images
how many images will i receive?
Every project is different, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The number of photographs depends on the scope of your project and the story we’re creating together.
During our planning call, we’ll discuss how and where you’ll be using the imagery, whether we’re creating photography, video or both, and the scope of the commission.
A photography-only commission will naturally deliver a different collection to a project combining photography and short-form video. We’ll agree the deliverables during the planning stage, ensuring you receive the imagery you need for your website, marketing, campaigns and publications.
How long does editing take?
Most photography commissions are delivered within 7–10 working days, depending on the scope of the project.
If you’re working towards a campaign launch or publication deadline, let me know when you enquire and I’ll always do my best to accommodate your timescales where possible.
Will the images be ready for social media and my website?
Yes. Your final gallery includes professionally edited, high-resolution images alongside web-ready versions that are optimised for online use, making it easy to use your photography across your website, social media, marketing and PR.
Can you optimise images for web use?
Absolutely. Images are exported in formats and sizes appropriate for both print and digital use, helping your website load efficiently while maintaining excellent image quality.
Can you add metadata to images for SEO?
Yes. If you’d like, I can add descriptive metadata to your exported images, including titles, captions and keywords that align with your brand and search terms. While image metadata is only one part of a wider SEO strategy, it can help improve organisation, accessibility and search visibility as part of a well-optimised website.