Three lessons from a brand photographer

As we approach the culmination of 2023, I wanted to share a few reflections with you.

I believe that life’s true beauty and authenticity lie within the lessons we gather along the way. So with this in mind, I’d like to unveil the three invaluable lessons this year has taught me. It’s through these lessons that we can craft a richer and more genuine existence.

Lesson 1: The more you give, the more you receive

In 2023, I’ve steadfastly embraced my life’s purpose: capturing the mesmerising narratives of our magnificent planet and the vast universe that surrounds us. This unwavering commitment has brought opportunities to engage in truly meaningful work.

• Island adventures around our isles: snorkelling with seals & puffins off Skomer Island, to the most remote island of St Kilda and to the biggest gannet colony at Bass Rock
• Shooting with epic branding clients across the UK and Europe: London, Glastonbury, Yorkshire, East Midlands & East of England, Scotland, Wales and Italy….
• Hosting The Gathering – seeing 10 souls gather in circle meets brand shoot – an idea I’d had for so long 
• Undertaking a travel and nature photography brief around Devon and Cornwall
• Capturing the aurora from my house in Ramsgate for the first time!
• Having my work published in books, newspapers and magazines, it is always amazing to see things in print! 

Every year, I dedicate my time pro bono to support marine charities and organisations. In 2023, I took immense pride in assisting Rise Up Residency, BDMLR, and Marine Conservation Society. Plus, through my creative endeavours, I contribute to environmental preservation by planting trees and sea grass, as well as donating a portion of my Print Shop’s profits. These images, curated from nature’s breathtaking moments across the globe, are printed at the UK’s pioneering carbon-negative lab. 10% of the profits are channelled to The Marine Conservation Society.

This year, I’ve devoted over 10 hours and donated £4380.25 to causes dear to my heart. In return, I’ve been graced with extraordinary opportunities, reinforcing my belief that authenticity in pursuing our mission and vision attracts the most remarkable of blessings. Love, I encourage you to do the same.

Lesson 2: When you stand in your purpose and show up just as you are, magick happens. 

At the age of 37, I received a late diagnosis of ADHD. This transformed my perception of myself and my place in the world. Suddenly, everything fell into place, offering me a fresh perspective on myself, the world and my role within it.

Now, at 39, this newfound empowerment and living authentically has opened doors to understanding cyclical living and the notion that our work is an integral part of this profound journey.

When we stand unapologetically in our purpose, rooted in our inherent worthiness and show up as our true selves, magick unfolds. 

The more of us who embrace this path, the more we create space for others to do the same.

Lesson 3: The power of seeking support

Earlier this year, my awareness of my ADHD prompted me to seek assistance to bolster both myself and my business in areas where I faced challenges. I enlisted the support of Molly Hollinsworth, who has been instrumental in organising my business, refining systems and streamlining client workflows. They’ve become invaluable members of my team.

In March, I also began working with Stories From Home to help me with my creative strategy and content creation. Every month, they transform the swirling stories, thoughts, and experiences in my mind into not only beautiful but purpose and vision-aligned content. They are word angels.

By seeking support and entrusting these areas of my business to capable hands, I’ve created the bandwidth to focus on other essential aspects. All without getting timeblind and distracted by things I’ve found difficult because of my ADHD. Most of all, I’m held accountable to show up here in your inbox without fail every week. 

The results have been remarkable! Opportunities have been flowing in through authentically crafted content and clients discovering me via Google thanks to insightful blog articles. It has blown me away. 

I’m eager to hear what 2023 has taught you. Please comment below and share your own lessons, I’d love to know.

In the meantime, if you’d like to embark on a journey of magick-making with me in 2024, click here to join my waitlist and I’ll be in touch in early January.