Capturing Motherhood

Today I am joined by Rebecca Carpenter, a wedding photographer based in Kent who travels all over the world to take pictures of people in love. 5 weeks ago, Rebecca gave birth to a baby girl. She is here to talk about her experiences running a business whilst pregnant and as a new mother.

Rebecca's newborn baby Winter, also known as Winnie, was born in a little bit of a whirlwind. Unbeknownst to Rebecca, while she was giving birth, she had COVID.

On her due date her husband received a positive COVID test result, meaning he couldn't be with her if she went into labour. Ten days later, while in labour, Rebecca received the news that she had also tested positive.

It wasn't just her labour that was difficult. The journey to conceiving was also a rocky one and Rebecca still had to show up whilst running her business. It was one of the hardest things she has ever had to go through as a woman. Whilst trying to conceive she found out she had polycystic ovary syndrome and every step with their fertility treatment was taking forever. Eventually it took its toll on Rebecca and she had to step away from doing maternity sessions.

One of the most difficult steps Rebecca took was sharing with her community that she wouldn't be doing maternity sessions for a while. When she did put it out there and explained that it was because she was going through her own infertility struggles, the outpouring of support she received was overwhelming. If you are going through your own struggles, lean on your community and remember that you are not alone.

Find out more about Rebecca:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccacarpenterphotography/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChArOxwWKWwRXa0GHyZhe0w

Connect with Suzi:

Website: https://www.suzibirdeducation.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzibirdphoto/?hl=en

Suzi's Photography Studio: https://sunlightportraitstudio.co.uk/

In this episode I am joined by Sarah Kate, a fellow UK-based motherhood photographer. She is here to discuss going through a major rebrand of her business and creating meaning in branding.

Sarah has recently renamed her business from Wiggly Piglet Photography to Sarah Kate London. The meaning of things is very important to Sarah, and the name Wiggly Piglet came from the nickname for her Godson. At that time, her focus for photography was specifically on newborns and the name just clicked.

A few years ago, Sarah began to become aware that her work was beginning to take a different direction than she expected. When she got her first studio in 2019, the blank canvas of a new space helped her creativity bloom and shift. This was where the seed for re-branding her business was planted. Just like Sarah, I also felt this shift as my career and business have grown. Getting your face out there is how you build client relationships and build trust.

The name change came about when, after a brainstorming session, Sarah realized that it just had to be her. Both her maiden and married names seemed too bunt and informal, but using her first and middle names, Sarah Kate, was so much softer and warmer to her. It felt right. Her work was growing up and her focus was moving towards a more sensual feel. Wiggly Piglet just didn't work anymore.

When you are building your business and your brand, it's important to understand and align with your values. It's also vital to know your why. What is your purpose?

Find out more about Sarah:

Website: http://www.sarahkate.london/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahkate_london/

Connect with Suzi:

Website: https://www.suzibirdeducation.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzibirdphoto/?hl=en

Suzi's Photography Studio: https://sunlightportraitstudio.co.uk/

In the first episode of Capturing Motherhood, host Suzi Bird takes us through her story, the intent of what this podcast will bring, and what she hopes you will gain from listening.

Based in Bristol in the UK, Suzi is a motherhood photographer who encompasses the journey of motherhood from maternity, to newborn, to the first year.

Suzi started her photography journey 6 years ago. 3 years ago, she was able to take her passion full-time, which led to her being able to open her own studio 2 years ago. In the beginning, Suzi studied photography for fashion, advertising, and dance at university. With her location unable to provide access to dance subjects, Suzi focused in on her niche and began photographing newborns.

Once she started motherhood photography, she realized how much she loved it and how much it aligned with her own personal values. With the pandemic shutting down events and athletics, it made sense to make the change while still keeping dance photography as a passion.

Going from a makeshift studio in her kitchen to having her own full studio has been a liberating experience. Starting your own business is a freeing and fulfilling investment, but it does take time and work. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and make opportunities for yourself.

Now, Suzi wants to help others learn the basics of beginning a creative business through this show and her many experiences. The show will also speak to mothers about their journey through motherhood. It's important to create connections and community, and hopefully this show can be a friend in your pocket to lift you up when you need it most.

Connect with Suzi:

Website: https://www.suzibirdeducation.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzibirdphoto/?hl=en

Suzi's Photography Studio: https://sunlightportraitstudio.co.uk/