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In this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson is joined by Dr Denise Maxwell, a trailblazing multi-genre photographer and the creative force behind Lensi Photography. Known for her versatility, Denise has photographed everyone from Barack Obama to Usain Bolt and covered iconic events like the BAFTAs and the Commonwealth Games. Her career spans sports, fashion, journalism, and event photography, showcasing her ability to adapt and excel across genres.
Denise shares her journey from working in public health to becoming a professional photographer after redundancy from the NHS. With a lifelong passion for capturing moments, she moved into photography by combining practice, determination and a commitment to learning. In this episode, Denise highlights the importance of transferable skills, explaining how techniques honed in one genre, such as sports photography, can elevate her work in others, like weddings or corporate events.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into how Denise balances a thriving career with personal projects that fuel her creativity. From her celebrated redhead project, which garnered wide recognition, to her ongoing work on themes like breastfeeding and menstruation, Denise demonstrates how personal photography can lead to professional opportunities. She passionately discusses the need for photographers to continue learning, experimenting, and pushing their creative boundaries to stay fresh and inspired.
This episode is packed with practical advice for photographers at all stages of their journey. Denise encourages aspiring photographers to practise relentlessly, master their gear and embrace the challenges of stepping outside their comfort zones. She also offers a candid glimpse into her approach to goal-setting and maintaining work-life balance.
Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting out, Denise’s wisdom and enthusiasm for her craft will leave you inspired. 

Takeaways

• Capture moments that will matter in the future.
• Setting goals is crucial for growth.
• Building a client base starts with your immediate network.
• Personal projects can keep the passion alive and lead to commercial work.
• Multi-genre photography keeps the work exciting.
• Transferable skills enhance your photography.
• Practice is essential for photographers to succeed.
• Emerging photographers should know their equipment inside out.
• There are many genres of photography beyond weddings and portraits.
• Continuous learning and practice are vital in photography.

Connect with Denise
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Thank you to CEWE, Europe’s leading photo printing company, for supporting this podcast. CEWE offers an extensive range of high-quality photo products, including the award-winning CEWE PHOTOBOOK.
This festive season, why not surprise your loved ones with a truly unique gift? A CEWE PHOTOBOOK celebrates unforgettable moments, from cherished family gatherings to spontaneous snapshots and epic holidays. Give the gift of memories, beautifully presented – something personal that they’ll treasure forever.

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