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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson chats with Alex Wilkinson, one of the directors of Wilkinson Cameras – a respected UK retailer with stores across the northwest of England and a thriving online presence.

Although she grew up surrounded by cameras and the photographic trade, Alex didn’t initially plan to join the family business. Her early career was in hospitality, but when her dad encouraged her to come on board, she discovered a real passion for photography, and a flair for marketing and e-commerce. More than a decade later, she plays a key role in shaping the direction of the company, while also appearing in Wilkinson Cameras’ YouTube reviews alongside her colleague Olivia.

Alex shares her unique perspective on the ever-changing world of camera retail, including how Wilkinson Cameras has adapted to shifts in technology, customer behaviour and content creation. She talks about the importance of honest, personalised advice, whether that’s in-store or via the website, and explains why high street camera shops are still a valuable part of the photography community.

Angela and Alex also chat about some of the most popular cameras right now (spoiler: it’s not what you might expect), how they handle rapid review turnarounds, and the growing demand for hybrid cameras and video features. Alex gives insight into what photographers should consider before making a big kit purchase and highlights the benefits of buying from a trusted UK retailer.

It’s an insightful, warm and informative conversation that will resonate with photographers, content creators and anyone interested in the gear side of the industry.  

Listen now and discover how Alex and the Wilkinson Cameras team are helping photographers make confident, informed choices.

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson chats with Sue Flood, an acclaimed photographer, filmmaker and zoologist with a deep love for wildlife and adventure. Sue’s journey has taken her from growing up in North Wales to working with the BBC’s Natural History Unit on iconic documentaries like The Blue Planet and Planet Earth, collaborating with Sir David Attenborough. Her determination, patience and passion have led her to capture breathtaking images of wildlife in some of the world’s most extreme locations.

Sue shares the challenges she faced in breaking into the industry, including the persistence it took to land her dream job with the BBC after years of knocking on doors. She talks about her early inspirations, how she gained experience and the turning points that helped shape her career. From swimming with humpback whales in Tonga to photographing emperor penguins in Antarctica, her stories offer a fascinating insight into life as a wildlife photographer and filmmaker.

Throughout our conversation, Sue also discusses the ethics of wildlife photography, the importance of conservation and how photographers can approach animals without disturbing them. She offers invaluable advice for those looking to work in wildlife filmmaking or photography, emphasising the power of perseverance and seizing opportunities when they arise.

Whether you're an aspiring wildlife photographer, a fan of nature documentaries, or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from the field, this episode is packed with inspiration. Tune in to hear how Sue turned her childhood dream into a reality, proving that with passion and persistence, anything is possible.

Takeaways

1. Persistence is key in breaking into any competitive industry – keep pushing forward despite setbacks.
2. Gaining hands-on experience, whether through volunteering or personal projects, is invaluable for building skills and credibility.
3. Ethical wildlife photography requires patience, respect for nature and an understanding of animal behaviour.
4. Building strong professional relationships and networking can open unexpected doors and lead to new opportunities.
5. Preparation and adaptability are essential when working in challenging environments, from extreme cold to remote locations.
6. Entering photography competitions can be a great way to gain recognition, confidence and exposure for your work.

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with Erica Hawkins, a multi-award-winning documentary wedding photographer whose work has been exhibited at prestigious venues such as the National Portrait Gallery for the Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize. Erica's journey into photography was anything but straightforward, and her story is as inspiring as her creative approach to storytelling. 

From her early passion for filmmaking to her unexpected pivot into photography, Erica shares how a career in art publishing helped shape her unique vision. Despite achieving notable successes, including being featured on Don't Tell the Bride early in her career, Erica struggled with imposter syndrome, battling a persistent inner critic that made her doubt her talents. 

The turning point came in 2020 when Erica faced a life-altering cancer diagnosis. This experience gave her a fresh perspective, allowing her to quieten the negativity and embrace her creativity with renewed confidence. Now, Erica combines her documentary approach with a deep understanding of her client's stories to create authentic, emotive images. 

In this heartfelt conversation, Erica discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome and how it impacts photographers, offering actionable advice to help others recognise the difference between healthy self-reflection and destructive self-doubt. She also shares insights into her work-life balance, emphasising the importance of setting goals, staying true to your style, and finding joy in photography. 

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding photographer, Erica's experiences and wisdom will inspire you to overcome self-doubt, embrace your creativit, and craft a photography career or hobby that reflects your unique vision. 

Listen now to discover Erica's incredible story and learn how to silence your inner critic while growing as a photographer.

Takeaways

1. Recognising and addressing imposter syndrome is key to unlocking your full creative potential. Learn to differentiate between self-reflection that helps you grow and self-doubt that holds you back.

2. Life challenges can be opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embracing a new perspective can lead to greater creativity and confidence in your work.

3. Authentic storytelling in photography resonates deeply. Focus on capturing genuine moments rather than striving for technical perfection.

4. Confidence builds over time through experience and reflection. Setting achievable goals and celebrating milestones can help reinforce self-belief.

5. Balancing work and personal life is crucial for long-term success. Define success on your terms and don’t let external pressures dictate your priorities.

6. Connecting with a supportive community can provide encouragement and inspiration. Sharing experiences and learning from others helps foster both personal and professional growth.

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson welcomes Hannah Couzens, a renowned portrait photographer and Sony Imaging Ambassador. With years of experience behind the camera, Hannah has built a reputation for her expertise in lighting, her engaging teaching approach and her ability to bring out the best in her subjects. Her philosophy, "Come as strangers and leave as friends," perfectly encapsulates her warm and inviting style.

Hannah’s journey into photography began in her teenage years when a friend introduced her to the magic of film photography. From that moment, she was captivated by the way a camera and light could shape an image. She went on to study photography and quickly immersed herself in the industry, gaining experience across a range of genres before focusing on portraiture.

During the episode, Hannah shares key moments from her career, including a personal loss that led to a life-changing opportunity in New Zealand, which gave her a fresh perspective and helped refine her skills. She talks about the importance of staying true to your creative voice, even when industry trends tempt you to stray. Hannah also discusses her transition into teaching and how she simplifies lighting techniques to make them accessible to all photographers.

As a Sony Imaging Ambassador, Hannah explains how she initially resisted switching to mirrorless but was quickly won over by the technology’s capabilities. She also answers questions from SheClickers about her favourite personal projects, working with teams and the business side of photography.

If you’re passionate about portrait photography and want insight from an experienced professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Listen now and take your photography to the next level!

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Sony
This podcast is supported by Sony, maker of class-leading camera equipment and cutting-edge technologies – like the Global Shutter in the Alpha 9 III which won the SheClicks 2024 Award for Innovation.

Takeaways
Here are six key takeaways from the episode that you can apply to your own photography or photography business:

1. Lighting is key to great portraits – Mastering lighting techniques can elevate your portrait photography. Understanding how to shape and control light helps create depth, mood and impact.
2. Stay true to your style – Following trends can be tempting, but developing and sticking to your unique photographic style will help attract the right clients and set you apart.
3. Photography is about more than just the camera – Technical skills are important, but posing, composition and directing your subject play a crucial role in creating strong portraits.
4. Photography is 80% people skills, 20% technique – A great portrait comes from making your subject feel comfortable and confident. Developing strong communication skills is just as important as knowing camera settings.
5. Continuous learning keeps you ahead – Whether it’s new camera technology, lighting setups, or refining posing techniques, stay curious and committed to learning.
6. Building a photography business takes strategy – Success in photography isn’t just about taking great images. Marketi

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson chats with Stephanie Johnson, a self-taught photographic artist renowned for her mastery of Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) and multiple exposure techniques. Stephanie is the founder of the ICM Photography Magazine, a digital publication dedicated to showcasing creative work, and she also leads workshops across the UK and US. 

Stephanie’s journey into photography began 30 years ago with a film SLR in Okinawa, Japan, but it wasn’t until a transformative trip to Ireland in 2015 that she rediscovered her passion. Following a challenging period in her personal life, Stephanie turned to photography to reconnect with her creative self. It was during this time that she discovered ICM, a technique that aligned perfectly with her artistic vision and deep connection to the landscape. 

Throughout the conversation, Stephanie shares the joys and challenges of mastering ICM, a technique that relies on movement, intuition, and experimentation. She discusses how ICM allowed her to connect more deeply with both local and distant landscapes, turning even the most ordinary scenes into opportunities for creative exploration. 

Stephanie also reflects on the role of photography in personal growth, explaining how embracing imperfections and letting go of expectations helped her find freedom both behind the camera and in life. Her advice to photographers? “Don’t wait for perfect conditions, start moving the camera and see what happens.” 

Tune in to hear how Stephanie transformed her creative journey, built a thriving ICM community and continues to push the boundaries of her art. Whether you’re new to ICM or an experienced photographer, her insights will inspire you to see the world and your photography in a new way.

Takeaways

1. Embrace Imperfection for Growth
Stephanie highlights that creativity thrives when you let go of expectations. Experimenting with ICM teaches you to embrace imperfections as part of the artistic process and personal growth. 

2. Start Moving and See What Happens
With ICM, there’s no right or wrong way to begin. Stephanie encourages photographers to pick up their camera, start moving it and let the results guide their creative journey. 

3. Find Beauty in Every Scene
Whether photographing the grand landscapes of Ireland or the subtler scenery of Iowa, ICM allows you to connect deeply with the landscape and see beauty in unexpected places. 

4. Creativity Can Be Therapeutic
Stephanie shares how photography, especially ICM, played a vital role in her emotional healing. Engaging in creative practices can offer stability and joy during challenging times. 

5. Consistency Builds Style
Stephanie emphasises the importance of "doing the work." Regularly practising ICM not only hones your skills but also helps develop a distinctive style that reflects your vision. 

6. Experiment with Gear and Techniques
From using neutral density filters to experimenting with multiple exposures and Lensbaby lenses, Stephanie shows that pushing your creative boundaries can lead to exciting new discoveries.

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with Sony Imaging Ambassador Kate Kirkman, a multi-talented photographer known for her exceptional wedding, boudoir, portrait and commercial photography, as well as her more recent ventures into videography. 

Kate opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her career, including her journey to mastering technical skills like flash photography, an achievement that significantly boosted her confidence and transformed her approach to shoots. She shares how this confidence has been instrumental in evolving her business and diversifying into new genres like video production. 

Relocating to Cornwall in 2023 brought fresh opportunities and challenges for Kate and her husband Brent, who has also started lecturing in video at Falmouth University. Kate reflects on how building local connections and embracing community have helped establish a new foundation for their hybrid photography business while maintaining ties with clients across the UK. 

Angela and Kate also delve into the growing importance of videography in photography businesses, discussing how they’ve adapted to meet client demands and integrate storytelling across both mediums. 

Throughout the episode, Kate offers valuable insights into managing a photography business, from navigating imposter syndrome and balancing technical mastery with creative storytelling to maintaining a healthy work-life balance in a competitive industry. 

Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned professional, Kate’s candid reflections and practical advice will leave you inspired and motivated. 

Listen now to discover how Kate Kirkman continues to evolve as a photographer, adapt to new challenges, and stay creatively inspired in a rapidly changing industry.

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Sony
This podcast is supported by Sony, maker of class-leading camera equipment and cutting-edge technologies – like the Global Shutter in the Alpha 9 III which won the SheClicks 2024 Award for Innovation.

Takeaways

1. Master Your Craft 
Building technical skills, such as mastering lighting or new techniques, can significantly boost your confidence and elevate your photography. 

2. Adapt to New Environments 
Relocating your business is challenging, but maintaining strong relationships and actively networking in your new community can create new opportunities. 

3. Diversify Your Services 
Incorporating videography or exploring new genres helps keep your business relevant and adaptable to client needs. 

4. Overcome Imposter Syndrome 
Recognise unfair comparisons and focus on personal growth rather than external perceptions to build self-confidence. 

5. Streamline Your Workflow 
Effective business management, including using tools for automation and organisation, is key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 

6. Embrace Lifelong Learning 
Staying creative and inspired often requires continuous learning and embracing challenges, leading to personal and professional growth.  

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with the multi-talented Delaney McQuown, a photographer, digital technician and artist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Delaney’s work, which spans commercial and fine art photography, is defined by its vibrant use of colour and a fearless approach to self-portraiture. In 2024, she won the Claire Aho Award for Women Photographers at the World Food Photography Awards (formerly the Pink Lady Food Photography awards)for her striking self-portrait, BLT Contemplation.

Delaney shares how she first discovered photography as a teenager, building on her love for art nurtured in a creatively supportive household. Her education at the University of Cincinnati further honed her skills, combining fine art principles with practical experience through a co-op programme. Now, as a photographer at OMS Photography, she balances the demands of commercial projects with her passion for personal work.

A significant theme of this episode is Delaney’s self-portraiture project, which she describes as a therapeutic journey to embrace her own image. This project has evolved into a series designed to help other women experience the same sense of liberation. Her latest series, *Swimsuit Season*, invites women to shed societal pressures and embrace their authentic selves in a playful and empowering environment.

Angela and Delaney also discuss the challenges and rewards of entering photography competitions, the impact of winning awards, and the importance of persistence. Delaney offers valuable advice for photographers looking to submit their work, encouraging them to trust their intuition and focus on creating for themselves.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation to learn how Delaney is redefining beauty and creativity through her bold and vibrant photography. Don’t miss her practical tips, heartfelt insights, and infectious passion for empowering women through the lens.

Takeaways

1. The Therapeutic Power of Self-Portraiture
   Delaney shares how her self-portraiture journey helped her confront insecurities and embrace her image, inspiring her to create empowering experiences for other women. 

2. Blending Fine Art and Commercial Photography 
   Delaney discusses how her fine art background influences her bold, colourful commercial photography, creating a unique and vibrant style. 

3. Winning the Claire Aho Award
   Delaney reflects on the impact of winning the prestigious Clarie Aho Award, which reignited her passion for entering competitions and validated her creative vision. 

4. Encouraging Women to Redefine Beauty
   Through projects like Swimsuit Season, Delaney creates spaces for women to express themselves authentically and challenge societal beauty standards. 

5. The Importance of Entering Competitions
   Delaney emphasises the value of submitting work to competitions, encouraging photographers to embrace the process without fear of rejection. 

6. Balancing Commercial Work and Personal Projects
   Delaney highlights how her commercial photography job provides technical skills and support, which she applies to her deeply personal creative projects.

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Join us for a special episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, where Angela Nicholson, founder of SheClicks, revisits some of her favourite moments from the first 20 episodes. In this highlights episode, we hear insightful answers from 12 talented photographers featured in the popular Six from SheClicks segment.

Cristina Mittermeier opens the episode by discussing how she uses photography to inspire environmental action through powerful storytelling. Tracy Calder shares the creative journey behind her award-winning ‘Plant Scars’ series, while Rachael Talibart explains how weather conditions influence her approach to seascape photography.

Christie Goodwin reflects on managing personal feelings when photographing challenging subjects in the music industry. Fashion photographer Lindsay Adler offers expert tips for working with models, ensuring natural and dynamic poses. Meanwhile, portrait photographer Carolyn Mendelsohn reveals how she creates a collaborative environment that helps subjects feel at ease.
Kate Kirkman explains how she balances her varied photography businesses, from weddings to boudoir and commercial work. Music photographer Scarlet Page shares career advice for aspiring photographers, emphasising persistence and making the most of every opportunity.

Food photographer Donna Crous reveals her sources of inspiration, from seasonal ingredients to vibrant colour combinations. Marina Spironetti highlights what separates great travel photography from holiday snapshots.
Brooke Shaden discusses how creative shifts can lead to unexpected fine art concepts, while Amy Bateman underscores the value of continuous learning to keep evolving as a photographer.

This episode is packed with practical tips, creative insights and personal stories from these extraordinary photographers. Listen now for a dose of inspiration and expert advice to fuel your own photographic journey!

CEWE
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.
Now is a great time to look back over the last year and put together a PHOTOBOOK of all your photographic highlights. A CEWE PHOTOBOOK is a great way to remember all those wonderful family gatherings, spontaneous snapshots and epic holidays.

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Jessica McGovern started getting involved with photography at the age of 14 as a way to channel her emotions and find her place in the world. She was drawn to photography because it allowed her to use her hands and her brain, and it provided a physical and mental outlet. Jess started teaching photography organically, answering questions and sharing her knowledge in online communities. She also began teaching in-person workshops and offering one-on-one mentoring.
Jessica has won numerous accolades for her photography, which has helped boost her confidence and establish her credibility in the industry. However, she acknowledges the pressure and potential negative impact of competitions on mental health and advises photographers to seek feedback and take breaks when needed. Jess McGovern shares her personal experiences with miscarriage and her journey in photography. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of communication with clients, and the different camera systems for animal photography. She also talks about the Tog Spot community and the benefits of working with dogs and horses.

Takeaways

• Photography can be a powerful emotional outlet and a way to find one's place in the world.
• Teaching photography can happen organically through sharing knowledge and answering questions in online communities.
• Accolades and recognition can boost confidence and establish credibility in the industry.
• Competitions can be both rewarding and challenging, and it's important to prioritize mental health and seek feedback when needed. 
• Miscarriage can be a traumatic and isolating experience, and it's important to have support and understanding.
• Effective communication with clients is crucial in photography.
• Working with dogs and horses can be rewarding and challenging, and understanding their behaviour is key to capturing great photos.

Connect with Jessica
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That Tog Spot
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Sony
This podcast is supported by Sony, maker of class-leading camera equipment and cutting-edge technologies – like the Global Shutter in the Alpha 9 III which won the SheClicks 2024 Award for Innovation.

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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.

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CEWE
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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