I’m letting you in on a secret…

I’m still learning - phew I said it. I am 100% committed to lifelong learning and I love it. I enjoy finding behind the scenes footage and tutorials on instagram and I love finding out new things about my camera. Until recently I was a member of some photography associations, however I’ve taken charge of my learning again and know that I’ll get there quicker with myself at the wheel. Hats off to everyone who’s given me advice and guidance over the last few years but I’m back in control and I’m loving it.

I recently posted a memory from facebook and while I was looking at the image I realised that I’ve always used direct flash but recently not so much, I couldn’t understand why, so I had a look through some galleries wondering when it changed and realised that I should upgrade my flashgun, no harm to it, its 7 years old but yes it was time for it to retire. Especially as I’ve upgraded the camera. I pointed the camera and new toy at my grandson and bingo, the direct flash effect was back.

I don’t use it all the time but for parties in particular and wedding receptions it’s powerful and it’s very much in vogue right now. So tip of the day is check your kit, you might need an upgrade.

Learning can be fun but it can also be difficult when the path you’re pursuing isn’t an exact fit to the path others think you should be on. My career has never been linear, it’s up and down and round about and that’s how you learn and it keeps life interesting.

Staying in the same job until you die feels like you already have and it’s why photography keeps me on my toes. Every client, every shoot is like starting a new job, always the new girl, always learning the ropes of what’s required and open to adventures along the way (just don’t make me climb heights).

Of course the experience is there, but how many times will I be asked to photograph Billy Connolly with one days notice? How many times will I photograph your wedding, how many times will your child be born - the answer to all is once and I need to make sure I know what I’m doing, have everything to hand for the unknown, that I’m patient when your child cries, that I get you walking down and up the aisle and that I make the most of being in the company of one of the greatest comedians of our time, even better that he’s Scottish.

To do all of this I need to commit to continuous development and making the most of the opportunities that turn up for me. That doesn’t mean you don’t get wonderful images, what it does mean is that I continue to offer new ideas, to stay ahead of the curve, to react to new trends and to pioneer new approaches.