The voice behind the lens
Well, where do I begin? A “hello” probably would be a good place to start. So, hello! This is my first attempt at writing a blog for my photography business and I guess, I’m just trying to think about what people would actually like to read about. If you enjoy reading this blog and if you’d like to help me craft the next one, let me know your thoughts. After all, this really is for you.
I suppose, I should really introduce myself properly before I start writing about the business. This could turn into a whole lot of waffle - I’ve been told I tell stories with too much detail. But, hey, surely knowing all of the “ins and outs” is key to a good story!
Anyway, I’m Steph and I started Stephanie Adele Photography (officially) just over a year ago. However, I did have it as my sideline for nearly two years, before I made the jump to fully pursue it. You see, I used to be an English teacher (waiting for judgement on punctuation and no, I refuse to run this blog through Chat GPT to “make it better” although, I won’t deny I do use it for other areas of my business) but yes, it was secondary, not primary. And, no - the kids aren’t (all) as bad as they seem to be.
Don’t get me wrong - being a teacher is not an easy job! For so many reasons. Although, you’re probably here because you’re interested in photography not teaching - so I’ll leave the details for another time. Basically, to cut a long story short (which you should know now is difficult for me!) I loved being a teacher but I felt it took every inch of my soul. I couldn’t switch off from it and being a teacher at the moment, means that you’ve got to be able to deal with the idea of not being able to “fix” everything. A moment’s pause, for my fellow teachers who are still putting in 110% - I will always, take my hat off to you. Insert {plea to give teachers more credit than they’re due here.} I also want to mention that I still do supply teaching. I’m so lucky that I’m in a fortunate position to be able to still teach flexibly. Which means, the stress of money is much more limited. I imagine I will be supply teaching for at least the next year, while the business carefully grows.
So, a rather drastic change of career was ultimately the decision I made at the end of April 2024. I handed my notice in and planned to fully immerse myself in the business. Between leaving teaching and kicking off the business - my husband and I (along with two extremely close friends) flew to Vietnam and decided to have our wedding ceremony out there, on the beach. Hoi An, if you were interested. Leanne, was our celebrant, I will reference her at the end, because she deserves it. However, this will be the focus of another blog - I can assure you that!
It was the most incredible day. But, for now all I want to say on this note is, getting married in the way that we did it, taught us the importance of doing exactly what you want on your big day. This is where I specify that I do, in fact, photograph weddings!
My business is divided up into three main areas; wedding photography, family photography and newborn photography. I do occasionally do branding photography, event photography and stage photography. But, the first three are where I spend most of my time. This blog post is just a very short introduction to me and my business. So, I will write individuals posts about each section.
I’m going to finish this one up here - it wasn’t so bad! In fact, I do love writing (the English teacher in me can’t deny it). Before I leave, I wanted to share a little more about me so, I’ll give you two truths and a lie about me. I’ll reveal the lie next time.
When I was about 12, I broke my arm playing football for the Bristol Rovers Supporters club.
I have eaten a scorpion.
My biggest fear is swimming in the ocean.
If you’ve read this far, just know that I appreciate it.
I’m thinking to make these a weekly thing.
Over and out. Lots of love xxxxxxxx
Celebrant - Leanne (Vietnam) https://www.weddingcelebrantvietnam.com/