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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
Website
That Tog Spot
Facebook
Instagram

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.

Connect with Denise
Website
Instagram
Facebook
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LinkedIn

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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In this conversation, Angela and Lisa discuss Lisa's transition from writing to photography, her experiences in travel photography and the evolution of her platform, The Wandering Lens. They explore the challenges of finding clients, the importance of research in travel photography and the rewarding nature of mentoring other photographers.

In this engaging podcast, Lisa shares her journey as a travel photographer, discussing the global connections made possible through the internet, her experience as an OM System ambassador and the importance of environmental consciousness in travel photography. She offers practical tips for staying warm in cold climates, reflects on the challenges of travelling extensively and emphasises the significance of personal vision in photography. Lisa also provides insights on getting published and the importance of having a well-curated online presence while sharing her favourite camera bag and its importance in her travels.

Takeaways

• Lisa's travel photography has shifted from cultural exploration to isolated landscapes.
• Self-taught photographers can develop unique styles outside of traditional training.
• Building a noticeable portfolio often requires creative approaches.
• Researching locations is crucial for capturing unique perspectives.
• Mentoring can help emerging photographers identify their potential clients.
• Photography is about creating one's vision, not just following rules.
• It's crucial to consider your carbon footprint while travelling.
• Wildlife photography can contribute to conservation efforts.
• Layering is essential for staying warm in cold climates.
• Avoid comparing your work to others on social media.

Connect with Lisa
Website
The Wandering Lens
The Travel Photography Club
Instagram
Facebook
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OM System
This episode is supported by OM System. Empowering consumers and professionals alike with innovative digital cameras, lenses, audio recorders, and binoculars, OM System's precision optics and groundbreaking technology open up new possibilities for capturing life's most precious moments.

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