Gather to Grow: The Podcast

Feeling hesitant about adding video to your photography? In this cozy episode, I chat with Dorte, a Danish-born family photographer who makes it feel doable. From her Northamptonshire-Leicestershire home, she shares how a maternity leave redundancy led her to capture authentic family moments. With 15 years of experience, Dorte suggests starting small with your current gear—like a variable density filter—and embracing raw, unpolished footage that captures life’s real charm. Dorte’s warmth shines as she talks about crafting family films and quick marketing reels while raising two boys. Her simple tips, like WhatsApp clips or social media hacks, make video approachable. Using just a monopod and a bold mindset, she shows how to dive into reels and TikTok. This episode is a heartfelt nudge for photographers to start creating lasting memories. Connect with Dorte: Website | Instagram | Facebook Dorte's training courses. Get your ticket to Gather To Grow 2025. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Sophie Bowdler is a Dorset motherhood photographer and Mum, who shares how 20-minute mini sessions transformed her business. With 13 years of experience, she balances family life and self-employment, excelling in natural newborn shoots. Her seasonal mini sessions draw clients, boost income, and align with her values. Sophie keeps mini sessions simple yet profitable, managing expectations and upselling smartly to avoid burnout. Her tales of dodging British rain and adapting during lockdown show resilience. Now creating a pricing guide and course, Sophie’s passion for empowering photographers shines. Connect with Sophie: Website | Instagram Get your ticket to Gather To Grow 2025. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Ever thought about swapping digital for film’s soulful charm? I am joined by Victoria Phipps, a Cheshire family photographer who ditched weddings after 15 years to embrace analogue. She shares how film reignited her creativity, capturing families in timeless, candid portraits. Victoria’s honest take on imposter syndrome and love for black-and-white simplicity is a warm nudge to slow down and create with heart. Connect with Victoria: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pintrest Get your ticket to Gather To Grow 2025. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Paige Anderson, a West Sussex newborn photographer turned her passion into a thriving business. From feeling stuck in an office job, Paige bravely leapt into full-time photography during lockdown, saving up and setting a deadline to chase her dream. Paige opens up about the loneliness of going it alone and how connecting with photographers at Gather to Grow reignited her fire. With a cozy studio, mentorship, and grit to overcome self-doubt, she built something beautiful. Her story is a warm nudge for anyone ready to chase their dreams with heart and hustle. Connect with Paige: Website | Instagram Get your ticket to Gather To Grow 2025. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Jemella Ukaegbu, a South London photographer with over 15 years of experience, runs Mel’s Photography, specialising in maternity, newborns, and families. She founded the UK Black Female Photographers Community, empowering over 600 women. From a makeshift setup in her Mum’s living room to a sleek two-room studio, Jemella’s journey shines with resilience, turning challenges like burnt hard drives and tiny spaces into a thriving business. Navigating a global pandemic, Jamella adapted with ingenuity, championing the value of printed photos in a digital world. She shares insights on making any space a studio, creating client experiences that feel warm and personal, and why authenticity drives lasting success. Her story inspires photographers and dreamers alike, blending grit, heart, and hustle.   Get your ticket to Gather To Grow 2025.   Connect with Jamella: Instagram: @jemellabw | @MellzphotographyLTD Website: mellzphotography.co.uk   UK Black Female Photographers community: Instagram: @ukbftog Website: ukbftog.com   Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Curious about what it takes to capture family life’s raw essence? I sat down with Aimee, a Bristol, UK-based photographer whose cinematic, authentic style—shaped by film and renaissance art—shines after five years of practice. Motherhood sparked her journey with daughter Sierra’s pre-pandemic arrival, and a late autism diagnosis cemented her no-forced-smiles approach. In this episode, we explore balancing kids and creativity, ditching stiff portraits for candid chaos—like kids biting fingers or sulking mid-shot. Amy found her voice chasing what she loves, fuelled by pandemic struggles, a supportive partner, and slow seasons that recharge her. It’s a real, heartfelt peek into vulnerability and art colliding. Get your ticket | Join our mailing list Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Gather to Grow is back for 2025, and I’m spilling the details with Mel, my longtime partner-in-crime. This UK event is a game-changer for family and newborn photographers. It’s got a laid-back house-party vibe where introverts, parents, and dreamers like us can ditch the daily grind for drinks, real conversations, and that electric buzz you just don’t get online. Think hot tub revelations and after-party laughs—it’s a space to rethink life behind the lens with people who totally get it. We’re keeping it small this year with a festival twist, because real connection beats a crowded room any day. It’s the perfect spot to recharge your creative spark and shake off the isolation, no screens needed. Tickets are tight, with nearly 900 on the waitlist, so grab one quick and jump into the magic! Get your ticket | Join our mailing list Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Curious about capturing motherhood’s wild beauty through a camera? I loved chatting with Nina Goks, a Margate-based photographer who’s turned her lens on family life into a thriving gig. With three kids—six, three, and one—she began five years ago when her eldest was 18 months, craving a creative outlet amid parenting chaos. Now, she snaps raw, fleeting moments—Renaissance glow meets toddler tornadoes—while shaping a career that fits her family’s rhythm. Nina’s journey inspires, from early hustles to a garden studio haven. Motherhood sparked her drive to create and provide, balancing business with kids—editing during naps, trusting her gut. Her success reflects homeschooling and beach days over burnout, with a creative flair for filters and chaos. Her story resonates with passion-meets-parenting wisdom. You can learn more about Nina at ninagoks.com Build your photography webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Have you ever wondered what happens when a conflict photographer trades war zones for the wild ride of motherhood? That’s Tekie Quaye’s story, and it’s incredible. I’m thrilled to chat with when, a postpartum photographer from Australia via South London. Her photos mix raw photojournalism with cozy lifestyle shots. She’s a mother of two, a former conflict photographer, and a passionate feminist. In this episode, we dive into why storytelling drives her—from chasing truth in Rwanda to snapping her daughters’ fleeting moments. She’s real about the postpartum struggles, the challenge of turning art into a business, and how motherhood reshaped her creative spark. As a Mum of four and a photographer myself, I totally get it. We talk about embracing vulnerability—think real skin, honest stories, no props. Tekie also shares a sneak peek at her new podcast, Unravelled, and how it ties into her photography. This conversation is raw and heartfelt. It’s about rediscovering your passion, the weight of life’s big moments, and why every mother’s story matters. If you’re a creative or a Mum needing a boost, this one’s for you—full of heart and soul. Build your photography webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

I’m so excited to be chatting with Emma Lawson, a talented Scottish wedding photographer who took the leap from her corporate job to follow her passion for photography. She’s built an amazing business, expanding from weddings to newborn and family photography – and she’s here to share how she made it all happen. Emma’s journey is full of real, raw moments, from balancing the fast-paced world of wedding photography with the tenderness of family portraits, to growing her business organically. She opens up about the struggles, triumphs, and lessons she’s learned along the way – like finding your niche, pricing your work, and standing strong in a competitive market. It’s a conversation that’s not only inspiring but real and down-to-earth, filled with practical advice for anyone wanting to turn their passion into a thriving, authentic business. Build your photography webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Curious about keeping clients hooked without the social media chaos? In this episode, I’m spilling why email marketing’s my trick for a photography business that thrives. I’ll share how I snag new clients with a smart sign-up perk, keep them close, and pull past ones back with a personal twist—like a gold shiny voucher they can’t resist. It’s just me this week—no fluff, just real tips on why email marketing rocks and how you can nail it, too. Use my referral and get cash off Sprout Studio Flodesk Mailchimp Build your photohrpahy webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, Anna Hardy, a photographer with 17 years of experience shares her journey of moving from wedding photography to family and commercial work, and how the industry has changed over time. We discuss the rise of female photographers and the impact of social media on marketing—the good and the tough parts. Anna offers honest advice on running a business, stressing the importance of building it on your own terms and not relying too much on unpredictable platforms. She shares her favourite strategies for success, like networking, blogging, and email marketing. Plus, she opens up about balancing work and family life, and her thoughts on social media. Build your photohrpahy webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Lilly Anne, a maternity portrait photographer from New Orleans, to talk about the balancing act of creativity, business, and motherhood. She shares her unique journey—from studying biology to finding her passion in capturing intimate maternity portraits. We explore how Lilly keeps her creativity flowing, using mood boards and drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy of her city. She also opens up about managing burnout, embracing rest, and finding ways to recharge when her creative energy feels drained. Lilly dives into how she makes each session personal, ensuring her clients feel empowered and beautiful. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with practical tips for nurturing your own creativity, protecting your energy, and staying grounded in both your work and personal life. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What happens when creativity meets self-love and empowerment? Sarah Kate, an experienced photographer specialising in maternity and boudoir shoots, shares her journey of reconnecting with her business and self-care after burnout. In this episode, Sarah talks about transitioning from a hectic studio life to focusing on what truly inspires her: empowering women through photography. Sarah reveals how setting boundaries and prioritising personal reflection has shaped her business. We explore how taking time to recharge can spark creativity, and how Sarah blends her love for photography with empowering others, turning every shot into a celebration of individuality. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

To celebrate the launch of my new course, Foundations, which helps new photographers with everything from business planning and pricing to time management, I’m sharing the key steps to building a strong foundation for your photography business and setting yourself up for long-term success. In this episode, I cover the essentials for getting started or refining your business, including evaluating your current situation, setting goals, building your brand, and creating a website. I’ll also share how to create an authentic brand, attract your ideal clients, and design a website that works for you. Find out more about Foundations at gathertogrow.co.uk/foundations. Build your photohrpahy webiste with SHOWIT, get your first month free at showit.com/r/gtgfamily. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

How can you discover your unique voice on Instagram and reconnect with your audience? In this episode, wedding photographer Daniela Ferry talks about her journey with Instagram, touching on the love-hate relationship many have with the platform. She shares how she went from feeling lost with content creation to finding her true self and values. Daniela offers valuable insights on reconnecting with Instagram—not as a tool for validation, but as a space for authentic connection. Discover how to plan your posts with intention, find your voice, and build stronger connections with your followers, so they feel like they already know you when they reach out. Learn more and connect with Jess Collins. Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What’s the real value of upselling in photography? Is it more than just making extra profit? In this episode, we delve into the art of upselling and how it can enhance your client experience while boosting your business. From the benefits of offering physical products like albums and prints to navigating the psychology behind sales, we explore how upselling can be done in a way that feels genuine and not “salesy.” Amber and Millie from Folio Albums share their insights on how photographers can approach upselling with confidence, providing value to clients rather than pushing unnecessary purchases. They share how simple actions—like offering albums early in the process or using storytelling to communicate the value of printed products—can transform the sales experience. Discover how offering the right products can strengthen client relationships, create lasting memories, and boost your hourly rate. Amber and Millie also share practical advice for overcoming common hurdles, such as client objections and how to reframe the upselling conversation, making it about serving your clients and providing them with products they will cherish. Gather to Grow: The Podcast is produced by Urban Podcasts.

How do you measure success, and when do you know you’ve truly “made it”? In this episode, I explore the personal and professional definitions of success with Mel, a family photographer who shares her journey from humble beginnings to creating a fulfilling career. From managing the pressures of balancing work and family life to embracing the joy of doing what you love, Mel’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t always about hitting six-figure numbers. It’s about aligning your business with your values and being content with where you are. We discuss how to stop comparing yourself to others, prioritise mental health, and redefine your goals. Mel offers a fresh perspective on why it’s okay to embrace a slower pace and make decisions based on what truly matters to you—not external expectations. It’s a conversation about living authentically, finding balance, and celebrating the success you’vealready achieved. Sponsorship: policybee.com/gathertogrow Gather To Grow is produced by Urban Podcasts.

The elephant in the room, the taboo subject no one really talks about: Being a mum and being a boss: how to do it all. Join mum of four and business owner, Yasmin Anne as she walks you through the systems she has put in place to help run her life smoothly. There's tough love, vulnerability and piles of advice in this special podcast episode. As us mums head into the 6 weeks summer holiday, we hope this episode can arm you with a few tips to juggling it all... Sponsorship: www.policybee.com/gathertogrow

Ally Stuart-Ross has been a lifelong photographer in a career that has lasted over 30 years. She is a newborn photographer, an educator and a speaker. She also ran her family portrait studio, which gave her a grounding in helping clients and print sales.   But her true calling was newborn photography. She started training for this unique genre in 2019, and in 2020 I created the Mabel and Moose brand. After falling in love with newborn photography she now trains other women to become newborn photographers and become financially free.  You can create a luxury workflow for your clients very easily and the results will be that your clients will feel better about the shoot, the images and be more likely to recommend you to other. Start with sitting down and writing what you current workflow is and then make a list next to it and on that list, write down all the ways you can improve the workflow. Systemise it, bring it to the session with you (a flow posing guide or notes) and stay consistent.  Full show notes: Podcast sponsor: www.policybee.co.uk/gathertogrow Podcast guest: https://www.instagram.com/mabelandmooseeducation