56 https://fionamillsart.com FIONA MILLS ART PHOTOGRAPHY Although Fiona studied art and languages at college, she’s had a camera in her hand from early childhood. “I’ve always been the one to capture all the incriminating evidence at parties, events and social gatherings,” she says. When discussing study opportunities at the time, photography wasn’t an option given to her, but over the years she continued to develop her craft and present her art through photography. So much so that keeping up with commissions started to interfere with her day job! In 2008, she decided to bite the bullet and become a self-employed photographer, continuing to grow and develop her skills through prestigious photography associations. How would you describe your photographic style? “Creative, contemporary and classic. I like to use the environment to create portraiture and images that stand out, while building a relationship with my clients allowing me to draw out the essence of who they are in the photographs. On the flip side, I can also be found hiding in the bushes to ensure I don’t miss out on the candid action and unposed moments too!” There are so many photographers out there. How do we choose the right one for us? “The most important thing I always say to potential clients is that you have to feel comfortable with the person you’re choosing to capture you on the most intimate, vulnerable and emotional day of your life. As photographers, we’re often helping with those pesky dresses that won’t do up, fixing buttonholes, and shielding you from stressors and difficulties on the day. We should be like the friend you didn’t know you had – someone you feel safe with, who’s got your back, and who you know will return with incredible photographic memories. If your gut tells you that you don’t gel with that supplier, then they’re not the one for you.” FIND OUT MORE https://fionamillsart.com @fionamillsart_photographer LAUREN BETH PHOTOGRAPHY Lauren has always been passionate about capturing photos, especially as a child when she would go on day trips with her “Gramps.” He’d show her the camera basics and they’d set off to photograph flowers, nature, landscapes and more on their walks together. As a teenager she studied photography at A Level, where she discovered a passion for developing her own photos in the darkroom and watching the images suddenly appear. After college she went into a couple of photography jobs, one for a newspaper and one for a high street store, but she was never able to be as creative as she wanted to be. It wasn’t until she was asked to shoot her auntie’s wedding that she found that outlet. From there her love for wedding photography grew as she captured more big days. So, she invested in workshops and gained experience as a second shooter and built up her business. How would you describe your photography style? “Natural, attentive and relaxed – photographing the big day as it unfolds, capturing all the little details and moments that make the day so personal. My editing style is also natural with warm, soft tones throughout.” We’re both a bit camera shy and are feeling anxious about photos on our wedding day. Can you offer some advice? “Most of my couples feel like this before their wedding day, it’s completely normal. Try to focus on just the two of you, be in the moment together and most importantly, just be yourselves. Personally, I like to start with a little walk and chat together for your couple portraits to ease any nerves and relax you into the photos together with gentle guidance and prompts throughout.” www.laurenbethphotography.co.uk FIND OUT MORE www.laurenbethphotography.co.uk @ lauren.beth.photography
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