Tell us about you, who you are, hobbies, fav things. Can be random and silly!
I’m about as silly as they can get, I love to have fun in life. I love to capture beauty and show people that beauty. When I’m not doing weddings I’m doing landscapes! Something about that is so peaceful.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a photographer?
I’d say this goes back to the days I was exploring the Lake District, I couldn’t put the camera down. Then I looked into weddings, it’s a different kind of beauty to landscapes, it’s a privilege.
How did you first start out?
About 10 years ago I started out by shadowing other photographers and going on courses. It takes some years to grow the confidence, the experience, and the know-how to run a successful business.
How did know when the right time to start charging was?
It’s a gut instinct. It was a combination of the experience I was gaining and the courses I attended that gave me my self-confidence to start charging.
How would you describe your style?
Artistic, intimate, fun.
What’s in your gear bag?
Nikon D750
Nikon D700
Nikon F2.8 24-70mm, F2.8 70-200mm, F85mm 1.8
Pocket wizards
Nikon SB-800
One lens you can’t live without?
Practically speaking the 24-70mm is of beautiful quality and a good all-rounder because it zooms. But for beauty, I would say the 85mm because it’s so warm.
How much did you charge for your first session and how much are you charging for the same type of session now?
When I first started out I remember charging £300. Now I charge £1500.
How did you market yourself when you started out?
Back then there was no social media so I would do lots of wedding fairs. I marketed myself as a romantic and fun wedding photographer, which I still am today.
If for some reason you couldn’t be a photographer what do you think you would be?
I’ve always had a love of neuroscience so probably that.
What’s the best lesson in photography that you’ve learned so far?
To believe in myself. To focus on giving the couple the best of my ability. To be professional.
Did you go to school for photography or were you self- taught? If self-taught, what helped you the most?
I studied psychology at Uni and I thank fate that there were no jobs afterwards because that’s what made me re-think things. I am self-taught, along side studying with the BIPP. Gaining experience with other photographers helped me the most.
What has been some of the hardest things to overcome in your business?
Constantly studying to stay at the top of my game, including latest camera gear, keeping my website up to date to remain on Google’s first pages, knowing what’s current etc.
Do you have any tips for photographers just starting out?
Set an intention about what kind of photographer you want to be seen as. Set this intention following your heart, find the love it in and be sure to believe in yourself at all times.
What are your thoughts on props?
Props are cool. Whatever might make a more interesting picture is great! Though sometimes picking a flower and putting it on the edge of the lens can be just as effective (depending on the look you’re trying to achieve).
Fiona Walsh is an award winning wedding photographer who captures moments that mean so much to that individual, and creates striking images with a creative and romantic twist.
Fiona also does wedding photography training. If you’d like to see footage of Fiona working on a real wedding take a look at this video, Click Here!
Find Fiona Walsh Photography on the Web: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
