I often get asked how I got into bridal photography as a young mum.
I was just 25 when I started my photography business, with my first baby only two weeks old. He’s now 28! I had no maternity leave and worked evenings and weekends, which was tough. Looking back, I might have made different choices because my son needed me and I definitely missed him when I was away.
But I’d spotted a gap in the market for a female-led service that created beautiful, flattering and artistic portraits for brides. I felt my sensitivity and creative approach could make women feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
I advertised in bridal magazines and Vogue, and the response was huge. Within a year, I was employing other female photographers and the business was booming.
I think the success came from creating a signature collection of flattering poses designed around the feminine shape — movement, twists, lifts, bends and stretches, with simple sets and lighting that let the body and the photography do the talking.
What I loved most was seeing women change the way they saw themselves. Instead of focusing on the parts they criticised, they could see their whole shape differently and appreciate things they hadn’t noticed before.
After five years, I opened another studio in the UK. Being one of the first to pioneer boudoir photography also brought international press attention, which helped the business grow even further.
After 15 years of running multiple FYEO studios, I went through a divorce and eventually restructured the business back to its original location.
Today, I have two grown-up children, remarried at 49, and still run FYEO Portraits every day.
And honestly, if I was starting again, I wouldn’t do anything differently.
I love my business. I love helping women feel fabulous, and I still love the romance of helping brides create their secret wedding gift.
