My Journey to Becoming a Wedding Photographer in Devon and Somerset

The Story Behind My Journey to Becoming a Wedding Photographer in Devon and Somerset - How I Turned My Passion into a Career

Ever since I was little, I’ve been fascinated by photography. It all started with my grandad — he was never a professional, but he was always snapping pictures. Whether it was family holidays or just days out, he had his camera in hand. He used to let me take photos with it too, and that’s where the spark ignited. I was hooked!

When I was 12, I got my very first camera — a compact digital one. It wasn’t fancy, but I didn’t care. I brought it everywhere with me around Devon and Somerset, taking pictures of nature, architecture, and anything that caught my eye. From that young age, I knew photography wasn’t just a hobby — it was a passion, and I wanted to pursue it as a career. I just didn’t know in what direction yet.

Fast forward a few years and I was still out and about with my camera. I often borrowed my grandad’s DSLR and kept learning through trial and error. Unfortunately, when I was choosing my GCSEs, photography wasn’t even an option at my school. Then, at the end of 2019 — just as I was finishing Year 11 — my grandad passed away. It was devastating, but I’m so grateful that I was able to keep all of his cameras. They mean the world to me.

By the time I was choosing college courses, I knew I didn’t want to do A-levels. After the chaos of COVID and the cancellation of GCSEs, the last thing I wanted was more exams. I was torn between a cooking course (which I loved and did well in) and a digital media course that included film, photography and design. Everyone told me to take the practical route — but I followed my heart.

And thank goodness I did.

In the first year of college, something unexpected happened. Someone in a local Facebook group near Torbay was looking for a student to photograph their wedding. A few kind recommendations later, I was booked for my first wedding in July 2021 — and I was only 17! I had the best time ever, and that one day helped me realise this is what I wanted to do with my photography. It was the beginning of my journey to becoming a wedding photographer in Devon and Somerset.

I finished college in 2022 with a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Digital Media and tried offering couple and family shoots to build a portfolio… but honestly, it was a slow start. Even free shoots were hard to book! 😅

But I didn’t let that stop me. I used some money I had inherited from my grandad to invest in a better camera, and in January 2023, I launched my very first wedding photography price list. I kept my prices low, was totally transparent about my experience, and ran a £10 Facebook ad. I didn’t know much about marketing, but to my surprise — it worked!

In 2023, I was 19 and booked 7 of my own weddings and second-shot another one, bringing it to 8 weddings in Devon and Somerset for the year. It was an incredible experience. I learned on the job, met lovely couples, and started building my confidence and style. I also worked hard behind the scenes — building my website, posting regularly on social media, and picking up new skills.

Then came 2024. After such a great first year, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I ended up booking 26 weddings across Devon, Somerset, and the South West — and I loved every minute of it! I reached out to experienced photographers and second-shot weddings for free, soaking up every bit of advice I could. I also reinvested in my business — upgrading my kit, buying higher-end lenses and cameras, and getting a MacBook to level up my editing game.

During the quieter season over winter, I focused on content. I wrote blogs, updated my wedding photography website, and kept posting behind-the-scenes and throwbacks on Instagram and Facebook to stay visible.

Now in 2025, I already have 20 weddings booked across Devon, Somerset, and beyond — some of which I’ve already shot, and others I can’t wait for. I’ve found my true calling, and I’m genuinely so grateful for that.

Not only have I discovered my dream job, but I’ve also made some amazing friendships through the wedding industry and photography world. And of course, none of this would be possible without the incredible couples who have trusted me to capture their big days. I’m forever thankful.

Looking ahead, 2026 is already starting to fill up, and I’m so excited to see where this journey takes me next.

Whether you’re planning a wedding in Exeter, Torbay, Tiverton, Barnstaple, or anywhere in the South West, I’d love to be part of your day and capture those special moments. If you're looking for someone who truly loves what they do and has built their business from the heart — I'm your girl. 💜

Contact Me