Rebecca Douglas: Storytelling as a Tool for Change

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson chats with photographer and ocean advocate Rebecca Douglas about the power of visual storytelling and its role in creating real-world change. Rebecca shares how her background in geography and marine resource management shaped her approach to photography and how she uses her images to inspire curiosity, build connection and amplify environmental causes.From her early career in wedding photography to her work documenting the natural world and the people protecting it, Rebecca’s journey is a powerful example of following your instincts and letting purpose guide your path. She talks about the importance of being visible as a creative woman and how sharing your own story can be a form of activism in itself.Angela and Rebecca also explore the responsibility photographers have when working in wild and remote locations and how to balance the drive to capture compelling imagery with respect for nature and the environment.Whether she’s on a wind-blasted cliff photographing seabirds or working with charities like Whale Wise, Rebecca puts storytelling at the heart of everything she does. It’s a candid, thoughtful conversation that’s full of honesty and insight, and a reminder that photography isn’t just about the picture — it’s about the message behind it.TakeawaysStorytelling can be a powerful force for change, especially when used to raise awareness about environmental and social issues.Your background doesn't define your future - it's never too late to follow your passion or shift into work with deeper purpose.Authenticity attracts the right people - showing up as yourself in your work helps you connect with clients and audiences who value what you do.Nature is a collaborator, not just a subject - working in wild environments means respecting the elements and understanding your place within them.You don’t have to do everything - focusing your energy on one cause or area of interest allows you to make more meaningful impact.Photography is more than images - it’s about the message behind the picture and the story it tells long after the shutter clicks.Connect with RebeccaWebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeLinkedInFujifilmThis podcast is supported by Fujifilm, one of the best-known photography brands in the world. Fujifilm’s award-winning X Series and GFX system cameras and lenses are suitable for all types of photographers and videographers. Each has been developed utilising the experience gained from more than 90 years in the industry, featuring unique film simulation modes that everyone knows and loves.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with Stine Jørgensen, co-founder of Vallerret Photography Gloves. Stine shares how her love of winter, photography and adventure led her to create a brand dedicated to keeping photographers warm in freezing conditions.From sled dog tours in the Arctic to launching a product on Kickstarter, Stine reveals how she and her small team built a global brand that caters specifically to photographers. The conversation touches on the challenges of designing gloves that are both functional and stylish, and the importance of listening to real-world feedback from users.Stine also discusses how the company tests products in the snowy landscape of Norway and why understanding activity levels and photography styles is essential when creating effective winter gear. She opens up about the struggle to balance supply and demand, especially when catering to women photographers with smaller hands, and why the brand has remained intentionally small and community-focused.Listeners will hear about Vallerret’s evolving product range, including the return of a women’s glove, a new mitt design and the brand’s venture into apparel like mountain shirts and insulated vests. Stine explains how each product is made with photographers in mind, not just outdoor enthusiasts.It’s a warm, honest and inspiring conversation about turning a simple idea into a purpose-driven business. Whether you love winter photography or are just curious about product design in a niche industry, this episode is packed with insight.TakeawaysSolving a niche problem can lead to a unique and successful business.User needs and field testing should lead product design.Winter photography requires gear tailored to both temperature and activity level.Staying small can help brands stay connected with their audience.Launching with one strong product is a smart way to test the market.Creating for a community you’re part of leads to more authentic solutions.Connect with Stine (Vallerret)WebsiteYouTubeFacebookInstagramSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson talks with Lara Jackson, a conservation biologist, Nikon Creator and award-winning wildlife photographer. Lara’s passion for protecting wildlife shines through in everything she does, and her work combines science, visual storytelling and advocacy.We chat about how her journey into photography began by accident during her zoology studies, and how her love for animals turned into a way of raising awareness through images. From researching black rhinos in Kenya to becoming an ambassador for Save the Rhino, Lara uses her photography to tell meaningful stories that inspire action.Lara also speaks honestly about the pressures of the photography industry, particularly around competition. She believes strongly in lifting others up and working collaboratively to create a more supportive and ethical space, especially within conservation. Her thoughts on balancing ambition with kindness are a welcome reminder of what really matters.The conservation also touches on the challenges of self-employment, the ups and downs of finding work and how photographers can protect wildlife by being mindful of the impact of tourism. Plus, Lara offers valuable advice on getting noticed, entering competitions and staying true to your vision.This episode is full of heartfelt reflections and practical guidance. Whether you're interested in wildlife photography, conservation or building a meaningful career, Lara’s story is both inspiring and reassuring.TakeawaysCollaboration over competition leads to stronger communities and better opportunities.Photography is a powerful tool for raising awareness about wildlife and conservation.Ethical considerations matter, especially when documenting animals in their natural environment.Building a career takes persistence, and rejection is part of the process.Being true to your values helps define your photographic voice and build trust.Networking and communication are vital for finding and creating meaningful opportunities.Connect with LaraWebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson talks to landscape and outdoor photographer Courtney Victoria about the journey from creative overwhelm to building a calm and focused photography practice.Courtney shares how she went from studying fine art and theatre design to discovering her love for photography in the university darkroom. After time spent working in a camera shop and teaching English in South Korea, she began exploring landscape photography, and eventually developed a passion for macro work and mindful image-making.Now based in the South West of England, Courtney is a full-time content creator and photographer, running workshops, sharing her process on YouTube and helping others connect with nature through their cameras.She talks about how she deals with creative paralysis, why journaling is essential to her process and how she manages the pressures of being visible online. From running a business to exploring small forest scenes, Courtney offers valuable insight into balancing passion with practicality.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to reconnect with your creativity, Courtney’s story is a reassuring reminder that it’s okay to start small, take your time and trust your instincts.TakeawaysStarting before you're ready helps overcome creative paralysis. You don’t need to feel confident to begin — confidence often follows action.Journaling can be a powerful tool to clear mental clutter. Writing things down helps organise thoughts and unlock creativity.Nature photography encourages mindfulness. Slowing down and observing your surroundings leads to more intentional image-making.You don’t need a huge audience to succeed. Building trust and connection with a small, loyal community can be just as rewarding.Teaching others can strengthen your own skills. Workshops and sharing your process deepen your understanding of your craft.Multiple income streams can support a creative career. Combining content creation, workshops, writing and partnerships can build a sustainable business.Connect with CourtneyWebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode, Angela Nicholson speaks with Anna Sparham, Curator of Photography for the National Trust. Anna’s career spans over two decades in the museum and gallery sector, including 15 years at the Museum of London. Now responsible for more than half a million photographs in the National Trust’s collections, Anna’s work uncovers the rich and often surprising stories hidden in the archives.Anna shares how her lifelong passion for photography, first sparked by her father’s teaching and time spent in the darkroom as a child, led her to a career in photographic curation. She talks about the importance of not just preserving photographs, but also interpreting them and bringing them to life for the public.We explore the creation of the book 100 Photographs from the Collections of the National Trust, how she chose the images, and why some of the most powerful photographs come from unknown or amateur photographers. Anna also discusses her own personal photography journey, including a creative project based in her local park using large-format film and cyanotypes to reconnect with her own photographic voice.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in photography, storytelling, or curatorial work. It offers a fascinating look behind the scenes at how the National Trust is working to make its photographic collection more accessible and engaging, and how images from the past continue to shape our understanding of the world today.TakeawaysCuratorial work is deeply collaborative – it involves engaging with colleagues, researchers, and the public to bring stories to life.Historical photography offers timeless inspiration – images from the past can still shape how we see and photograph today.Photography projects thrive on consistency – regular practice builds both confidence and creative vision.Editing is as important as capturing – selecting the right images helps define the message and narrative.Material qualities matter – original prints, negatives and contact sheets all tell different parts of a story.Curation connects past and present – showcasing historical images can make them meaningful to contemporary audiences.Connect with AnnaInstagramLinkedInNational Trust CollectionsNational Trust100 Photographs from the Collections of the National TrustCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode, Angela Nicholson talks with Emily Lowrey, wedding photographer turned YouTuber, who runs the popular Micro Four Nerds channel.Emily’s journey into photography began as a way to cope with extreme shyness, using her camera as a way to connect with others. What started as a safe space soon grew into a thriving wedding photography career that lasted more than a decade. Alongside her weddings, she developed a passion for small cameras and everyday photography, which later inspired her YouTube channel.She shares how she transitioned from weddings to creating content, why she has stuck with Micro Four Thirds, and how photography has shaped her confidence and career. Emily also discusses her proudest moments, from being featured in a YouTube campaign to working with Panasonic on a major camera launch.This conversation is full of encouragement for photographers and creators alike, with advice on starting a channel, finding your niche, and staying authentic.TakeawaysPhotography can be a powerful tool for building confidence and self-expression.Authenticity matters more than emulating others, your voice has value.Choosing a niche thoughtfully can help shape a sustainable creative path.Perseverance and consistency are key to long-term growth in any field.Boundaries and balance protect creativity and prevent burnout.Every experience, from challenges to achievements, contributes to your unique story.Connect with EmilyWebsiteYouTubeFacebookInstagramCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with award-winning photographic artist Laura Pannack, celebrated for her intimate portraits and thoughtful long-term documentary projects.Laura shares how her journey into photography began in childhood, surrounded by the magic of her father’s darkroom. But it was during a fine art foundation course that she truly fell in love with photography, discovering the emotional depth and creative freedom that working with film can bring. She talks about the meditative quality of shooting on analogue and why not knowing exactly what you’ve captured until later is part of the joy.Throughout the conversation, Laura discusses the importance of curiosity in her work, and how she selects projects that are universal, emotionally resonant and deeply human. Whether she’s working with vulnerable communities or exploring youth and identity, her aim is to connect, to learn and to tell stories that inspire empathy.Angela and Laura also delve into the realities of sustaining a creative practice—from finding funding and managing production to staying motivated during slow patches. Laura talks openly about self-doubt, creative blocks and how entering awards and attending photography events has helped her grow her confidence and network.With honesty, humour and insight, Laura reflects on what keeps her inspired, the challenges she faces and the lessons she's learned over two decades in the industry.If you're a photographer looking for guidance, encouragement or simply some thoughtful conversation about creativity and connection, this episode is a must-listen.Connect with LauraWebsiteInstagramFacebookCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textRomanian photographer Mihaela Noroc joins Angela Nicholson in this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast to talk about her global portrait project, The Atlas of Beauty. Mihaela has spent more than a decade travelling the world and photographing women from diverse cultures, backgrounds and generations. Her aim? To challenge stereotypes and show that beauty is everywhere.She shares how a disheartening experience at university caused her to step away from photography for years and how travel helped her reconnect with her passion. What began as a personal project on the streets of foreign cities quickly became a viral success, eventually leading to two published books and a growing international following.Mihaela opens up about the realities of life on the road, how she approaches women for portraits and the importance of building trust. She discusses why she doesn’t limit her work to a specific look or age group and how her own struggles with body image inspired her to broaden the world’s understanding of beauty.Now a mother, Mihaela continues her work with a new sense of balance, often taking her family along and exploring analogue photography as a slower, more meaningful way of working. Her reflections on beauty, confidence and resilience are a reminder of the power photography has to change how we see each other and ourselves.Connect with MihaelaWebsiteFacebookInstagramCEWEThis episode is brought to you by CEWE - Europe's leading photo printing company and their hero product, the CEWE Photobook that is the proud recipient of the Which? Best Buy award.You know those thousands of photos sitting on your phone or hard drive? With a CEWE Photobook, you can turn your memories into a beautiful, high-quality album that you’ll want to show off. Every page is fully customisable and you can pick from a range of sizes, finishes, and layouts, designing every detail with their easy-to-use editor — or let their Smart Assistant help. So if you’re ready to do something real with your photos, head over to cewe.co.uk.Support the show

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson chats with photographer, journalist and Leica Ambassador Lara Platman. Lara is known for documenting endangered crafts, cultural heritage and the theatrical world of historic motor racing.Lara’s story begins with printing images with her father in their home larder-turned-darkroom, an experience that laid the foundations for her love of film photography. After studying fine art and specialising in photography and sound installations, Lara carved out a career that spans the Royal Opera House, Country Life magazine and The Telegraph.A pivotal influence on her journey was discovering photographers Lee Miller and Madame Yevonde, trailblazers whose work showed her the power of storytelling, independence and visual experimentation. Lara’s admiration for these women is palpable, and she credits them with helping her develop the confidence to carve her own creative path.Now a regular at events like Goodwood Revival and Le Mans Classic, Lara’s images capture the backstage moments of motor racing, intimate portraits of drivers, engineers and vintage machinery, often taken by night using her beloved Leica M6 and Noctilux lens.In this episode, Lara discusses her creative process, her commitment to shooting with intention and why she believes photography is both therapeutic and transformative. She also shares the story behind her Leica ambassador role and her approach to teaching others.Whether you are passionate about analogue photography, drawn to historic narratives or seeking inspiration from pioneering women in the arts, this episode is sure to ignite your creative spark.TakeawaysTrust your artistic instincts – Lean into what feels creatively fulfilling, even if it’s not conventional.Learn from pioneering women – Studying past trailblazers like Lee Miller can shape your own photographic voice.Be open to unexpected opportunities – A surprising commission or chance meeting can redirect your whole career.Embrace analogue techniques – Film photography offers a tactile, intentional experience that shapes your vision.Tell the whole story – Great photography captures more than the moment; it reveals the scene, the people and the purpose.Teaching others teaches you – Sharing knowledge helps clarify your own ideas and keeps your creativity fresh.Connect with LaraWebsiteInstagramLinkedInYouTubeSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode, Angela Nicholson speaks with pioneering sports photographer Eileen Langsley, who built a remarkable career capturing the world’s top athletes. From her start as a PE teacher in Sheffield to photographing 14 Olympic Games, Eileen has broken barriers and challenged outdated stereotypes through her powerful imagery.Eileen discusses how she got into photography in the 1970s and '80s, driven by the lack of strong images of women in sport. Despite facing industry-wide sexism, she persisted and became one of the most respected voices in Olympic coverage, working for organisations like the International Gymnastics Federation and covering sports from gymnastics and figure skating to rugby and athletics.She shares the skills needed to succeed in sports photography, including deep sporting knowledge, anticipation, and technical precision, and reflects on the industry’s evolution over the decades. From darkroom prints to digital workflows and crowded press pits, she has seen it all and shares candid, sometimes moving reflections on her journey.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in sports, photography, or the tenacity it takes to challenge the status quo and build a lasting legacy.TakeawaysDeep knowledge of your subject is essential – Understanding a sport improves your timing, anticipation and ultimately your imagery.Persistence pays off – Even when opportunities are few and rejection is common, staying the course can lead to a rewarding career.Preparation isn’t just technical – Scouting angles, understanding athlete routines and watching warm-ups are all part of the process.You can’t rely on equipment alone – Great photography comes from timing, skill and creative vision, not just the latest camera gear.Visibility matters – Creating honest, respectful imagery of women in sport helps shift perceptions and challenge stereotypes.Your attitude counts – Professionalism, humility, and being a good colleague are as important as the images you produce.Connect with EileenWebsiteBooksSupport the show