Hat Margolies: What Photography Agents Really Look For

Send us Fan MailPhotography agent Hat Margolies joins Angela Nicholson on the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast to reveal what photography agents really look for and what helps a photographer build a career that lasts.Hat is a director of Lucid Representation and has more than 25 years of experience in the photography industry. Before becoming an agent, she worked as a picture editor on newspapers and magazines, experience that gave her a close view of why some photographers stand out, how commissioning decisions are made and what clients need from the people they hire.In this episode, Hat explains why a strong portfolio is about much more than including lots of good images. Consistency, clarity and a recognisable visual style all matter, as does the photographer’s ability to make people feel comfortable and confident. She also discusses the role of an agent, from handling paperwork and negotiations to helping photographers decide which opportunities are worth pursuing.The conversation explores when photographers might benefit from representation, why having an agent does not remove the need for self-promotion, and why learning to say no can be just as valuable as saying yes. Hat also shares advice on approaching agencies, including the importance of researching who they represent and showing clearly how your work might fit.Hat also shares her thoughts on the impact of AI on commercial photography. While she expects some lower-value content to shift towards AI, she believes human connection, originality and the experience of a real shoot continue to have enormous value.Packed with practical career advice, this episode offers useful insight for anyone who wants to understand the commercial photography world, strengthen their portfolio, work more effectively with clients and make informed decisions about representation. It is equally valuable for established photographers looking to refine how they present themselves.Connect with HatWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailAward-winning photographer and video journalist Jo Kearney joins Angela Nicholson on the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast to talk about a career that has taken her across the world in search of stories.Jo began as a print journalist before moving into video journalism at a time when smaller digital cameras were transforming the industry. An early trip to southern Sudan led to stories that made the top news bulletin for Associated Press for three days running and helped launch a career covering major events across Asia, the Middle East and beyond.Alongside her news work, Jo developed a passion for stills photography, particularly travel photography centred on people and their stories. She explains why she likes to arrive with a rough plan but also leave room for the unexpected, how journalism shapes the way she looks for pictures and why some of her strongest projects have emerged simply through being curious about a place.Jo also shares the story behind the image that made her the overall winner of the 2026 World Food Photography Awards. Photographed in a Soviet era sanatorium in Tajikistan, it was not originally conceived as a food photograph at all.The conversation also touches on some of Jo’s most challenging assignments, including the Asian tsunami and the rescue of child soldiers in Sierra Leone, as well as the changing world of news photography and video.Jo and Angela discuss the value of photography competitions, researching trips without over-planning them and why personal projects need somewhere to go rather than remaining unseen on a computer.It’s a fascinating conversation about travel photography, photojournalism, curiosity and finding stories in unexpected places.Connect with JoWebsiteInstagramFacebookSupport the show

Send us Fan MailMexican visual artist and photographer Citlali Fabián joins Angela Nicholson to discuss how trust, patience and collaboration can transform the portrait-making process.Citlali grew up in Oaxaca, where her father ran a photo printing shop. Watching people bring in their film and return to collect their photographs gave her an early understanding of photography as an extension of memory. Her grandmother’s careful approach to being photographed also showed her how much meaning a single image can hold for future generations.As Citlali’s interest developed, she began exploring photography as a way to tell stories about indigenous identity, migration, family and community. Her work places the people she photographs at the centre of the creative process, giving them an active role in deciding how they are represented.This approach is particularly important in Bilha: Stories of My Sisters, the series that earned Citlali the title of Photographer of the Year at the 2026 Sony World Photography Awards. Created with women from her region, the project celebrates people whose work supports their communities and inspires younger generations.Citlali explains how she shared contact sheets with each participant, invited them to help select their portrait and developed the final illustrations through conversation and feedback. She also discusses the importance of honouring someone’s decision when their preferred image differs from the photographer’s choice.During the conversation, Citlali reflects on imposter syndrome, indigenous representation and the value of seeking guidance from people you trust. She also explains why photographers should resist pressure to produce work quickly and focus instead on creating something meaningful.It is a thoughtful conversation about portrait photography, identity and the responsibility that comes with telling someone else’s story.TakeawaysBuild trust before reaching for the cameraMeaningful portraits often begin with conversation. Taking time to understand someone can reveal the details, places and experiences that matter most to them.Include people in how they are representedA photographer may prefer one image but the person in the portrait may feel differently. Collaboration can produce work that feels both visually strong and personally truthful.Do not rush the creative processGood work does not always arrive quickly. Allowing ideas to develop can lead to stronger images and more thoughtful decisions.Look closely at the stories around youPhotographers often overlook familiar people, places and experiences. Personal stories can offer a distinctive perspective that nobody else can provide.Ask trusted people for guidanceImposter syndrome can make it difficult to recognise the value of your work. Constructive support from a teacher, mentor or fellow photographer can help you move forward.Protect your values and wellbeingNot every opportunity is fair or worthwhile. It is acceptable to decline work that does not respect your time, values or contribution.Connect with CitlaliWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailAward-winning automotive photographer and Nikon Europe Ambassador Amy Shore joins Angela Nicholson for a fascinating conversation about creativity, storytelling and why developing your own photographic style has never been more important.Although Amy is best known for her evocative images of classic cars, this episode quickly reveals that her work is really about people, adventure and the stories that connect them. She explains how an unexpected route from studying silversmithing to photographing weddings and eventually becoming one of the UK's leading automotive photographers shaped the way she sees the world through her camera.Amy discusses why natural light plays such an important role in her photography, how she approaches major events such as Goodwood Revival and why trusting your own instincts is far more valuable than trying to copy someone else's style.The conversation also explores the changing photographic landscape, including the rise of artificial intelligence. Amy shares why she believes authentic photography created by real people will become even more valuable in the years ahead, arguing that genuine emotion and honest storytelling can never be replaced.Along the way, Angela and Amy also talk about working as a woman in the automotive industry, balancing a successful freelance career with family life and the importance of finding confidence in your own creative voice.Whether you photograph cars, wildlife, landscapes, weddings or family life, this episode is full of thoughtful advice about developing your style, embracing authenticity and creating photographs that genuinely reflect the way you see the world.TakeawaysDeveloping your own photographic style takes time, experimentation and confidence.Storytelling is often more powerful than technical perfection.Creative limitations can encourage stronger, more imaginative photographs.Authentic images create deeper emotional connections than those that simply look impressive.Building a successful photography career means trusting your instincts rather than following trends.The most memorable photographs reflect your own perspective, not someone else's.Connect with AmyWebsiteInstagramFacebookSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson chats with pet, wildlife and creative nature photographer Philippa Huber.Based in Wiltshire, Philippa has built a successful photography business around her love of animals, creativity and beautiful printed artwork. But her journey has been anything but conventional.From learning darkroom techniques after moving to France and travelling the world, to life aboard a narrowboat and creating a thriving pet photography business, Philippa has always preferred to embrace opportunities rather than overthink them.Angela and Philippa discuss how selling wildlife prints at local markets eventually led to photographing dogs, and how one unexpected request helped shape the direction of her business. They also talk about the importance of printed photographs, balancing creativity with commercial work and why understanding clients is just as important as understanding your camera.Philippa shares how moving from a Nikon D750 to a Nikon Z8 transformed her pet photography and explains why knowing your equipment inside out gives her the confidence to work instinctively.The Six From SheClicks questions bring even more insight, covering everything from life on a canal boat and dream commissions to photographing energetic dogs and adapting to different situations.Above all, Philippa's story is a reminder that you don't have to know exactly where you're heading before you begin. Sometimes the best things happen when you stop waiting, trust yourself and simply give it a go.TakeawaysYou don't have to know exactly where you're heading before taking the first step. Experience often teaches more than endless planning.Starting with the equipment and knowledge you already have is often enough to begin moving forward.Understanding what your audience or clients value is just as important as developing your own creative style.Taking time to photograph purely for enjoyment can help keep creativity alive and prevent burnout.Learning your camera and refining your technical skills gives you the confidence to adapt to different situations.Staying open to opportunities and being willing to try something new can lead to unexpected and rewarding directions.Connect with PhilippaWebsiteInstagramFacebookSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with interdisciplinary artist and photographer Sujata Setia about storytelling, trauma, healing and the role photography can play in creating connection.Sujata’s work explores social justice, gender-based violence, identity and lived experience. Originally from India, she moved to the UK in 2009 and began her photographic journey while navigating new motherhood and an uncertain future. What started as photographing her daughter soon became a way to process emotion, communicate and rebuild connection.Angela and Sujata discuss how photography became a bridge between mother and child, before exploring the evolution of Sujata’s practice from family portraiture into deeply personal and socially engaged work. Sujata shares the emotional journey behind her award-winning project A Thousand Cuts, which won the Creative category at the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards.The conversation explores the responsibility of photographing sensitive subjects, the importance of working ethically with survivors and how visual beauty can encourage audiences to engage with difficult themes. Sujata also talks honestly about imposter syndrome, financial realities in the arts and the courage required to keep sharing meaningful work.Throughout the episode, Angela and Sujata reflect on vulnerability, storytelling and the belief that photography can help create understanding and change.This is an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation about using creativity to confront silence, process pain and connect with others through art.TakeawaysPhotography can become a powerful tool for communication when words feel difficult.Personal experiences often shape the most meaningful creative work.Vulnerability and honesty can help build trust with subjects.Difficult stories deserve thoughtful, ethical and respectful representation.Creative careers often evolve in unexpected directions over time.Persistence and courage matter more than waiting to feel confident.Connect with SujataWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailKylee Ann joins Angela Nicholson for this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast to share how she built a thriving photography business from humble beginnings, while raising a family and learning everything through experience.Kylee is a photographer, educator and business mentor who has created a successful global photography brand specialising in commercial and product photography. Known for her honest and practical approach to marketing, systems and sustainable growth, she now helps photographers streamline their businesses and build careers that genuinely fit around their lives.In this conversation, Kylee talks about receiving her first DSLR camera after her fiancé sold his Xbox to buy it for her, photographing her first wedding in auto mode for just $200 and gradually learning how to turn photography from a hobby into a profitable business.Angela and Kylee discuss the realities of balancing photography with family life, why systems and organisation matter so much and how photographers can avoid getting trapped in cycles of overthinking and self-doubt. Kylee also explains how she built a successful associate photography team, transitioned from weddings into commercial work and created a business model that allows her to work from her backyard studio while supporting international brands.Throughout the episode, Kylee shares valuable advice for photographers at every stage of their journey, from marketing consistently and building confidence to focusing on small daily wins instead of setbacks.This episode is full of encouragement, practical business advice and honest insights into what it really takes to build a long-term photography career while staying true to your personal priorities. Takeaways Small consistent actions often create bigger long-term success than waiting for perfect opportunities.  Building systems and workflows can make photography businesses far more sustainable.  Confidence grows through experience and action, not by waiting until you feel ready.  Consistent marketing helps photographers stay visible and attract new clients.  Success in photography does not have to follow a traditional path or lifestyle.  Focusing on daily wins instead of setbacks can improve both mindset and motivation.Connect with KyleeWebsiteFacebookInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with five exceptional photographers recognised at the Sony World Photography Awards 2026.Featuring Dafna Talmor, Elle Leontiev, Isadora Romero, María Fernanda García Freire and Vilma Taubo, this episode offers an insight into the stories behind their award-winning images.Dafna Talmor, winner of the Landscape category, shares how she transforms archived negatives into imagined environments, embracing experimentation and unpredictability in her creative process. Open Photographer of the Year Elle Leontiev recounts the extraordinary experience of capturing her striking portrait of a volcanologist on Mount Yasur, even as her camera failed mid-shoot.Isadora Romero, winner of the Environment category, explores the relationship between people and forests, blending science, culture and photography to challenge how we perceive nature. María Fernanda García Freire reflects on motherhood, memory and cultural identity through her deeply personal project inspired by her son’s fascination with birds.Finally, Still Life winner Vilma Taubo discusses her thought-provoking series that reimagines everyday objects as symbols of protest, revealing the quiet but powerful ways images can communicate meaning.Throughout the episode, Angela also shares questions from the SheClicks community, sparking honest conversations about creativity, confidence, finding your voice and navigating the challenges of a photographic career.This inspiring episode highlights not only the diversity of contemporary photography but also the passion, resilience and curiosity that drive these award-winning women.Connect with the PhotographersDafna TalmorWebsiteInstagramElle LeontievWebsiteInstagramIsadora RomeroWebsiteInstagramMaría Fernanda García FreireWebsiteInstagramVilma TauboWebsiteInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with adventure photographer and filmmaker Grace Taylorson Smith Pritchard (AKA Grace T.S.P) about building a photography career by following what you genuinely love.Grace’s route into photography wasn’t straightforward. With a background in law and marine biology, she didn’t begin with a clear plan to work in the creative industry. Instead, it was through travel, scuba diving and documenting her experiences that she picked up a camera and started to explore photography more seriously.What makes Grace’s story so relatable is that she didn’t try to force a niche. Instead, she photographed the things she already loved, including climbing, mountain biking and outdoor adventure. That authenticity naturally led to opportunities, from editorial features in adventure magazines to commercial photography work with outdoor brands.In this conversation, Grace shares what it really takes to work as an adventure photographer. From shooting in extreme environments to managing the physical demands of working in the mountains, she explains why skills, preparation and experience are just as important as creativity.Angela and Grace also discuss the balance between still photography and filmmaking, how personal projects can lead to paid work and why changing camera systems helped her rediscover her creative spark.This episode is a great listen for anyone looking to build a photography career in a way that feels true to them. Grace’s journey is a reminder that you don’t need a traditional path. Sometimes the best way forward is simply to start by photographing what you love most.Connect with GraceWebsiteInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson is joined by wildlife photographer and safari leader Ann Aveyard. Ann’s journey into photography is anything but conventional. After a career as a nurse in the NHS, she discovered photography later in life, initially picking up a camera to document a once-in-a-lifetime safari trip. That experience sparked a passion that would go on to shape her future.Ann shares how she went from photographing wildlife for enjoyment to running a successful wedding photography business, before ultimately returning to her true love of wildlife photography. She reflects on the turning point during the COVID pandemic that led her to step away from weddings and fully embrace life behind the lens in nature.Throughout the conversation, Ann talks about the importance of patience, observation and understanding animal behaviour in order to capture meaningful images. She explains why she avoids chasing a single ‘perfect’ shot and instead focuses on being present and open to whatever unfolds in front of her.Ann also discusses what keeps drawing her back to Kenya and the Masai Mara, describing the ever-changing landscape, incredible wildlife encounters and the magic of sharing those moments with others. As a safari leader, she finds immense joy in helping photographers experience these environments for the first time and develop their own skills and confidence.This episode is full of insight and inspiration for anyone interested in wildlife photography, travel, or simply reconnecting with nature through their camera.Takeaways Patience is one of the most important skills in wildlife photography  Understanding animal behaviour helps you anticipate meaningful moments  Letting go of the perfect shot can lead to more authentic images  You do not need to travel far to find opportunities to photograph wildlife  A career in photography doesn't have to follow a traditional path  Sharing knowledge and experiences can be just as rewarding as creating imagesConnect with AnnWebsiteInstagramFacebookSupport the show