Kaisa Sirén: Letting Go of Control in Creative Photography

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson speaks with Kaisa Sirén, a photographic artist from Finnish Lapland, whose work is rooted in intentional camera movement (ICM). With a background in photojournalism, Kaisa shares how she moved away from traditional documentary work to embrace abstract photography, allowing herself the freedom to explore emotion, movement and mood.Based inside the Arctic Circle, Kaisa draws inspiration from Lapland’s eight seasons and the unique quality of light each one brings. She reveals why the polar night is her favourite time to shoot and how nature’s changes guide her creative process.Kaisa also discusses her journey from experimenting with ICM on a foggy trip to Iceland to becoming a full-time artist, teacher and gallery owner. Her work encourages photographers to let go of control, embrace surprise and allow creativity to lead.Angela and Kaisa talk about the challenges photographers face when learning ICM, why processing matters, and how to build confidence when showing your work. With warmth and honesty, Kaisa shares her experiences of exhibiting internationally, opening her own gallery, and balancing freelance photojournalism with artistic expression.Whether you’re curious about ICM, looking to grow as a photographer or simply seeking creative motivation, this episode is filled with insight and inspiration from a life shaped by light, landscape and artistic freedom.TakeawaysLetting go of technical perfection can open the door to genuine creative expression.Abstract photography encourages personal storytelling beyond literal images.Nature, seasons and light are powerful sources of creative inspiration.Building confidence is essential when exhibiting or presenting your work.Experimentation and play are key when learning new photography techniques.Managing creative energy means learning to say no to projects that don’t align.Connect with KaisaWebsiteInstagram (ICM)Instagram (Art)FacebookSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson speaks with the inspirational Ami Vitale, a renowned photojournalist, Nikon ambassador and passionate conservation storyteller.Ami’s images are known for their emotional power, from the moving final moments of Sudan, the last male Northern White Rhino, to her long-term work in China documenting panda conservation. Her commitment to telling meaningful stories has taken her to conflict zones and conservation areas across the globe, always with a deep respect for the communities and wildlife she photographs.In this conversation, Ami shares how photography became her tool for connection and transformation. She opens up about the challenges she faced breaking into the industry, the weight of ethical storytelling and the persistence needed to tell stories that matter. She discusses the importance of building trust with subjects, allowing stories to evolve and how empathy lies at the heart of every frame she captures.Listeners will also hear her thoughts on how to create impact through photography, the danger of AI-generated images, the growing problem of over-tourism and the importance of lifting up the next generation of photographers.Whether you are an aspiring photojournalist or someone who uses photography to explore the world, Ami’s journey offers encouragement, wisdom and practical advice.Takeaways Building trust and genuine relationships is key to impactful storytellingIt's important to allow stories to evolve rather than arrive with fixed ideasPhotography can connect people, build empathy and inspire changeLong-term projects offer deeper meaning and insightConfidence and persistence are vital when navigating a creative careerFind purpose and ethical grounding in your photographic workConnect with AmiWebsiteInstagramNikonThis episode is supported by Nikon, a world-leading provider of imaging products and services. Nikon’s Regional Director, Charlotte Kemsley says: “At Nikon we pride ourselves on empowering photographers to create images and videos that inspire. We are honoured to be partnering with SheClicks and share their ambition of increasing the visibility of women in all aspects of photography.”Support the show

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson speaks with photographer and director Madeleine Penfold about her powerful journey into the world of photography and how she uses her craft to drive representation and social change.Mads reflects on growing up without seeing herself reflected in the media and how that experience shaped her desire to create the kinds of images she longed for as a child. From her early years as a self-described tomboy in Manchester to discovering her identity and building confidence through university, Mads opens up about how photography became her voice.Although she studied business at university, Mads always had a camera in hand and a deep curiosity for people. She shares how teaching photography at a summer camp in the US helped her realise the impact of visual media on self-worth and led her to make a lasting promise—to only create images that matter.Angela and Mads explore how she broke into sports photography almost by chance, and how working with top footballers became a stepping stone to championing representation in the women’s game. From photographing Premier League players to advocating for proper visibility of women athletes, Mads discusses the power of storytelling, intuition on set, and the importance of building trust with her subjects.Whether she’s on set with the Lionesses or documenting change in Gambia, Mads brings a deeply human approach to her work. This conversation is full of wisdom, warmth and practical insights for any photographer wanting to make an impact through visual storytelling.Follow Madeleine’s journey as she creates the world she needed to see - and helps others see themselves in it too.TakeawaysYour personal story can become your creative purpose – Let your own experiences guide the kind of work you want to create.Photography can be a tool for social change – Use your work to challenge stereotypes and increase representation.Success isn’t linear – A squiggly career path can still lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.Trust is everything when photographing people – Building rapport and respect makes all the difference.Inclusivity starts behind the scenes – A diverse creative team leads to better, more authentic storytelling.You don’t need formal training to succeed – Passion, practice, and persistence are just as valuable as a degree.Connect with MadsWebsiteInstagramSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson is joined by British street photographer Dawn Eagleton, who has built a strong reputation for her honest and captivating street portraits. Dawn's approach is rooted in connection, authenticity and quiet confidence, making her images not only visually compelling but emotionally resonant.Dawn shares how she first discovered her passion for photographing people candidly in public spaces and how her instincts led her towards a style defined by raw, unposed portraits. Throughout the conversation, she talks about how she overcame the fear of photographing strangers, the subtle cues she uses to read body language and why respectful interaction is often more powerful than asking for permission.As Angela and Dawn explore the challenges and rewards of street portraiture, they also discuss the importance of eye contact, how to capture people in their natural state and how Dawn built up the courage to approach subjects in a calm and open way. Her thoughts on authenticity, presence and emotional awareness offer helpful insights for any photographer looking to work more confidently in public.Later in the episode, Dawn shares the story behind her first self-published book Through the Glass, a collection of portraits taken through windows that reflect both physical distance and emotional proximity.This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about street photography, looking to build confidence behind the lens, or interested in photographing people in a more honest and respectful way.Connect with DawnWebsiteInstagramFacebookTakeawaysConfidence grows with practice – street photography becomes easier the more you face the initial discomfort and keep shooting.Authenticity matters – unposed, candid moments can tell more powerful stories than staged portraits.Connection is key – a small gesture like a smile or nod can create mutual understanding and respect.Learn to read body language – understanding how people react helps you decide when to photograph or walk away.Your presence affects the picture – how you carry yourself influences how your subject responds, even if they don’t notice you at first.Photography is more than the image – it's also about the moment, the experience and the personal growth that comes with it.FujifilmThis 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 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