Jessica McGovern: Finding Purpose Through Photography and Animals

Send us a textJessica McGovern started getting involved with photography at the age of 14 as a way to channel her emotions and find her place in the world. She was drawn to photography because it allowed her to use her hands and her brain, and it provided a physical and mental outlet. Jess started teaching photography organically, answering questions and sharing her knowledge in online communities. She also began teaching in-person workshops and offering one-on-one mentoring. Jessica has won numerous accolades for her photography, which has helped boost her confidence and establish her credibility in the industry. However, she acknowledges the pressure and potential negative impact of competitions on mental health and advises photographers to seek feedback and take breaks when needed. Jess McGovern shares her personal experiences with miscarriage and her journey in photography. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of communication with clients, and the different camera systems for animal photography. She also talks about the Tog Spot community and the benefits of working with dogs and horses.TakeawaysPhotography can be a powerful emotional outlet and a way to find one's place in the world.Teaching photography can happen organically through sharing knowledge and answering questions in online communities.Accolades and recognition can boost confidence and establish credibility in the industry.Competitions can be both rewarding and challenging, and it's important to prioritize mental health and seek feedback when needed. Miscarriage can be a traumatic and isolating experience, and it's important to have support and understanding.Effective communication with clients is crucial in photography.Working with dogs and horses can be rewarding and challenging, and understanding their behaviour is key to capturing great photos.Connect with JessicaWebsiteThat Tog SpotFacebookInstagramSonyThis podcast is supported by Sony, maker of class-leading camera equipment and cutting-edge technologies – like the Global Shutter in the Alpha 9 III which won the SheClicks 2024 Award for Innovation.Support the show

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson is joined by Dr Denise Maxwell, a trailblazing multi-genre photographer and the creative force behind Lensi Photography. Known for her versatility, Denise has photographed everyone from Barack Obama to Usain Bolt and covered iconic events like the BAFTAs and the Commonwealth Games. Her career spans sports, fashion, journalism, and event photography, showcasing her ability to adapt and excel across genres.Denise shares her journey from working in public health to becoming a professional photographer after redundancy from the NHS. With a lifelong passion for capturing moments, she moved into photography by combining practice, determination and a commitment to learning. In this episode, Denise highlights the importance of transferable skills, explaining how techniques honed in one genre, such as sports photography, can elevate her work in others, like weddings or corporate events. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how Denise balances a thriving career with personal projects that fuel her creativity. From her celebrated redhead project, which garnered wide recognition, to her ongoing work on themes like breastfeeding and menstruation, Denise demonstrates how personal photography can lead to professional opportunities. She passionately discusses the need for photographers to continue learning, experimenting, and pushing their creative boundaries to stay fresh and inspired.This episode is packed with practical advice for photographers at all stages of their journey. Denise encourages aspiring photographers to practise relentlessly, master their gear and embrace the challenges of stepping outside their comfort zones. She also offers a candid glimpse into her approach to goal-setting and maintaining work-life balance.Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting out, Denise’s wisdom and enthusiasm for her craft will leave you inspired.  TakeawaysCapture moments that will matter in the future.Setting goals is crucial for growth.Building a client base starts with your immediate network.Personal projects can keep the passion alive and lead to commercial work.Multi-genre photography keeps the work exciting.Transferable skills enhance your photography.Practice is essential for photographers to succeed.Emerging photographers should know their equipment inside out.There are many genres of photography beyond weddings and portraits.Continuous learning and practice are vital in photography.Connect with DeniseWebsiteInstagramFacebookXLinkedInCEWEThank you to CEWE, Europe’s leading photo printing company, for supporting this podcast. CEWE offers an extensive range of high-quality photo products, including the award-winning CEWE PHOTOBOOK.This festive season, why not surprise your loved ones with a truly unique gift? A CEWE PHOTOBOOK celebrates unforgettable moments, from cherished family gatherings to spontaneous snapshots and epic holidays. Give the gift of memories, beautifully presented – something personal that they’ll treasure forever.Support the show

Send us a textIn this conversation, Angela and Lisa discuss Lisa's transition from writing to photography, her experiences in travel photography and the evolution of her platform, The Wandering Lens. They explore the challenges of finding clients, the importance of research in travel photography and the rewarding nature of mentoring other photographers. In this engaging podcast, Lisa shares her journey as a travel photographer, discussing the global connections made possible through the internet, her experience as an OM System ambassador and the importance of environmental consciousness in travel photography. She offers practical tips for staying warm in cold climates, reflects on the challenges of travelling extensively and emphasises the significance of personal vision in photography. Lisa also provides insights on getting published and the importance of having a well-curated online presence while sharing her favourite camera bag and its importance in her travels.TakeawaysLisa's travel photography has shifted from cultural exploration to isolated landscapes.Self-taught photographers can develop unique styles outside of traditional training.Building a noticeable portfolio often requires creative approaches.Researching locations is crucial for capturing unique perspectives.Mentoring can help emerging photographers identify their potential clients.Photography is about creating one's vision, not just following rules.It's crucial to consider your carbon footprint while travelling.Wildlife photography can contribute to conservation efforts.Layering is essential for staying warm in cold climates.Avoid comparing your work to others on social media.Connect with LisaWebsiteThe Wandering LensThe Travel Photography ClubInstagramFacebookXOM SystemThis episode is supported by OM System. Empowering consumers and professionals alike with innovative digital cameras, lenses, audio recorders, and binoculars, OM System's precision optics and groundbreaking technology open up new possibilities for capturing life's most precious moments.Support the show

Send us a textIn this compelling episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson talks with photographer Roman Manfredi, whose work shines a light on underrepresented communities through the art of film photography. With a career that initially began at 16 as a darkroom assistant, but with many years away from the industry, Roman has developed a unique, impactful style that focuses on marginalised voices, particularly within working-class and LGBTQ+ communities. Their project We/Us, which portrays the butch and stud lesbian community in the UK, emerged from Roman’s realisation of the lack of British representation of these identities. Now archived in the Bishopsgate Institute, We/Us is a significant contribution to preserving LGBTQ+ narratives for future generations.Throughout the episode, Roman shares how film photography is not only their chosen medium but also a powerful tool for activism. Roman explains their choice of film as a conscious decision to embrace authenticity and imperfection, giving each photograph a rawness that digital media struggles to replicate. For Roman, film is not just a nostalgic art form; it’s a way to slow down, connect deeply with each subject and tell stories that capture genuine moments and emotions. This method fosters a slower, more intentional approach to photography that aligns with Roman’s mission to document the real, often unseen lives of individuals and communities.Roman also discusses their latest project, Fair Play, a documentary series capturing the women’s and non-binary development and reserve teams of the Clapton Community Football Club. This project, like much of their work, is an honest portrayal of strength and camaraderie within community sports. Roman’s dedication to preserving authenticity is apparent as they discuss the challenges and joys of capturing the essence of each subject, choosing black-and-white film to highlight the depth and grit of their experiences.Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or new to the art, this episode offers an inspiring look at how photography can amplify voices and document stories often left untold. Roman’s passion for film, their commitment to representation and their deep connection to visual storytelling make this a must-listen episode for anyone interested in the power of photography to drive social change.TakeawaysThe transition from digital to film photography was a significant turning point for RomanThe constraints of film photography can foster a deeper connection to the work.The project *We/Us* was born out of a need for representation in the queer communityIt's  important to archive work for future generationsSupport and mentorship can play a crucial role in their creative journey.Opportunities like the 70:15:40 project can be transformative.Aspiring photographers should apply for as many opportunities as possibleCreative themes can develop organically from personal experiencesImposter syndrome is common but can be an opportunity for growthBuilding connections with subjects is crucial for impactful photography Connect with RomanWebsiteInstagramMPBThis podcast is supported by MPB, the world's largest platform for used photography and videography kit. MPB has transformed the way people buy, sell and trade equipment, making photography more accessible, affordable and sustainable. MPB is proud to partner with SheClicks to help support women photographers and their work.Support the show

Send us a textKelly Brown shares her journey from a hobbyist to a professional photographer, beginning with her first encounter with photography while working on a construction site. This initial interest led her to selling photos at markets, before she eventually transitioned to wedding and family photography.She reflects on how learning photography with film shaped her, recalling the excitement of waiting to see the developed prints, and contrasts this with the advantages of digital photography. Kelly also talks about the addictive nature of photography, the importance of being selective in capturing images, and the challenges involved in the culling process.Kelly highlights how both positive and negative feedback have been crucial in pushing her to refine her skills. She also opens up about the challenges and anxieties she faced at the beginning of her career, including physical limitations and self-doubt. She explains her decision to specialise in newborn photography and the success she found in that niche. Additionally, Kelly shares her experiences of teaching photography, including the opportunity to lead a class on CreativeLive.She discusses her focus on education, especially in newborn photography, and describes how she shifted to online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding fulfilment in helping others reach their goals. Kelly emphasises the importance of mastering the technical aspects of photography and maintaining creative control. She also underscores the value of understanding the business side of photography, offering advice for running a successful photography business.Kelly encourages photographers to engage in personal projects to keep their passion and inspiration alive. She also highlights the importance of developing a unique style in newborn photography to stand out in the industry.TakeawaysLearning photography on film can teach valuable skills in composition and decisiveness.Digital photography allows for instant gratification and more efficient workflow.Being selective in capturing images can lead to a more impactful portfolio.Word-of-mouth referrals can be a powerful way to grow a photography business.Positive and negative feedback can both be valuable in pushing you to improve your skills.Focusing on a specific niche, like newborn photography, can lead to success and recognition.Teaching photography can be a rewarding way to share knowledge and connect with others in the industry. Learning the technical aspects of photography and having full creative control are essential for photographers.Understanding the business side of photography is crucial for running a successful photography business.Working on personal projects helps photographers maintain their passion and creativity.Developing a unique style is important in standing out in the newborn photography industry.Connect with KellyWebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeSupport the show

Send us a textVioleta Sofia, a portrait photographer, shares her journey into photography and her passion for capturing the essence of people. She discusses how her father sparked her interest in photography and how she found her niche in portrait photography.Violeta also talks about the importance of personal projects and how she balances them with commercial work. She shares her experience of networking and building connections in the industry, as well as her approach to funding her projects. She also discusses her involvement in the 70:15:40 project and her evolving project 'Hand Masters'. In addition, Violeta offers advice to other female photographers and emphasises the importance of applying for opportunities and not doubting oneself. She also highlights the need for more representation and inclusivity in photography competitions and projects. Violeta shares her process for her Hand Masters shoots, including using multiple devices and involving a team or her husband when possible. She expresses pride in having her work displayed at the National Portrait Gallery and using her voice to create change. TakeawaysPhotography can be a powerful medium for self-expression and connecting with others.Personal projects allow photographers to explore their passions and make a meaningful impact.Building connections and networking are essential for finding opportunities in the photography industry.Funding personal projects can be challenging but is necessary for creating impactful work.The 70:15:40 project provides support and recognition for female photographers.Photographers should apply for opportunities and don't doubt themselves.Advocate for more representation and inclusivity in photographyExperiment and have fun with your creative processBe proud of your achievements and use your voice to create changeDream big and aim to photograph influential figuresConnect with VioletaWebsiteFacebookInstagramXMPBThis podcast is supported by MPB, the world's largest platform for used photography and videography kit. MPB has transformed the way people buy, sell and trade equipment, making photography more accessible, affordable and sustainable. MPB is proud to partner with SheClicks to help support women photographers and their work.Support the show

Send us a textMary Jo Hoffman, a photographer and creator of the blog 'Still', discusses her journey from aeronautical engineer to photographer and the evolution of her daily photography project. She shares insights into her creative process, including the use of white backgrounds and the challenges of composition. Mary Jo Hoffman discusses her photography practice and techniques, including her choice of equipment and shooting settings. She emphasizes the importance of minimal equipment and using just enough to capture her subjects.Mary Jo also talks about the mindfulness practice that photography has become for her and the knowledge she has gained about her bio-region through her daily practice.  She also talks about her appreciation for the beauty in dead animals and the inspiration she draws from nature. Mary Jo shares her approach to choosing subjects on days with an abundance of options and discusses her influences, including photographer Karl Blossfeldt. She mentions her plans for future projects and the possibility of publishing another book.TakeawaysPhotography can be a creative outlet and a mindfulness practice.Working on a daily photography project can help develop skills and knowledge about one's environment.Choosing a specific background, such as white or black, can create a consistent aesthetic in a photography project.The art of composition can be challenging to master, but experimentation and practice can lead to growth.Travelling with a photography project requires planning and flexibility to ensure continuity.Editing techniques can be developed over time to achieve desired results in post-processing. Finding inspiration in nature can lead to unique and captivating images.Choosing subjects can be challenging on days with an abundance of options, but focusing on specific elements or themes can help narrow down the choices.Being open to influences and exploring different visual arts can enhance creativity and artistic growth.Planning future projects based on personal interest and enjoyment can lead to fulfilling and rewarding creative experiences.Connect with Mary JoWebsiteInstagramSupport the show

Send us a textTesni Ward got into photography after years of taking photos on family holidays. She switched to full-time photography after being made redundant at short-notice ahead of a dream holiday. Tesni specialises in wildlife photography because she enjoys being in nature and building relationships with the animals she photographs. She offers workshops and one-to-ones to share her knowledge and passion for photography. Tesni encourages photographers to explore and appreciate common species, as they can offer unique and rewarding photography opportunities. Tesni is an OM System Ambassador, which has had a positive impact on her career. During the podcast she discusses her transition to using Olympus cameras and the impact it has had on her career. She highlights the support and community she has found with Olympus (now OM System), as well as the emotional and technical benefits of using their equipment. Tesni also shares her experiences with wildlife photography, including the challenges of photographing badgers and hares in low-light conditions. She emphasises the importance of prioritising the welfare of wildlife and shares her approach to dealing with inappropriate behaviour from humans. Tesni expresses her desire to lead workshops on photographing badgers and her favourite locations for wildlife photography. She also discusses a project she had with swans on a local lake and her plans for future photography locations.TakeawaysTesni got into photography after booking a holiday and buying a big lens, shortly before being made redundant.She specialises in wildlife photography and enjoys building relationships with the animals she photographs.Tesni offers workshops and one-to-ones to share her knowledge and passion for photography.She encourages photographers to appreciate and photograph common species, as they can offer unique opportunities.Tesni is an OM System Ambassador, which has had a positive impact on her career. Photographing wildlife in low light can be challenging, but Tesni shares her strategies for capturing great shots.Tesni prioritizes the welfare of wildlife and approaches inappropriate behaviour from humans with education and diplomacy.She aspires to lead workshops on photographing badgers.Connect with TesniWebsiteInstagramFacebookOM SystemThis episode is sponsored by OM System. Empowering consumers and professionals alike with innovative digital cameras, lenses, audio recorders, and binoculars, OM System's precision optics and groundbreaking technology open up new possibilities for capturing life's most precious moments.Support the show

Send us a textShona Perkins, a photographer specialising in intentional camera movement (ICM) and seascapes, shares her journey into photography and her passion for capturing the beauty of the sea. She discusses the meditative state she enters when photographing waves and the importance of connecting with the beach. Shona also talks about the challenges of finding time for her own photography while running workshops and retreats. She emphasises the deep connections formed during these experiences and the joy of seeing others go on a photographic journey. Shona Perkins discusses the meticulous planning and organisation required to run successful photography workshops and retreats. She explains the importance of not just teaching photography skills, but also facilitating, engaging and motivating participants. Shona also talks about the evolution of her workshops and how she has adapted them to accommodate different weather conditions and participant preferences. She shares her excitement about her upcoming exhibition and the collaboration with another artist, Fee Dickson Reid. Shona also answers questions about staying comfortable on wide-open beaches, her editing process, and her favourite lenses for seascape ICM photography. She mentions Northumberland and Cornwall as her favourite UK coastal locations and expresses her desire to shoot ICM photography in Cape Cod, USA.TakeawaysPhotography can be a meditative and immersive experience.Connecting with the subject matter, such as the beach and the sea, can enhance the photographer's experience.Running workshops and retreats can be a rewarding way to share knowledge and create deep connections with other photographers.Finding a balance between personal photography and teaching can be challenging, but it's important to make time for one's own creative pursuits. Meticulous planning and organisation are essential for running successful photography workshops and retreats.Teaching photography skills is important, but facilitation, engagement, and motivation are equally crucial.Workshops and retreats evolve over time and can be adapted to accommodate different weather conditions and participant preferences.Collaborating with other artists can lead to exciting opportunities, such as joint exhibitions.Getting the best results in camera reduces the need for extensive editing.The 24-70mm lens is a favourite for seascape ICM photography.Northumberland and Cornwall are Shona's favourite UK coastal locations, and Cape Cod is on her bucket list for shooting ICM photography.Connect with ShonaWebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedinTikTokXCeweThank you to CEWE, Europe's leading photo printing company, for supporting this podcast. CEWE offers an extensive range of high-quality photo products, including the award-winning CEWE PHOTOBOOK. Creating a CEWE PHOTOBOOK of your amazing holiday captures the essence of your adventures in a tangible form. It is a timeless reminder of the unforgettable moments that would otherwise be just sitting on your hard drive or phone. A CEWE PHOTOBOOK allows you to revisit and cherish those moments for years to come. Visit cewe.co.uk for more inspiration.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson interviews the talented visual artist Paloma Tendero. Known for her unique exploration of themes such as heredity, illness, and identity, Tendero's work captivates audiences by blending photography and fine art to create powerful visual narratives.Paloma shares her artistic journey, beginning with her childhood fascination with photography. She recounts how her passion for capturing moments started when she was gifted a compact camera at the age of ten and later inherited an old SLR camera from her grandfather. These early experiences fuelled her love for photography and inspired her to pursue a degree in Fine Art and a Master’s in Photography.In this episode, Paloma delves into the personal experiences that shape her work, including her own health challenges and the impact of her family’s medical history. She explains how these experiences inspired her to explore the complex relationships between health and illness and the ways in which they intersect with identity.Paloma also discusses her current project, 'Shifting Bodies' which was developed as part of the 70:15:40 Project. This project challenges the conventional notion of health as the natural state and explores the dualities of the human experience. She shares her creative process, including the innovative use of expired film and sculptural elements, which add depth and texture to her work.Throughout the episode, Paloma Tendero provides valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by female photographers, highlighting the importance of confidence and persistence in pursuing artistic goals. Her advice to aspiring photographers encourages them to seek opportunities that align with their vision and to embrace failure as a vital part of growth and creativity.TakeawaysPhotography can be a cathartic process for exploring personal experiences and emotions.The creative process can involve both planning and freestyling, allowing for flexibility and spontaneity.Female photographers may face challenges in promoting themselves and putting their work out there, but programs and competitions targeted at women can provide extra encouragement.Photographing oneself can present challenges and a remote cable or an assistant is useful depending on the specific requirements of the projectPaloma's project and image titles and captions are often developed after the images are created, but in some cases, they may be determined beforehand to guide the creative process.Connect with PalomaWebsiteInstagramMPBThis podcast is supported by MPB, the world's largest platform for used photography and videography kit. MPB has transformed the way people buy, sell and trade equipment, making photography more accessible, affordable and sustainable. MPB is proud to partner with SheClicks to help support women photographers and their work.Support the show