It’s that time of week again where I like to spread some festive joy. This time round I get to give you an introduction to Sue Todd, from Sue Todd Photography.
Tell me a little bit about you, your business and what you do…
I’ve just had my second birthday as Sue Todd Photography, I think I prefer that age birthday to my current one, but let’s not go there! I’ve wanted to do photography full-time since I first had my own camera when I was just 13, but despite getting my first pro cameras when I was 18 and being out every moment possible shooting, life intervened as it does and I suddenly found myself in computing! Undeterred I kept going and gradually got to introduce more and more photography into the day job, it helps if you’re the boss. The plan was that I would step away in time and finally do what I wanted. Two years ago I finally got there and I’ve just loved every moment since.
I do mainly commercial photography, so my days tend to be about thinking creatively with/for clients about who their target audience is and what approach to take with the production of images. Sometimes it’s a case of needing images on pure white or black backgrounds, but sometimes lifestyle images are needed. Sometimes I’m needed to shoot images showing people at work doing what they do best or perhaps headshots are required. I love the variety of my work and I get to see and handle some fabulous products and meet some wonderful people. Sometimes I get to shoot food and drinks and get to taste them too! Cocktails and cameras are not a good combination though so I tend to have to forgo that pleasure until at least the set is what they term a ‘wrap’!
Family shoots are still something I really enjoy though and I’m working on some new ideas here for next year.
What made you decide it was time to take that big leap and start your own business?
I’d been self-employed for about 12 years already, and that came about because I was spending 12 hours a day away from home, which wasn’t what I’d signed up for when I got married and had children. The move to photography was the final step to living my dream.
What’s the ONE thing you absolutely love about being self employed?
The freedom. I decide what I’m doing when and I love that.
Was there a moment in your business journey when you realised you’d made the right decision to go it alone?
I think that most times I pick the camera up and start a session.
What are your hopes and dreams for your business in 2017?
For 2017 I plan to really grow my business, I’ve a heap of new ideas and plans and I’m really excited about the possibilities. Watch this space? Or better still, give me a shout and we’ll make some terrific images together.
Are there any entrepreneurs that you follow who inspire you and why?
I like Richard Branson, his success has been fantastic. Steve Jobs for his sheer determination and I loved Anita Roddick for what she achieved with Body Shop.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
A photographer!
Christmas is just around the corner – how are you celebrating it this year?
Quietly at home with my husband and our cocker spaniel Ted. We’re hoping to see the boys at some point but just having some down time and a relax while we finish off our plans for 2017.
Website: www.suetoddphotography.co.uk | Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SueToddPhotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suetoddphotography/
Lovely to find out a little more about a lovely and talented lady!
Thanks for your comment Clare! Definitely. I have a few more ladies to introduce over the next few weeks too 🙂