Getting to Know - Twirly Girl Photography

Company Name: Twirly Girl Photography

Interview with: Harriet Letheren

Location / Coverage: Wiltshire/South West

How did the business get started and who works at Twirly Girl Photography?

Twirly Girl Photography started by accident really! After getting a camera and playing around with some friends I started getting asked to take photos for people who had seen my work. It had always been a dream to have my own photography company, but I didn’t for one second think it would happen as quickly as it did. I now have my own studio with loads of shoots and weddings to look forward to.

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

I originally started on the other side of the camera as a competitor in pageants. When I retired from that I found I really missed being involved with the camera in one way or another. I’d always had an eye for photography and was very artistic in school, but it was only when I picked up a camera for the first time that I realised it was what I was meant to do. I just never dreamed it could become a full-time profession.

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

The first time I felt I had a flair for photography was when I was on holiday in Mallorca when I was 18, and took an interesting picture of a tree on the beach — I just wanted to show it off to the world!

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

I currently work across the south west, but would love to broaden my horizons and combine an element of travel with photography.

Why are you called Twirly Girl Photography?

When I was trying to come up with a business name I spent weeks rattling my brain for a creative spin. It was after all that time trying to think of a name that I was twirling my hair (as I usually do when thinking hard) and the name jumped out — it’s just me!

Describe your photography studio

My new studio is very relaxing and chilled. It’s on a farm with ducks, geese, chickens and deer that are free to roam; children, especially, love it, but so do the adults. One of the fantastic advantages of the studio is the ability to shoot in the studio and then go outside to the beautiful ponds and old barn for a change of backdrop. The studio is filled with props and backdrops and is so airy and bright — this gives the ability to work a lot with natural light.

What do you feel sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

I’m not a traditional wedding photographer. I like to get to know my couples and make their wedding photography personal to them. I am often told by my wedding clients that their guests thought I was a friend of the couple as I fit in so well.

How would you describe your photography style?

Creative, unique and tailored to the couple.

What packages do you offer and what are your rates?

I have two packages to offer my wedding clients — Gold and Platinum. Rates range from £725 to £900 for a full day.

What is the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is being asked to capture such fantastic moments in a couple’s life. I love seeing my couples get married and declare their love for one another, and then seeing their family grow as I get to photograph their kids as they come into the world.

Do you have a specialist area of photography?

I specialise in wedding and baby photography.

Who/what are your influences?

I absolutely love The Wedding Community for inspiration! I’m also a Pinterest addict which gives me all kinds of ideas on how to expand my repertoire. I am checking out all sorts of photography from around the world, of all types — anything can provide inspiration for what I do.

Do you have a favourite picture that you have taken (If you can choose!)?

This is my favourite image, taken in the St. Johns Alley in Devizes. This is a fantastic lane containing some of the oldest buildings in the town, and provided a spectacular backdrop for the image.

What is your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

My top tip for choosing a wedding photographer is simple — get to know them! You will spend a large part of the day with this person and if you don’t get along with them it could really affect your day.

Random question… What do you do to unwind?

To unwind I like to take my beautiful 18-month-old daughter on a walk to find the ducks at the local pond. Seeing the joy in her face as she feeds them is the best stress relief you can find.