STELLA
I have always had a passion for photography to capture real-life moments and to engage with people.
At the age of 16, I served a three-year apprenticeship at Handford Photography - a Surrey based photographic studio. I learned all aspects of photography – from aesthetics to traditional photographic skills and techniques. In 1979 I was awarded a City and Guilds qualification in photography. I freelanced for a few years before getting married and having a family in the mid-‘80s.
Through a lot of adversity and three small children to provide for I took the opportunity to realise my dream of starting my own photographic studio. This was the birth of SMS Creative Photography in 1997, which my three (adult) children refer to as my 4th child!
I’m overjoyed to be able to connect with so many families – to be a small part of their ever-changing lives – preserving precious moments for them to enjoy now and for future generations to admire. This gives me a huge sense of fulfillment and satisfaction!
My days are creatively diverse, one day I can be up to my ankles in mud photographing on farmland and the next day at a luxurious Mayfair address photographing the latest Ferrari.
It was through the relationships I built with my customers that opportunities arose to explore new commissions including international assignments away from the high street. In 2012 to cater for this market - 'Stella' - my luxury lifestyle photography brand was born – photographing classic and supercars exclusively for private clients and businesses. Collaborating with the finest British craftsmen to produce tailored books and wall art – creating provenance and a legacy. To find out more please visit 'Stella'.
Over the years, as well as photographing families, their homes & gardens and special occasions, I have enjoyed varied and exciting commissions too such as covering the World Cruise on the QE2 for a limited edition book; photographing Boyzone and Cher opening the Harrods sales; the infamous Jeremy Clarkson for an exclusive book on Ferrari; Metallica and Iron Maiden at the Sonisphere Festival and most recently behind the scenes at the British Grand Prix.
My role within SMS Creative Photography continues as Photographer and Creative Director.
Full member of the Association of Photographers
FIONA
I grew up in Oxted and met Stella when she took our family portrait when the studio opened in 1997.
I graduated from university with a BA Hons in Textiles and Surface Design, where photography was the basis of all my work.
In 2003 I met Stella again when she took my portrait for me to give to my new boyfriend (now my husband).
Soon after, I started assisting with wedding photography and then took on a full-time role in 2004 as a Junior Photographer. Alongside this role I went to college to study Post Production and evolved my position as a finisher and retoucher, which I love.
Stella and SMS Creative Photography have been a huge part of my life, including my wedding day, the birth of my 2 children and three house moves!
My passions include – dressmaking, baking, knitting, dog grooming and of course being a wife and mummy.
Coincidentally I share the same birthday as SMS Creative Photography, 10th February, I’m older though!
I am very proud to be a part of SMS Creative Photography - I love my role as Digital Artist to make sure your photographs receive our expert attention to detail.