Stepping in Front of the Lens | My Self Portrait Session as a Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Photographer
If you’ve ever said, “I hate having my photo taken,” trust me, I completely get it.
As a wedding and portrait photographer based in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, I’m usually the one hiding behind the camera, quietly capturing everyone else’s real, candid moments. But recently, I turned the camera on myself for a self portrait session. And wow, it reminded me just how vulnerable and awkward it can feel to be on the other side of the lens.
Nottinghamshire Photographer Lauren Heaton of Marley & The Wildlings Photography
So, why on earth did I do it?
Because You Deserve to Know Who’s Behind the Camera
When you book me as your photographer, whether it’s for your wedding, a soul session, or a relaxed family shoot, you’re inviting me into some of the most personal and emotional moments of your life. That’s a big deal. And I think it’s important that you feel a genuine connection with the person behind the camera. Not just someone with a fancy camera and a decent portfolio, but a real human who gets you.
That’s why I decided to share a bit of myself, not just through words, but through images too.
The Awkward Reality? I Am Not a Natural in Front of the Camera
Let me be honest, the second I set up the tripod and remote, I wanted to vomit.
My brain went into overdrive. Where do I look? What do I do with my hands? Why does my face do that thing when I smile? The same thoughts so many of my clients have shared with me over the years suddenly became very real.
It made me squirm, it made me self conscious, and it made me remember exactly how important it is to create a calm, pressure free environment for the people I photograph.
This experience has only deepened my empathy for every bride, groom, parent, or individual who tells me they’re camera shy. You’re not alone, and I promise, I’m not judging you. In fact, I’m right there with you.
The Power of Being Seen (Even When It’s Uncomfortable)
As awkward as it felt at times, the self portrait session also gave me something beautiful, the chance to see myself as I truly am.
Not perfectly posed or overly polished, just real. Honest. A bit messy. A bit soft around the edges. A woman juggling life, business, chaos, creativity, and emotions, all while doing her best to connect with others through storytelling.
That’s the same kind of authenticity I strive to capture in every session I do, whether it’s a countryside wedding in Derbyshire, a windswept soul session in the Nottinghamshire hills, or a quiet family moment at home. Real moments. Real emotions. Real people.
Why This Matters for You
If you’re someone who dreads having your photo taken, I want you to know:
You don’t need to be a model. You don’t need to “know your angles.” You don’t need to fake a smile or squeeze into a version of yourself that doesn’t feel right.
What you do need is someone who gets it. Someone who knows how scary it can be and who will gently guide you through it with warmth, patience, and zero judgement. As a Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire photographer who’s just stepped (reluctantly) into the subject’s shoes, I promise to meet you where you are, with compassion, not expectation.
Photography for the Imperfect, the Awkward, and the Beautifully Real
This self portrait session wasn’t about creating Instagram worthy perfection. It was about showing up as myself, awkwardness and all, and owning the vulnerability that comes with being seen.
And that’s exactly what I want to offer you, too.
Whether you’re planning your wedding, longing for a soulful portrait session just for you, or simply want to capture your family in all its glorious, chaotic realness, I’ll bring the same energy I brought to my own self portrait shoot: relaxed, non judgemental, honest, and 100% focused on you, just as you are.
Derbyshire Photographer Lauren Heaton | Marley & The Wildlings Photography
Let’s Create Something Real Together
If you’re based in Nottinghamshire or Derbyshire and looking for a photographer who understands what it feels like to be camera shy, I’d love to chat.
My approach is gentle and documentary-style, no stiff poses or forced smiles, just meaningful, relaxed photography that reflects you.
Because the best photos aren’t the perfect ones, they’re the ones that feel like home.
Lauren x
Contact Me to book your session, or check out My Work