Photographer Kathryn Edwards

—First and foremost – whom can you name as the best photographer in Nottingham, United Kingdom? :)

—Well that would be Kathryn Edwards of course! ;-)

—Are you photogenic?

—Unusually for a photographer I quite like having my picture taken. Although I wouldn't say I am photogenic. I tend to just grin inanely at the camera or pout! haha! My profile picture is a rare photo my photographer friend caught of me off guard. Always the best ones!

—How did you get in the photography industry?

—Quite by accident really. It is a long story. But the short version is – I was 30, and the guest at many weddings that year, and sort of discovered photography during that year. It was a few years later that I decided to give wedding photography a go, and I have never looked back!

—What are the most important components of a good photo in your opinion?

—Number one is the people in the photo looking happy and relaxed. And second (only just!) is the light! I am always seeking out the best light for a photo!

—Do you love traveling?

—I do love travelling and visiting new places yes.

—What do you like most about your profession?

—The couples I get to meet along the way. I always feel like I work with the best couples! I love getting to know each and every one.

—What do you like least about your profession?

—All the cake I have to eat. Its terrible for the waist line!

—What will be the future of photography?

—Well, I hope it will always be something that is valued but fashions and styles and cameras will always be changing. I have just moved over to mirrorless, which I think is taking over from DSLR. He kit is so much lighter, which is great!

—What is special in the photography genre you specialise at?

—he people at the centre of it. He number one thing that makes a wedding are the people there! If you are in love and surrounded by the people you love, then its got to be the most special day ever! And I am truly lucky to get to experience that regularly!

—How do you handle criticism?

—Hmmm... Next!

—Are there any trends in photography?

—Yes always! I try to steer clear from trends. But you can't help but look back at your photos, and go, oh that was a thing in 2014 or whatever!! So I guess it is difficult to avoid completely.

—What should be the criteria for a customer to choose a photographer?

—Firstly their work. You need to imagine yourself in their photos. Secondly, clicking with them on a personal level. If you can meet or chat to your photographer before you book, you will know if this is someone you want around you all day.

—What details that usually pass unnoticed can a photographer notice?

—Good light! An unusual backdrop (I am a sucker for a brick wall!) Anything with leading lines or depth of field. Sometimes, it is not always the obvious place to shoot. But if the light is right, I could be perfect.

—What influences the value of a photo? What are its elements?

—Light, natural smiles, good composition.

—Who do you want to take photos of?

—Michael Stipe and/or Richard E Grant (can I have two?) I am a big Withnail and I fan.

—What is the most impressive moment in your life?

—I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro!

—If you were a cartoon, book or movie character, who would you be and why?

—Hmm... I'll come back to this!

—Who inspires you in your life and why?

—My mum. Because she is great!

—How do you define success? How do you measure it?

—Being happy. Making other people happy.

—Would you rather be liked or respected?

—liked

—How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

—Attending photography workshops and conferences on a yearly basis. here is always something new to learn and someone new to inspire you.

—Whose work has influenced you most as a photographer?

—Lisa Devlin was my mentor when I first started out. So a huge influence.

—What do you want to say with your photographs?

—I want to make people smile.

—What motivates you to continue taking pictures?

—The couples I work with.

—If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?

—Nothing. No regrets. Every decision you make, even the bad ones lead you to where you are. And your future is an open books with no mistakes in it yet!

—What about life on other planets?

—Must be!

—Who do you have no respect for?

—rude people

—What do you do in your spare time?

—Dance and read. Not at the same time.

—What's the side of you that the public never sees?

—I suppose I am quite shy, although I come across as an extrovert. I enjoy my own company, and need my own space sometimes.

—When are you completely satisfied with your work?

—When I look back on it, over time.

—Do you believe in the traditional roles for men and women?

—No

—Do you like dogs or cats?

—dogs!!!

—The best thing in life is:

—chocolate!

—The most annoying thing in life is:

—Chocolate makes you fat

—Is there anything around you that you would like to change?

—Well, don't get me started! Because my political views might put you off! But certainly our relationship to the environment and the natural world! But I'll leave it at that for now. I might want to change the government.

—What would you like to change in yourself?

—Be more tidy

—What would you like to change in the world?

—see above!

—Can you give a few tips for photographers who are just starting out?

—Shoot shoot shoot. Second shoot. Be nice. Get to know other photographers.

—If you are called to shoot a movie, what genre will it be?

—Rom Com

—Tomorrow I will go and do...

—some Lindy Hop dancing.