Hey! I’m Christy, I have a wild toddler named Piper and I left my job in 2021 to start my business Little Lily Photography so that I could be more present as she grows. I’ve been a photographer for 9 years now and spent most of those working for other local studios, it’s the only career I’ve ever known and I feel so grateful for my journey and the opportunities I’ve had.

Last October I attended Gather to Grow. I have been training non-stop for 9 years but I can tell you, hand on heart, I have never learned so much business like I have from these ladies. 

I honestly don’t think I’d be opening a studio if it wasn’t for Gather to Grow and the self belief i gained from it! It’s LIFE CHANGING! 

Describe your photography style in 3 words:

Earthy, sentimental, authentic.

How did your photography business journey begin:

I actually started with an apprenticeship at a studio, earning a whopping £2.20 an hour but the training throughout the years whilst working for others has been invaluable!

What was your biggest struggle in your business journey?

I think the jump from being employed to self employed has been the hardest part, creating my own brand and building my own client base was a harder hill to climb than I thought it would be. And the dreaded imposter syndrome!

How do you balance a busy business whilst taking care of your mental health and avoiding burn out?

I ensure that a set amount of days in the week are for working and shooting, other days are strictly mine where I’ll head out on family adventures with my two year old, catch up on house work or do something for myself. I also work a lot after bedtime so I don’t feel too much mum guilt!

What inspires your creativity:

Motherhood & connection, always.

Do you have any words of wisdom for anyone starting out in their business journey?

Put your blinkers on, focus on your journey alone and create what your heart desires. If you enjoy it, that’s all that matters. Forget about what everyone else is doing!

When you’re not working what are you doing?

To be honest my brain doesn’t stop, if I’m not working I’m probably thinking about that email I haven’t replied to  

What are you listening to whilst you’re editing?

I’m either binge watching a series or old school Taylor Swift is on!

Your favourite pizza topping?

Double pepperoni, as much cheese as possible

What’s in your bag:

Nikon Z6ii, Nikon 35mm 1.8, Nikon D750, Nikon 50mm 1.4, FTZ Mount and my handy phone attachment for behind the scenes videos!