Gather to Grow Spotlight – Little Lily Photography

June 20, 2023

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!

Christy Little Lily Photography Maternity Shoot in a studio sat on a chair

Little Lily Photography Newborn Shoot in a sunflower field

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!

Little Lily Photography Family Shoot at the beach

Little Lily Photography Maternity Shoot in the woods

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!

Little Lily Photography Mother and Daughter Shoot in a field

Little Lily Photography Maternity Shoot against a tree trunk. Mum to be has florals painted on her belly.

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!