Katie Williams Photography, Image shows Katie holding a camera.

Gather to Grow Spotlight Katie Williams Photography

April 7, 2024

Hey, I’m Katie of Katie Williams Photography! I am a natural newborn and family photographer based in ever so sunny Manchester, capturing those intimate family connections and allowing families to embrace their parenthood journey (Katie Williams Photography). I attended the ‘Ultimate Posing workshop’ held by Gather to Grow in June 2023.

Katie Williams, Female photographer smiling at the camera

Describe your photography style in 3 words:

Simple, Natural, Precious

How did your photography business journey begin:

I struggle to remember a real starting date for when I became a photographer. I am one of those who has constantly had a camera in my hand since being 14 years old. Photography turned from my hobby into a business and I thank my lucky stars every day that this is what I call a job, it never feels like work.

How is it going so far?

I’ve been in business now for 9 years, at this moment in time, I can without a doubt say this has been the best year yet for my business. Gather To Grow has definitely played a big part in this. I’m busier than I’ve ever been!

Right now, I’m working towards becoming a full time, self employed photographer, and leaving my part time job behind for good. Watch this space!

Family standing but all cuddling, dad young boy and young girl hiding in her mums legs, mum holds young baby

Katie you didn’t get to attend ‘Gather to Grow 1.0’, what made you want to come our ‘Ultimate Posing workshop’ in June 2023?

I instantly regretted not booking a ticket to Gather To Grow 1.0, so when it came to the announcement of the June ‘Ultimate Posing Workshop’ in 2023, I knew I couldn’t miss it! The idea of having new perspectives on posing clients was exciting. I couldn’t wait to hear everything the girls had to teach us! Being a photographer is a job where you never know everything there is to know. You are constantly learning and I think attending workshops like this is so important. Especially if you want to grow in your business and in yourself.

Baby sitting on a wood floor looking beyond the camera taken at a Gather to grow event

Mother holding her child taken at Gather to grow event

Mother holding baby and looking at him as baby looks away

Mother looking up at her baby in front of a brick white wall

What did you want to gain from the experience?

I wanted to come away feeling inspired and motivated, to grow in my business and push it to the next level and that’s exactly how I felt! Knowing I was also going to get the chance to capture some portfolio images was a massive bonus and maybe a few headshots!

man and pregnant woman both with hands placed on her baby bump

Pregnant woman standing alone against a wall in light blue underwear cradling her baby bump

What did you think of the ‘Ultimate Posing workshop’ in June 2023?

The event itself was incredible! Everyone was so lovely, and we were all welcomed with open arms, which instantly put us all at ease. Getting to spend time with Mel, Yaz, Becky & Suzi, was brilliant. Watching them whilst they demonstrated their approach to maternity, newborn, sitter and family sessions was valuable.

We were able to get in on the action. We took loads of shots ourselves, which I love to look back on. It wasn’t just about the shoots. We also had time to capture new headshots for each other and get to know each other better. We ate good food, asked a tons of questions of the girls. There was also the opportunity to try out some new equipment as they had Canon UK as a sponsor which was so helpful and pretty cool.

Pregnant woman with extending baby bump with her partner leaning his head against her forehead while cradling her bump

What was the best take away from the Gather to Grow workshop for you?

After the event I truly felt so inspired and eager to apply this new knowledge to my own sessions. Now months later I can see such an improvement. I came away from the workshop with lifelong friends too. We have the best group chat going and we speak in it everyday. We hype each other up and support each other from all over the country. I wouldn’t have that if it wasn’t for Gather To Grow. As soon as I got home, the 2024 event, Gather to Grow 2.0, was announced and I immediately booked a ticket.

family standing, dad holding toddler son, mum holding newborn baby taken at Gather to Grow event

Dark haired mother holding a newborn on her shoulder wearing a cute white bonnet captured by Katie Williams Photography

Yay! What would you say to someone who is debating going to a Gather to Grow event?

If anyone is thinking of attending a future Gather To Grow event, I say just book the ticket! It will be one of the best decisions you make for your business, and you won’t regret it. We are a big community now and I adore it. Book it!

What is in your plan for Katie Williams Photography and moving forward?

My biggest goal for 2024 is definitely to leave my part time job. This will allow me to become a full time newborn & family photographer. It is such a big leap but I know its possible! I can’t wait!