Through my Lens
I’m Michelle—a seasoned photographer, traveller, and storyteller, with a passion for beautifully curated spaces.
My work is about more than just taking photos; it’s about creating images that feel natural and inviting.
Whether it’s the warmth of a boutique hotel, the charm of a thoughtfully designed Airbnb, or the welcoming energy of a hospitality team, I focus on capturing the essence of a space
and the people who bring it to life.
With formal training from Newcastle College and Northumbria University, I’ve spent over twenty years behind the lens, working in diverse environments—from fast-paced surf schools to intimate portrait sessions.
My experience has given me a deep understanding of how to create a relaxed atmosphere where people feel at ease, allowing for genuine, effortless storytelling through photography.
How I Work
I don’t just arrive, take a few shots, and leave. I take the time to immerse myself in your space, staying on-site during quieter periods.
This allows me to go beyond polished interiors, capturing a visual narrative that feels lived-in, personal, and authentic—perfect for professional websites and engaging social media content.
I balance structured professionalism with a relaxed, intuitive style, ensuring the entire process feels seamless and enjoyable. Whether it’s styling a scene for the perfect shot, capturing spontaneous moments, or providing guidance on how to make your interiors pop, I bring a thoughtful eye and years of expertise to every project.
Video
Photography is just one part of visual storytelling. With experience in creating engaging video content, I understand the power of movement, mood, and narrative in bringing a space to life. Whether it’s short-form social media clips or immersive video tours, I help businesses craft compelling content that captures attention and drives engagement.
By combining high-quality photography and video, I create a cohesive visual identity that enhances brand presence across platforms. Let’s work together to showcase what makes your space truly special.
Published Work
My work has been published in major UK publications as part of my role as an in-house photographer and filmmaker, where I produced award-winning social media films that elevated
brand awareness.
With over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped hospitality brands build recognition through professional photography and compelling visual storytelling—showcasing spaces in a way that connects with audiences.
Before stepping behind the camera, I worked in restaurants, bars, and hospitality across the UK, Europe, and Australia. From serving guests to managing fast-paced environments, I played an active role in creating memorable experiences.
I’ve also run my own holiday rentals in Portugal and the UK, both before and during the rise of Airbnb, giving me a deep understanding of what attracts guests and converts bookings.
To support my photography career, I returned to hospitality in 2015, working in a high-standard, fast-paced restaurant while a founding member of what is now an award-winning organisation where my photography was published
in multiple publications in the UK and abroad.
This experience of both sides helps me connect with your team
and business needs.
While capturing images that not only look beautiful, they
connect with potential holidaymakers.
Hospitality Experience – Understanding Both Sides
Why now?
After 20 years of regular photography work—including five years as Creative Director and in-house photographer for a now award-winning organisation—I stepped back. A few weeks later, lockdown hit, and like many, I shifted focus and followed a few other paths.
My cameras gathered dust. So did my rucksack.
But recently, something shifted. I found myself showing an old portfolio to someone keen on photography—and it made me emotional. I remembered what I loved about this work, and how good I was at it. Around the same time, a TikTok video popped up about photographing hotels and Airbnbs while travelling. It sparked something. I'd done property photography before—so why not again? Why not bring it back, with a fresh perspective?
I love to travel. To experience new places, to slow down, to soak in the details. I love exploring, surfing and sailing. And I’d noticed time was slipping by without those things. After recently losing four people I worked closely with—far too young, all to cancer—it hit me even harder: life is short, and it’s meant to be lived.
So I bought the ebook. Booked the coaching calls. Updated my kit, refined my style. And here I am—ready to pick up my camera, explore the world again, and help beautiful spaces tell their story through bright, relaxed, lifestyle-focused visuals.