Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
I’m still very much finding my feet when it comes to balancing family life and running my little photography business, especially through the six-week holidays! Shoots often fall midweek, and I’m so grateful to have family who step in to help with the children when I need them. Most of my editing happens in the evenings, when the house is finally quiet. I’ll admit, I sometimes get completely lost in it and hours can fly by! But for me, editing is almost therapeutic – a chance to breathe, reflect and really bring each memory to life.
At the start, I tried to take on too much. There were weeks so jam-packed with shoots that I barely had a moment left for my own children. It didn’t take long to realise I needed to slow down, to space things out, so I could be present both as a mum and as a photographer. That balance isn’t easy. I don’t always get it right, but I’m learning as I go.
This little business isn’t about chasing “full-time success”. It’s about creating something of my own, something that brings me joy, confidence and a sense of balance I didn’t know I was missing. And it’s about showing my children that even as a mum, even with all the chaos of life, you can carve out something just for you and make it shine.
The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Honestly, my biggest challenge hasn’t been the photography itself, it’s been my own mindset. As a mum, and someone who’s had her fair share of struggles, I’ve often told myself my photos aren’t good enough, or worried that people wouldn’t choose me. There’s always that little fear of rejection, that maybe clients won’t like my work… or even me.
I’d scroll through social media and compare my tiny following to those big, established photographers and wonder if I’d ever get there. Living with anxiety makes it even harder sometimes. Even when a client gives me the kindest compliment, it takes a while for me to let it sink in. But I keep reminding myself: you can do this.
I want other mums to know that if I can step forward, even with all my doubts, so can you. Bit by bit, with every shoot, every smile, every kind word, I’m learning to believe in myself again. And maybe that’s the real magic of this business: showing my children, and myself, that no matter how tough things get, we can create something beautiful. 💛
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I absolutely love running my own business, but I’ll be honest, I do struggle to keep on top of things sometimes. I’m still learning how to manage emails, organise online galleries and balance all the little behind-the-scenes tasks that come with running a business. It’s definitely a work in progress, and I’m figuring it out as I go.
I’m also dyslexic, which makes things like emails and the more technical side of running a business especially challenging for me. But I’m lucky that I have a husband who is really supportive and helps me find ways that work for me. Step by step, I’m learning to shape the business in a way that feels manageable and true to me.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Right now, I’m focusing on getting myself out there. I was recently accepted as a member of Inspiration Photographers, an international, world-renowned photography association, which honestly took me by surprise! It’s such an honour, and it’s given me even more encouragement to keep moving forward.
What matters most to me is creating calm, inclusive spaces for families, especially those with children who have additional needs. As a mum to a son with autism, I know how important it is to feel seen, understood and supported. That’s why I’m hoping to connect not only with families, but also with nursery schools and alternative provisions, so I can capture real moments for children who don’t always get the spotlight.
I’ll keep sharing my work, my dreams and my vision and who knows, maybe even enter a few photography competitions along the way. But above all, it’s about reaching the families who need these memories the most.
Visit the Rebecca Kelly Photography website to find out more, browse her gallery or book a session. You can also connect with Rebecca on Facebook and Instagram.
