Photographer Laura lets us into her world with pictures

Laura Brennan, 30, from Ferring, set up her own business Cherry Red Photography in 2012 and now focuses on weddings, newborn babies and family portraits. Earlier this year she joined a select list of only 80 people in the country to be accredited by the The Guild Of Professional Photographers.

Becoming qualified involves a rigorous assessment process as not only is photographic talent assessed but customer service as well.

Mrs Brennan said: “I did not really realise how much of a big deal this was initially.

“I joined the Guild of Professional Photography to back me up in my business and because I wanted to get a mentoring scheme set up so that I could improve further.

“But when I submitted my 20 images I was told that I did not need a mentor and told me that I was better than I thought. I was a bit surprised because I am my own worst critic, but I am thrilled to have achieved this recognition, it is wonderful to see my hard work paying off and being appreciated, am thankful to my family, friends and clients for their ongoing support and encouragement.

“To achieve something like this is amazing.”

Mrs Brennan studied A-level black and white darkroom photography after attending Davison High School for Girls but it was not until 2007 when she brought herself an SLR camera that she began thinking about professional photography.

She said: “I began to meet up with other photographers in the area and started studying tutorials on You Tube until I finally decided to branch out on my own to earn some extra money.

“I was on maternity leave at the time after having my son Joe who is now four.

“It went from there, a lot of it was through word of mouth which I think is the best way, then Cherry Red was born.

“I love my job, particularly seeing something that would make a great photo and turning it into something a lot more artistic.

“The photography I admire is of abandoned buildings and abstract types of art and for my own hobby I am hoping to get hold of some old film cameras.

“I just want to inspire other people now and I think my personality is reflected in my photography.

“During sessions I do not come across as a corporate photographer, I am much more likely to be performing cartwheels to make children laugh and the feedback I get is really positive. Photography is completely subjective but that is what is great about it. My hope now is to make it to the next level of qualification with the Guild.”