DocDay // Mini Blog

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone: Speaking at DocDay 2024

As a Cotswold wedding photographer, my world typically revolves around capturing intimate wedding moments, but this year, I found myself stepping into a new challenge — one that had me feeling nervous excitement like never before. This past month, I had the incredible opportunity to speak at DocDay 2024, an exclusive documentary wedding photography conference in Ireland. And while I’ll always be more comfortable behind the camera than in front of an audience, this experience was one I’ll never forget.

Saying Yes to DocDay 2024

When Kevin and Annie Kheffache, the founders of DocDay, invited me to speak, I didn’t hesitate for long. Though I’ve said “no” to speaking engagements in recent years, I knew this was different. I love documentary wedding photography, and DocDay has always been a place of creativity and inspiration — a “pilgrimage” I look forward to every year. So, despite my usual introverted nature, I said “yes” to the challenge of sharing my journey and my approach to wedding photography.

The Lead-Up: A Mix of Nerves and Preparation

From December 2022 to February 2024, I found myself feeling a bit perplexed about what I could possibly offer to a room full of seasoned wedding photographers. How could I, just one person with a camera, contribute something meaningful to this gathering of professionals?

I spent the weeks leading up to the talk combing through my archive, studying my work from my very first wedding until the most recent one. I wanted to make sure I could explain not only how I shoot weddings but also why I shoot the way I do. Wedding photography for me is a natural process, driven by experience and personal values, but translating that into a presentation was a whole different challenge.

I practiced, practiced, and practiced some more — with my laptop linked to the TV, rehearsing in front of family, making sure the delivery was engaging. I even had moments of panic when I would forget to breathe or get stuck on words, but I knew I had to push through. And, honestly, it wasn’t until I was standing on that stage in front of 200 people that I realized I would truly find out if I could do this!

Facing the Nerves: Overcoming Stage Fright

Before stepping on stage, I felt completely overwhelmed — something I didn’t expect, considering how comfortable I usually am in my Cotswold wedding photography business. I opened my talk with a joke about skydiving, showing a video of me jumping from 15,000 feet. It was a playful way to break the ice, and it worked! But when I looked out into the audience, I was hit with the reality of how nervous I actually was.

Yet, as I started speaking and saw people smiling, laughing, and connecting with what I had to say, I began to relax. The fear faded. The nervous energy turned into something more natural. And the most surprising part? I actually enjoyed it. I’m proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone — a lesson I’ll carry with me in all areas of my life.

The Power of Feedback: A Humbling Experience

The feedback I received after my talk was incredibly humbling. Here are just a few messages that truly touched me:

• “THANK YOU! That’s the talk I didn’t even realize I needed to hear.”
• “You made me believe I can be an amazing people photographer.”
• “Thank you for being vulnerable, gentle, and wonderful. You made me feel like I was the only person there.”
• “It’s not like me to message a speaker, but you honestly made my day.”

Reading these messages filled me with an overwhelming sense of relief and gratitude. I had worried that my introverted nature would make it hard for people to connect, but the response proved just how powerful authenticity can be. It was a reminder that vulnerability can be a strength, and I’m so thankful for the amazing photographers and industry professionals who supported me throughout this journey.

Lessons Learned and What’s Next

This experience has taught me so much about pushing myself and stepping outside my comfort zone. I’ve gone from saying “no” to speaking engagements to saying “yes” to DocDay, and I’m so glad I did. It’s reminded me that we are all braver than we think — and that sometimes, the things we’re most afraid of can turn into the most rewarding experiences.

And the journey doesn’t stop here. I’m also excited to announce that I’m now part of the FedWed panel — a professional support system for wedding photographers and filmmakers of all styles and abilities. I’m looking forward to being part of a community that fosters learning, collaboration, and support in this wonderful industry.

A Special Thanks

Finally, I want to thank everyone who had my back during this process — from my husband, who coached me on public speaking, to my daughter, who helped match music to the visuals in my presentation, to my friends who offered encouragement and support. You made all the difference.

I’d also like to encourage any wedding photographers or filmmakers reading this to check out both DocDay and FedWed. These are communities where you can connect with others, grow your craft, and find inspiration.

Thank you again for reading, and for everyone who reached out with kind words. This journey has been nothing short of incredible, and I can’t wait to see where it leads next.