Hannah Couzens: Finding Success by Staying True to Your Photography Style

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson welcomes Hannah Couzens, a renowned portrait photographer and Sony Imaging Ambassador. With years of experience behind the camera, Hannah has built a reputation for her expertise in lighting, her engaging teaching approach and her ability to bring out the best in her subjects. Her philosophy, "Come as strangers and leave as friends," perfectly encapsulates her warm and inviting style.

Hannah’s journey into photography began in her teenage years when a friend introduced her to the magic of film photography. From that moment, she was captivated by the way a camera and light could shape an image. She went on to study photography and quickly immersed herself in the industry, gaining experience across a range of genres before focusing on portraiture.

During the episode, Hannah shares key moments from her career, including a personal loss that led to a life-changing opportunity in New Zealand, which gave her a fresh perspective and helped refine her skills. She talks about the importance of staying true to your creative voice, even when industry trends tempt you to stray. Hannah also discusses her transition into teaching and how she simplifies lighting techniques to make them accessible to all photographers.

As a Sony Imaging Ambassador, Hannah explains how she initially resisted switching to mirrorless but was quickly won over by the technology’s capabilities. She also answers questions from SheClickers about her favourite personal projects, working with teams and the business side of photography.

If you’re passionate about portrait photography and want insight from an experienced professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Listen now and take your photography to the next level!

Connect with Hannah
Website
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube

Sony
This podcast is supported by Sony, maker of class-leading camera equipment and cutting-edge technologies – like the Global Shutter in the Alpha 9 III which won the SheClicks 2024 Award for Innovation.

Takeaways
Here are six key takeaways from the episode that you can apply to your own photography or photography business:

1. Lighting is key to great portraits – Mastering lighting techniques can elevate your portrait photography. Understanding how to shape and control light helps create depth, mood and impact.
2. Stay true to your style – Following trends can be tempting, but developing and sticking to your unique photographic style will help attract the right clients and set you apart.
3. Photography is about more than just the camera – Technical skills are important, but posing, composition and directing your subject play a crucial role in creating strong portraits.
4. Photography is 80% people skills, 20% technique – A great portrait comes from making your subject feel comfortable and confident. Developing strong communication skills is just as important as knowing camera settings.
5. Continuous learning keeps you ahead – Whether it’s new camera technology, lighting setups, or refining posing techniques, stay curious and committed to learning.
6. Building a photography business takes strategy – Success in photography isn’t just about taking great images. Marketi

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