This week we put the questions to Land Sea and Abstract Photographer Emma Stokes

What got you into photography ?

I always loved taking photos but it was when I was made redundant in 2017 that my passion truly took off. I went on some landscape photography courses both locally as well as Iceland and Croatia and loved every second. Friends and family were keen to purchase prints so my new-found hobby soon became a small business.

How long have you been shooting for ?

I always had a camera in hand, but it is seven years since my love of landscape photography really took off

What do you most like to shoot ?

Minimalist landscape and long exposure photography is what I am naturally drawn to but over time my focus has developed and evolved to include a mixture of intimate landscapes and ICM. I am known for my soft tones and pastel colours and people often say that my images evoke a sense of calm which I guess reflects very much how I feel when I am out with my camera.

What camera do you shoot with and what else is in your bag ?

I have a Canon 5D mark4 with lenses ranging from 16mm to 200mm. I also use Lee filters and have two tripods, a Three Legged Thing Billy tripod for calmer conditions and a Manfrotto 055 for using on the coast

What’s the hardest part of working as a photographer ( if any ) ?

Getting up early in the mornings without a doubt, although once I’m up and out it is always worth the effort! As a female photographer I am always aware of the potential risks of being out alone in the dark and this can sometimes limit my options.

If money was no object, what would your dream camera be or are you happy with what you have ?

I would love a mirrorless camera to make the most of it’s high dynamic range and noise handling, and although I have heard really good things about the Canon R5 I am really no camera geek so would need to do some research before choosing which one.

Do you have any photography inspirations and who are they ?

Yes, I am always feeling inspired by other photographers. There are too many to name but I do admire Rachael Talibart for her incredible talent and ability to tell a story, Shona Perkins because her beautiful work inspires me to be more creative, Ross Hoddinott for his stunning classical landscape and macro work and Helen Trust for her simplicity and calming visions.

Is there anywhere or anything that you haven’t photographed but you’d love to and why ?

I have always wanted to try drone photography as I live in a valley which is often filled with mist on a cold morning and I think a drone would offer a beautiful unique view of the landscape. As far as locations go, I would love to photograph in Antarctica, Greenland, Death Valley and Namibia.

What advice would you give to a female photographer just starting out ?

In this world where social media dominates and likes and follows seem so important, be inspired by others but follow your own path. It is all so easy to post what you think others will like rather than what you yourself enjoy taking, so be your own advocate and stick to what you love.

If you could be any animal / mythical creature, what would it be and why ?

I remember wanting to be a bird when I was younger so I could see the world from above, so maybe an Arctic Tern as it migrates from pole to pole