Lady behind the lens

Photograph of female photographer, Maggie, owner of Magpie Photography in Manchester

Lady behind the lens…

And now, unusually, in front of it!

My love for photography was sparked by my Grandpa, who was a keen photographer. He could often be found clutching a camera, getting us to pose for numerous photos and, so I was told by his brother, used to develop films in the bath. We had one of his old Minolta cameras in our dressing up box at home and as a child I was fascinated by all the different buttons and settings which seemed very technical at the time. I found it particularly satisfying flipping the back of the case open and shut. Thankfully I’ve moved past that urge and was spurred on to do a City & Guilds photography course, ten years ago now, and from there I started building up my own photography business. My style is relaxed and informal, capturing moments as they happen. I think these always make the most interesting, honest and treasured images.

Here’s a little bit more about me…

I’m a lady of numerous pet names, but typically go by Maggie. I’ve lived in Chorlton with my other half, who has ‘endured’ my culinary delights and hypochondriac tendencies (and is still standing), for more than a decade. Part of the pack since 2017 is our little girl, Isla, and since 2020 our cat, ingeniously called ‘Kitty or Kitt’.

I’m a big fan of being outdoors - exploring, running, being by the sea whenever I can (maybe something to do with growing up on the Wirral) and spending time with family and friends. I love a spot of people watching too, with Jason Orange being a frequent sighting over the years.

Whilst trying to resist my parents hoarding tendencies I am a collector of ‘things’ - books, hats, shiny things (like a magpie), beauty products, gin, curiosities. I’ve spent a lot of hours watching Harry Potter and enjoy a period drama (only the original bbc version of pride and prejudice thank you) and lately, under the influence of my daughter, I’ve added Bluey to that list.

I enjoy a good book, good food, gardening and am very partial to chocolate. My taste in music is somewhat eclectic ranging from Haddaway (the leather waistcoated clad German) with hit classics such as “What is love?”, to Elvis, Elton John, Arcade Fire, Kings of Leon, Zero 7 and the odd classical tune to name a few.

I have a distinctive laugh and am told you know where I am if you hear my laugh before you see me.

I’m easy going and, so I’m told, have a cheeky charm.