Readers who have seen previous articles on my work will know that I create images which I print and hand-embroider—a technique known as Photobroderie. I haven’t created much new work lately, but I’ve been busy speaking about it at camera clubs and encouraging others to approach creative photography in new ways. I’m also branching out commercially into pet photography, with an emphasis on exotic animals. I love all animals, but there’s something special about the quirky ones—the frogs and toads, the snakes and lizards, the tortoises and tree nymphs. As a bird lover (and parrot owner), birds also feature heavily in my work, and I’ve been fortunate to receive commissions from a pet parrot retail company, as well as an invitation to set up my studio at the UK’s largest exotic bird expo later this year.

Instagram:
@featherandtailuk
@lizjearyphoto

What Inspired Your Career in Photography?

I realised at a young age that I was very creative but didn’t excel in any particular art form. I received a camera as a gift when I was eight, and my love for photography was born. After years of studying and fine-tuning my craft, I now feel confident and comfortable creating images—both as a creative outlet and as a form of commerce.

Challenges as a Woman in the Industry

I face challenges on a daily basis as a woman in photographic retail. While attitudes toward women in the camera industry have improved, there still seems to be a lack of trust or belief that women are just as knowledgeable as—if not more than—their male colleagues. I don’t see it as intentional misogyny—although it can come across that way—but rather as a lack of understanding that gender has no bearing on knowledge or ability in any field.

Recognition and Opportunities for Female Photographers

I’ve never knowingly been denied an opportunity solely because of my gender, but I’m fairly certain it remains an issue in some parts of the industry. Many female-focused opportunities exist to counteract this kind of discrimination, yet the industry remains male-dominated—something evident in the ratio of male to female brand ambassadors. It’s often said that women focus less on self-promotion and more on personal satisfaction, which could affect their recognition.

Photography Gear and Gender Bias

Most photography gear works for me, though I acknowledge that some accessories aren’t designed with the female body in mind. However, that doesn’t stop me—I just adapt and make things work for me.

Facing Assumptions About My Role and Abilities

The challenges I face in retail also extend to my photographic work and leisure. When I’m out shooting with a super-telephoto lens, I often hear remarks like, 'You must get some good shots with that camera,' which disregards my abilities. I also encounter people bragging about their own gear or achievements. Photography often feels like a constant competition, regardless of your actual intentions.

Advice for Women Entering the Industry

Find your own voice through images, but don’t feel like you need to prove yourself. Your work will speak for itself, regardless of the equipment you use or the amount of post-processing involved. These factors are irrelevant unless they contribute to the concept or are essential to the final outcome.

How Can the Industry Uplift Female Creatives?

Articles like this help! I think women need to be more vocal about their abilities. This ties back to self-promotion, which can be difficult for women to embrace. I feel brands in the industry should seriously reconsider how they represent women in their marketing. Representation has definitely improved in the decade I’ve been with Wilkinson Cameras, but it still doesn’t match that of men—either in numbers or in context. When a new lens designed for sports or wildlife is released, you’ll likely only see men using it.

I love that our marketing team is led by two talented women, but it’s disheartening to see the comments and reactions they receive online. If you’re a woman—especially an attractive one—you’re often dismissed as 'just a presenter.' This completely disregards the effort that goes into creating videos and content—something men in similar roles rarely experience.

International Women’s Day in Photography

For me, International Women’s Day is a powerful opportunity to amplify representation, storytelling, and empowerment in photography. It’s a time to celebrate women both behind and in front of the camera, highlighting their struggles and achievements. Most importantly, it’s a day to proudly showcase our work—because why not?!

Wilkinson Cameras is proud to share the voices of the incredible women in our team. Follow Liz and her journey through her Instagram pages, and check out some of Liz's fantastic work below:
@featherandtailuk
@lizjearyphoto