Hello there. How are you? I’m writing from a very overcast Sydney, but the cool breeze is a welcome change from all the crazy heat we’ve been having lately. And it’s not even summer yet. Eek.

You might remember that this time last year, I took an online photography course with blogger, maker, photographer and all-round lovely lady Emily Quinton.

I found that course so inspiring. As well as all the technical know-how Emily passed on, I just loved her whole outlook on life, particularly the importance she places on creativity and making something everyday – just because.

Anyway, we were back in the UK this spring and the stars aligned (thanks Mum for babysitting) and I was able to go down to London for the day for an in-person workshop with Emily, at her beautiful Makelight studio.

If you follow Emily on Instagram you will know she has a very distinctive, often floral, and always cheerful style. Well, walking into the studio was like being in Emily’s Instagram stream. Beautiful light, beautiful things, buckets of flowers, tea, cake and tons and tons of inspiration.

I’ve shared a few photos from that day below, if you’d like to see. I’m just kicking myself for not taking more photos of the actual studio as it’s just so lovely.

Styling photographs is not my strong point, but it was such fun to play with Emily’s props – including this beautiful vintage cake tin which pops up on her feed from time to time.

Emily is so generous with her knowledge and it was great to be able to quiz her on lots of different things – we all wanted to know how she manages to do all she does as well as being a mum of four.
I would love to do another of Emily’s courses. There is always more to learn and whether it’s the online course or this latest workshop, I’ve met some really lovely people through Makelight.

Taking pretty pictures is a little hobby for me – one my other half and the rest of my family don’t really get! It’s not something I will ever make a living from so it’s hard to justify spending the time and resources doing it, but I really enjoy it.  I came away from having that day to myself – just for me – feeling so refreshed and full of ideas.

So thanks again Emily, and your beautiful assistant, Ruth Garner (of a Gathered Cheer), for a lovely day. It was just fab.