Welcome to Indie Oxford Stories, our series celebrating the incredible people behind Oxford’s independent businesses.
These are the makers, bakers, creatives, and community builders who bring so much heart to the city. Each story offers a personal story about what inspired them to start, what keeps them going, and how you can support the local businesses that matter so much to life in Oxford.
You can explore more features in the full Indie Oxford Stories collection, browse our Directory of Independent Businesses, or find your nearest indie on our Interactive Map.
How would you describe your business in a sentence?
Digital content creator for businesses large, medium and small.
What first inspired you to start your business – was there a lightbulb moment?
Kind of. I used to be a professional tour musician and bought a little camera to keep me out of the green room! I eventually put down the bass guitar but carried on photographing live music. I was OK at it, so I decided to go pro!
How did you actually get started?
As I was leaving the world of professional musicianship, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I had started charging for my photography as it had reached a level where people were willing to pay…so I thought…let’s just do it!
What felt most daunting about starting out, and how did you overcome it?
I’d never been solo trading freelancer before.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
Learning how to run a business and make good money.
What has been your proudest moment?
The whole thing! When I look at where I am now and compare it to even 3 years ago, I have come so far. Both creatively and as a business person. I still have a long way to go, but I can say I’ve made it to a very stable place, and I’m all in for the future of my business.
What is the biggest lesson you have learned about running a business?
It’s brilliant! I love being my own boss and having total control over everything I do. But then, I am a control freak, so it’s convenient.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out, what would it be?
“Network. Then network some more. And then network even more than that.”
What’s next for you and the business?
I’m investing in my equipment (and in myself) so I can offer next-level film and photography services. This isn’t altruism, though – I want to earn more hard cash!
What is your favourite thing about running a business in Oxfordshire?
Beautiful county full of beautiful people!
How can people support you right now?
Book me!
Who in the Independent Oxford community inspires you?
The whole community is so supportive and inspirational.
What does being part of the Independent Oxford community mean to you?
There’s a kind of validation that I feel. Connecting with members who face the same challenges and who find the same solutions makes me feel like I am doing something right!
What’s a fun fact about you that people might not know?
I was once run over by an electric milk float!
Tea or Coffee? Coffee ☕
Early Bird or Night Owl? Night Owl 🦉
Book or Film? Film 🎬
