My Story: Why I Became a Photographer in Bridgend

6 days ago
4 min read

Published by Adele Morris, Bridgend newborn photographer

Hi, If you’ve just joined my VIP group —welcome! And if you’ve stumbled upon this blog and are curious about the woman behind the camera, this one’s for you.

This is where I share my heart: the why behind my work, how photography became not just a passion but a calling, and how life, loss, and love shaped everything I do today. Whether you're a mum, an expectant parent, or simply someone who values memories, you’re in the right place.

Where It All Began

My journey started when I was six years old, back in the 80s. On a family holiday in Spain, on our Spanish apartment balcony in Palma to be exact, my mum handed me her camera to take a photo of everyone. There was no screen to check, no instant feedback, we had to wait until the roll of film was developed. In those days that took weeks.

I was excited… and nervous.

But the photo came out perfectly, and I felt something shift. That little girl, carefully composing her first photo, would go on to tell hundreds of stories through her lens.

I studied photography at art college, learning traditional film photography, how to develop negatives, and the magic of the darkroom. The science fascinated me, but so did the stories.

During my degree in Bristol, I was fortunate to work in the animation industry, using my photography skills to support visual storytelling and motion graphics. One of the most memorable experiences was being nominated to collaborate with composer Andrew Morgan from the Royal College of Music on a 90-day moving image project. That creative journey expanded my love for visual and emotional storytelling, something that still shapes my work today.

In 2004, I began teaching photography and animation at The Meriton, a school for young mums in Bristol. I went on to become Head of Photography and Art while also working freelance, photographing music festivals and major events like Tsunami Relief Cardiff, where I captured performances by Eric Clapton, Kelly Jones, Feeder, the Manic Street Preachers, and more.

Motherhood, Loss & Why This Work Matters

Becoming a mother changed everything.

After going through multiple pregnancy losses, the way I saw the world and the way I approached photography completely shifted. Those experiences taught me just how delicate and precious each moment really is.

When my daughter Layla was born, and later my boys, Iestyn and Isaac, I felt that sense of urgency even more deeply. I wanted to hold onto everything, the tiny details, the quiet connections, the overwhelming love, because I knew how quickly time moves and how fragile life can be.

When I looked for a photographer I could trust with those moments, I struggled. I couldn’t find someone with the specialist training, sensitivity, or understanding I needed. And I realised: maybe that person didn’t exist yet, because it was me.

So I built the service I was searching for. A space that’s safe, gentle, experienced, and above all, compassionate. A place where families like mine, who have walked through joy and heartbreak, can feel seen, held, and honoured.

Neurodiversity & Inclusivity: A Personal Commitment

As a mum to an autistic child, and with over 20 years’ experience as a Special Educational Needs teacher, inclusivity isn’t a buzzword for me; it’s my lived reality.

I know how overwhelming new environments can be, especially under bright studio lights or with unfamiliar faces. That’s why every aspect of my sessions is designed to feel calm, welcoming, and adaptable to your family’s needs:

Flexible pacing: We go at your child’s rhythm, no rushing, no pressure.
Sensory‑friendly space: Dimmed lighting, minimal noise, soft furnishings, and room to move.
Empathetic support: Drawing on two decades of SEN teaching, I read nonverbal cues, offer breaks, and adapt in real time.
Trust‑building approach: A warm welcome call before your session to understand any preferences or triggers.

Whether you’re an autistic parent, have neurodivergent little ones, or simply value a photographer who “gets it,” you’ll find a safe, understanding space here, where every child and family is celebrated exactly as they are.

From Passion to Purpose

Eventually, I realised: I could do a job I love, and be really good at it.

I earned my qualification with the SWPP (I’m the only photographer in Bridgend who holds it), won awards, and had my work published in Vogue Italia. I refined my service into what it is today: high-end, bespoke maternity, newborn, and family photography rooted in trust and compassion.

As a specialist in my field, I work closely with families who need more bespoke sessions, whether due to neurodivergence, baby loss, IVF, or simply wanting a deeply personalised experience. Every story deserves to be told in photo form, and I knew I could do this because of my lived experience, my 20+ years of professional background, and my continued commitment to training with leaders in the industry.

Everyone deserves wall-worthy, show-stopping, storytelling, award-winning photography, regardless of their journey. And it’s my privilege to create that space, safely and beautifully.

What I Hope You Feel

When clients receive their galleries, they often cry, not from sadness, but because they feel seen.

I create timeless, wall-worthy images in a private, relaxed studio. It’s a space built for you to feel comfortable, with no distractions, pressure, or expectations. It’s just you, your family, and your story.