Picture perfect: Northern Ireland photographer develops her teenage passion into a snap-tastic business

I’m a commercial photographer from Magherafelt and I work with a wide variety of businesses – from sole traders to global companies.

I have a degree in Fine and Applied Arts from Ulster University and have always loved photography even as a teenager.

I was always snapping away at something with my compact camera. Surprisingly I was quite good at it.

So when I got older my dad encouraged me to set up my own business and I launched Alexandra Barfoot Photography 13 years ago.

I still have to pinch myself as I can’t believe that I have been able to turn my passion into a thriving business.

Over the years I have travelled all over the world with work – I’ve shot fashion in New York, London and Paris, weddings in the South of France and Switzerland and I have work coming up in Italy and Portugal.

I work on location so I will travel to wherever I’m needed that day. When my photography jobs are finished for the day, I head home and begin editing the photos I’ve just taken.

After this, I visit my family most days for a catch up and go for a walk.

My Dad is always on hand for advice, as are my mum and sisters, which I am extremely grateful for.

I love the variety of my job shooting interiors, hotels, fashion, bridal, products and food, social events and weddings.

One day I could be in a 5-star hotel and the next day I could be stood in a field with my wellies on.

Last week, I was in a field and a cow knocked over my light!

The other thing I love most about my job is the people I meet.

As a self-employed photographer I get to collaborate with inspiring and talented people and it’s a great feeling to be able to bring their vision to life with stylish photography and content creation to promote their businesses.

The wedding side of my business is very busy also. I always think it is an honour to be asked to capture a couple’s special day...and give them something they can treasure forever

Last year I was named the Commercial Photographer of the Year by the Professional Photographer Association of Northern Ireland.

This was a career highlight for me.

In recent years, some of the companies I work with have used my work on billboards and on the back of buses.

It’s very exciting when I’m out and about and see my work on this huge scale.

When I’m not working I really enjoy travelling to visit friends and family in different parts of the world.

I love seeing new places, eating out, taking photos, enjoying wonderful buildings, and being around the water.

However as I’m out-and-about most of the time I also enjoy nights in at home relaxing with friends and Oliver my cat.

Life is good..and I hope to keep developing (sorry for the pun) the business for many years to come!