About me: The face behind the lens

People always ask me how I started my Photography Business... 

Bloemfontein photographer, Sonia SmallWell, to tell you the truth, I have always loved Photography.  I still remember (at the tender age of 14) how my mother scolded me for using some of her valuable household items as props and my little sister Lorna (11 years my junior) as my subject.  I had the smallest film camera, and had to limit myself with images because it was SO pricey to have them developed! 

(To this day, Lorna loves to be photographed and I am happy to report that she is still a very willing subject whenever I want to try out new poses and ideas.)

I was the Owner and Editor of a Property & Lifestyle Magazine for almost 5 years.  I had the privilege to take all the photographs of the Free State and surrounding areas for my magazine. 

When I was diagnosed with cancer in 2008, I chose LIFE and also to only do things I absolutely LOVE. This was when I bought my first NIKON.  To this day, I am a Nikon Baby and I can say with pride that this was a life changing event in my life.  Life is always "greener" through my viewfinder.

All my clients are from referrals and the ever trusty "word-of-mouth".  To this day I have never advertised in any newspaper or magazine.  I am very proud of the relationship I have with my clients and always feel honoured when they allow their families to "grow" in front of me and trust me with their most intimate memories!

I'm all about LOVE!

Things I love

Things I don't love

  • Jesus
  • My beautiful girls, Abigail & Britaney
  • My stunning family & friends
  • Early mornings
  • Fresh smell of rain
  • The Outdoors
  • Artistic Photography (Painting with light / Star- & Light trails /  Working with Light)
  • Crazy fun - anything from River rafting, Bungee jumping to Skydiving or hiking
  • Belly Laughs
  • Vintage Props & Furniture (I am a self confessed Prop Junkie)
  • Road trips
  • Coffee & RedBull
  • Being a witness to Raw Moments
  • Overflowing Bookshelves
  • Couples that write their own vows
  • Clients who become friends & trust me with their memories
  • Mothers who force their little ones to "pose" for the camera
  • Grooms that don't dance at their own wedding
  • Bridezillas
  • Bossy people
  • Eyeglasses that turn into sunglasses
  • People that try to tell me how to do my job.  After all, you've seen my Portfolio, and you liked my work.  SO trust me to deliver on my promises!  How I do it is up to me!
  • Competition aka "Professional" photographers who shadow me at weddings with their i-pads
  • Using "LOL" or "K" or any text lingo that looks like you are playing Bingo (B4)
  • "Fake" smiles
  • People who are late for appointments and don't respect my time

 

 

Some Behind the Scenes Action Shots

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