Pam Watson-Smith
Name: Pam Watson-Smith
Camera: Nikon Zfc, Nikon D800, iPhone 14
Favourite type of photography: Still life, portrait and street
Location: Colchester, UK
Website: I’m working on a website
Instagram: @pam_watson_smith
How did you get into photography?
I started with a Kodak 110 film camera when I was 5, and never stopped.
Do you have any photographic qualifications or accolades?
Do two Amateur Photographer runners-up mugs count? (Editor: yes).
What's the first photograph you remember seeing or shooting?
I remember shooting my schoolfriend Claire when I was 12; she was a great model, and I still have the photos.
What do you love about photography?
I love the freedom of being able to express myself, however I am feeling.
Read about Creative Photography, What it is and How to Get Started
What do you wish you'd learned about photography earlier?
I wish I'd had a manual camera earlier - I would have loved to have more control earlier.
Where is your favourite place for photography?
I love shooting street photography in London; I discover something new every time I get off at a new Tube stop.
Do you have a favourite photographic technique?
I don't yet as I'm still too busy experimenting!
Can you briefly outline your approach to image processing?
Chaotic! I really need to do another Photoshop course.
What's your favourite lens?
My 50mm 1.4 vintage Nikon lens because it gives beautiful bokeh.
Read the SheClicks Guide to Lensbaby Lenses
Do you have a favourite accessory?
My Nikon FTZ converter - boring but useful!
Have you found the perfect camera bag yet?
My Billingham bag is my pride and joy
Which photographers have influenced or inspired you, and how or why?
Gosh - so many! Jane Bown, Robert Mapplethorpe and Vivian Maier. They all have such a unique style and make what they do look easy.
Please recommend 2 or 3 female photographers to follow on Instagram.
Khandie @khandiephoto
Is there a camera, lens or accessory that you don't have yet but you'd like to buy at some point?
I really want a Lensbaby!
Is there a genre of photography that you love but that you haven't tried yet?
I'd love to try Lomography at some point.
What's your proudest photographic moment?
Winning those two AP mugs!
If you could have one superpower that could help you with photography, what would it be?
Is invisibility too obvious? Just imagine all those candids you could get!
Your favourite baked goods are?
A Caffe Nero apricot croissant - served with an oatmilk latte please.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I'm a mum, I'm a wife, and I have bipolar disorder - balancing those three is challenging sometimes. Photography is an outlet for when I need to get away from the world - it’s just me and the viewfinder.
