How I practice the Yamas as a yoga photographer

I don’t think I ever expected to put “Yoga Photographer” as my job title - and yet here we are. I started yoga as a movement practice, and like many of us it became the gateway to what is now my spiritual practice. And if there’s anything to know about any spiritual practice, it’s that they are not separate from life: they ARE life. So I try to apply this philosophy to the way I conduct my life, and to the way I conduct my business. Here are some of the things I implement to work in line with my value system.

Ahimsa

Being photographed can be a scary, daunting experience, sometimes triggering for people. I aim to provide a safe space full of compassion, understanding and love, should strong emotions arise.

Satya

I remain honest about my pricing structure, what you get, and I talk about money in a clear way. It’s a work in progress for me as imposter syndrome sometimes wants me to just offer everything for free, but it’s going ok so far.

Asteya

I don’t steal people’s time - I arrive on time and deliver the pictures swiftly. Of course there is enormous value in taking things slow - but I also appreciate that London (where I do most of my work) is full of busy people doing busy things.

Brahmacharya

I conserve my energy for clients who align with me. I have worked with people who have views radically opposite to me and it left me depleted, whereas a photoshoot is normally uplifting for me.

Aparigraha

I share my secrets, my tips, and my time. I don’t own anything and nothing is mine, I am just one of the vessels from which a message is being shared. I love photography as an art medium, and if I can transmit that to someone, that makes me very happy.