Header photo: Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Xeniamodel

We love shining the limelight on fabulous creatives in the PurplePort community and sharing their unique journeys and creative processes.

In this episode of FEATURED, we interviewed Tabitha Boydell, a PurplePort photographer, stylist and events organiser with more than 7 years of experience who is based in Lancashire, United Kingdom.

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Ballerina Erica Mulkern

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell, model Lily Marion and studio Parktannas Retro Yard

About PurplePort photographer Tabitha Boydell

Tabitha Boydell is a photographer, stylist and workshop organiser based in Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom. She has been lucky enough to work on exciting projects in some amazing places, from the UK to Scotland, France and Italy.

With a style mainly inspired by high fashion couture looks, spectacular ballerinas, ruined and abandoned places and grand stately homes, Tabitha aims to create images that are dramatic, dark, gritty, and edgy with an underlying warmth and beauty. 

Since 2019, Tabitha has been offering a variety of fully styled events that allow all photographers, both new and established, to create images to treasure. In 2023 and beyond, Tabitha will be travelling to places like Stroud, London, Cheshire, Derby, Scotland, Dorset and Kent (so look out for an event near you!).

Tabitha's gorgeous work has been featured hundreds of times in the Front Page Image (FPI) Collection on PurplePort. Click here to check out Tabitha's stunning FPIs.

La Belle Epoque by photographer Tabitha Boydell, model Emma Darling and Photoshop wizard Lena Selkin Photography

FEATURED Interview with PurplePort photographer Tabitha Boydell

How did you get into photography?

I was running my own fashion website and needed to take photos of my stock. I borrowed my brother’s camera and roped in a family friend to model in front of a white backdrop for me.

I joined Purpleport to find other models for my business, but I got inspired by the creative opportunities there as well!

Jablonna Palace, Warsaw by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model CinnamonGaze

What did you do before becoming a photographer?

Marketing and I still do. I find that photography is about 70% marketing and 30% skill!

How do you prepare for photoshoots?

These days I am primarily preparing for my photography workshops, but I approach these the same way I approach all my shoots.

I’ll book a location and then plan themes and outfits. This involves checking out each room or shooting area in detail and working out what dresses from my extensive collection will work best.

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Xeniamodel

I’ll then book my models. I love edgy, editorial models with unique faces, and two of my recommended favourites are Xeniamodel and Saida.

Creative rapport is really important as well, and I couldn’t imagine working with models I didn’t gel with. I’ve been lucky that has only happened once or twice.

Dobby Dancer by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Ballerina Erica Mulkern

What style of photoshoot do you enjoy working on the most?

I love great, grand houses, so any in those spaces. I don’t do photoshoots that I don’t enjoy, I’m lucky in that respect!

I love running my workshops, meeting all the attendees, and helping them to create amazing images.

What's the most interesting photoshoot you've ever worked on?

I really enjoyed the workshop that I ran at the iconic Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham. It was more a big day out than anything else as I booked some of my favourite models, and we all had the run of the place for the day.

It was the biggest event I had run thus far in terms of attendee numbers, model numbers and costs, and whilst it should have been nerve-wracking, I had the perfect team on the day to ensure success.

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Silk

What do you most enjoy about being a photographer?

All of it, really, but I most enjoy the creative process and the final images.

I recently started to print my work out (with the help of some persistent friends) and frame it, and it’s all displayed in my home now.

What would you describe as your main strengths as a photographer?

My styling abilities and my editing style are very distinctive.

People say they can tell my work a mile off, and I think that’s a good thing if you’re trying to make a name for yourself.

What's your absolute favourite photo?

It’s hard to pick, but probably the one of Saida at Strawberry Hill House (see below), where she is leaning on a beautiful antique sideboard in the red gallery.

I love the matching tones, and it was exactly the sort of image I envisioned taking when I booked the location.

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Saida

Is there anyone in particular who inspires you?

I’m not really inspired by famous photographers but more by the wonderful people around me. I have some great creative friends (models, photographers, MUAs and hairstylists) who are so much fun to spend time with.

Once a year, we book a country house, pool our skills and resources, and create some photoshoot magic whilst also enjoying each other’s company.

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Mia Resa

What advice would you give to a photographer just starting out?

Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiences. I recommend you come to one of my events to experience a big-scale shoot in a fabulous location.

It will build your confidence; you’ll make creative friends and network with fellow photographers.

One final question. Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

I don’t really like pizza, I’m afraid. If we are in an Italian restaurant, I would rather eat a Caesar salad!

Image by photographer Tabitha Boydell and model Silk

Thanks again for speaking with us and sharing your creative journey, Tabitha Boydell.

We hope you all enjoyed this interview. Check out the links below for more of Tabitha Boydell's beautiful work!

Here's where you can find more of Tabitha Boydell's work

PurplePort: Tabitha Boydell

Website: www.tabithaboydell.co.uk

Instagram: tabithaboydell

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