Classic opening question, How did you get into photography?

I used to steal my Mum’s point and shoot film camera when I was just a kid,maybe about 9 or 10. I would “style” my sister and get her to pose like the kids in the Pumpkin Patch clothing catalogues (+1 points if you remember those).

My real passion for it started when I was about 15. I took photography in high school. I had an entry level Canon DSLR with a kit lens, and I would take photos of my friends.

What's your favourite thing(s) to photograph?

I love photographing people, which can be a challenge sometimes as I’m a bit of an introvert, but it forces me to step outside my comfort zone. I’ve shot a few weddings recently, and I love the blend of both portraiture and documentary genres.

How did studying design benefit your photography journey, if at all?

I think it was great seeing the two crossover and learning how photography can be applied in a commercial environment, like in advertising and publishing. Learning the typical design “rules” like composition, colour theory and so on were handy for when it came applying that to my photography and editing style. Although, I think I’m just a slave to Adobe at this point…

Should beginner photographers get into film or digital photography?

Tricky question! I think that film, especially using a manual camera, or even a digital camera on manual settings really helps you learn the basics of photography, like ISO, aperture and shutter speed. If you get it wrong, it’s an expensive exercise! You have to really stop and think about the relationship between those elements.

Digital is a lot more forgiving, but it can make me lazy sometimes. I guess whatever your budget allows haha. Don’t think you have to go out and buy the most expensive gear either. You can get great 2nd DSLR hand cameras that will absolutely still allow you to take incredible photos.

Common mistakes people make with film photography?

People are really used to phone cameras doing the most, especially in low light. The most common thing I see is people under exposing their film. Just because you can see it with your eye in the viewfinder doesn’t mean that your film and camera settings are going to be able to capture it! Make sure you meter correctly, or put your camera’s flash on if using a point and shoot or disposable, when in a darker environment. And keep your thumb out of the way of the lens! I was not immune to these issues when starting out…

Favourite film to shoot with?

I’m really loving the Lomography films at the moment. The 100 speed is one of my favourites, and is super underrated. It has great colour rendition and a fine grain. And Portra 400 is a cult favourite for a reason!

Advice on preventing burnout with a 9-5 creative job and your personal artistic projects?

It’s good to have your own projects on the go, that are completely unrelated to work. I like to draw in my spare time, and edit my own photos. Also, listen to your body  – if you sense the burnout is imminent, take a step back, take a day off. Also having great, understanding coworkers is always a plus.

Your role at Imageland has you working on art reproduction and photo restoration. Is it as wholesome and fulfilling as it sounds?

It is super fulfilling when a customer looks at your work and they have a smile on their face. I know it can be a bit nerve wrecking leaving something so precious in someone else’s hands. The jobs can still be challenging though, especially if a photo is super damaged, the damage is on people’s faces and there are no reference photos. I’m always willing to give it a try though.

How does photo restoration work?

I always start by checking that there are no negatives of the damaged photo, or a relative doesn’t have a copy in an album hidden away somewhere. Once it is established that, no, this is the only copy, I get to work by scanning the photo in at a high resolution. A good scan can make or break the process. Then I import the photo into Photoshop, and use a mix of the clone stamp, heal tool, dust/scratches filter and other tools and techniques to bring the photo back to life.

Drawing, design, photography - is there any art medium you haven't dabbled in?

I am the worst when it comes to painting and sculpture. They are something I have an interest in, but I’m quite clumsy! I also would love to try cyanotype at some point, and I would give anything to have access to a darkroom.

Worst thing you have forgotten to bring with you while on a photography job?

I think I’m pretty lucky in that I’m always prepared, to the point where I sometimes can’t sleep the night before a big job out of the fear of forgetting to bring something important. So in that case…a good night’s sleep?

Do you prefer Fresh film or expired film? Why?

Fresh film is great as I know what I’m getting myself into. Although I do love the sometimes unexpected results that expired film can get you. Some of the best film stocks (like Fuji Pro 400H) aren’t made any more and existing rolls will definitely have expired, but as long as they’re stored correctly, they will still give you some fantastic results.

Where can people find you?

I’m over on instagram @yasmin.amber.w

Can we have your cat?

My baby is priceless and therefore, not for sale.