PHOTOGRAPHER Stephanie Wiggins is a born and bred Fermanagh woman, originally from Newtownbutler but currently living in Brookeborough.
Also known as ‘On Your Doorsteph’, the talented landscape photographer captures the beautiful surroundings that are on her doorstep, sharing her stunning shots via her Facebook and Instagram pages, @onyourdoorsteph.
Here she talks to The Impartial Reporter about what inspires her photography, her favourite photograph, to date, and how she would describe her photography style.
Are you a full-time photographer or do you have another profession too?
I RUN a photography business called ‘On Your Doorsteph’ where I sell prints, canvases, framed photos and most recently Fermanagh’s first and only ‘bucket-list scratch poster’.
It is currently my part-time job that I focus on every evening after coming home from my full-time employment in Enniskillen Photoshop.
When did you first discover an interest in photography?
I ASKED for a camera for my 18th birthday, and being a lover of the outdoors and nature, it wasn’t long before I started capturing my adventures and sharing them on social media.
The positive response made me pursue it, and now, 11 years later, it’s still my greatest passion.
Are you self-taught or did you do a course/degree in photography?
I’M A self-taught photographer. The best way to learn is to get out and get creative!
Photography, to me, is a form of expression, and I’m thankful to have learnt it the way I did rather than be taught a particular method or style.
What inspires your photography?
FERMANAGH and all its beautiful places. I love capturing what’s on our doorstep and being able to showcase it to locals and tourists.
I often receive messages from people saying they’ve visited a certain location in Fermanagh because they’ve seen my photos online.
I’m very passionate about staying local and supporting localm, and if my photography encourages someone to come visit here, then I’m proud.
What is your favourite photograph, to date?
MY FAVOURITE photograph changes all the time, but my current one was taken last year of a white buck amongst the autumn landscape. It’s not every day you come across this picture-perfect scene.
What photograph are you most proud of?
EASILY my ‘Love on the Lake’ photo, taken at Crom Estate.
I came across two swans forming the classic heart symbol against the beautiful Gad Island backdrop.
I only had a few seconds to capture it, and I doubt I’ll ever get another opportunity to do so. It really was a once in a lifetime shot!
What type of camera/equipment do you use?
I USE a trusty Canon camera with five different lenses, all providing a different purpose and range.
I also carry a tripod and some lens filters, and most recently a new DJI drone.
It can be a lot to take around with me, but if I ever leave a lens behind, I can guarantee it’s usually the one I’ll need when out and about!
How would you describe your photography style?
I WOULD consider my style to be quite creative – taking the photo is only half the work.
A big part of what makes the final piece is editing, and that’s when you can really add your own uniqueness.
I like my photographs to be vibrant and eye-catching.
What is your favourite subject matter and why?
MY FAVOURITE is most definitely landscape and wildlife. I love the challenge that photographing wildlife brings.
Animals are very unpredictable, and they don’t wait around to let you capture the perfect shot, so it’s always such a thrill when you do.
As for landscape, we’re spoilt for choice here in Fermanagh, so it makes it a real pleasure to photograph.
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