Mapp of London

Emma and I wear many hats: from designer and photographer to maker and workshop tutor. ​ One of my first passions was photography, strongly inspired by my father and my uncle, who were both talented amateur photographers. Growing up in Namibia and South Africa, I remember my dad always having a camera in hand, recording our childhood or the stunning African landscape. As a teenager I poured over magazines like National Geographic, Drum and Life, feeling transported to distant lands through the incredible photography. I longed to leave school and travel the world, taking my own photographs. Eventually I got the chance to travel to many wonderful countries. But life got in the way and instead of pursuing my creative passions, I ended up working as a lawyer in London. ​ The 2009 recession was a turning point in my life. Having been made redundant from my job in the City, I resolved to take the plunge and pursue a career that would make me feel more fulfilled. I decided to return to my childhood passion of photography. ​ It’s a decision I’ve never regretted as it has led to some amazing opportunities, from co-founding the London Photo Festival to having my work featured in publications including The Telegraph and the Metro. ​ It’s also taken me in directions I never could have anticipated. My frustration at having to juggle a bulky, unattractive camera bag as well as a handbag led me to create my own range of stylish camera bags and accessories. ​ Over the past few years, I’ve become increasingly interested in sustainability, with an emphasis on using eco dyes, natural resources and recycled material. I now run classes along these principles which have been featured in Country Loving and Breath magazines. These take places in my she-shed in Twickenham and range from Christmas wreath making to cyanotype printing – “nature's printing press” – a more eco-friendly form of photography that is particularly effective at capturing texture. ​ As a result of the pandemic, I’ve also started selling DIY creative kits so that you can try these crafts out in the comfort of your own home. It’s been gratifying to see these becoming so popular – my Christmas bauble kit appeared in the Metro and The Sunday Telegraph. ​ To see more of what I’m up to or to hear about the latest classes, follow me on social media.