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In this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson speaks with photographer and director Madeleine Penfold about her powerful journey into the world of photography and how she uses her craft to drive representation and social change.

Mads reflects on growing up without seeing herself reflected in the media and how that experience shaped her desire to create the kinds of images she longed for as a child. From her early years as a self-described tomboy in Manchester to discovering her identity and building confidence through university, Mads opens up about how photography became her voice.

Although she studied business at university, Mads always had a camera in hand and a deep curiosity for people. She shares how teaching photography at a summer camp in the US helped her realise the impact of visual media on self-worth and led her to make a lasting promise—to only create images that matter.

Angela and Mads explore how she broke into sports photography almost by chance, and how working with top footballers became a stepping stone to championing representation in the women’s game. From photographing Premier League players to advocating for proper visibility of women athletes, Mads discusses the power of storytelling, intuition on set, and the importance of building trust with her subjects.

Whether she’s on set with the Lionesses or documenting change in Gambia, Mads brings a deeply human approach to her work. This conversation is full of wisdom, warmth and practical insights for any photographer wanting to make an impact through visual storytelling.

Follow Madeleine’s journey as she creates the world she needed to see - and helps others see themselves in it too.

Takeaways

• Your personal story can become your creative purpose – Let your own experiences guide the kind of work you want to create.
• Photography can be a tool for social change – Use your work to challenge stereotypes and increase representation.
• Success isn’t linear – A squiggly career path can still lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.
• Trust is everything when photographing people – Building rapport and respect makes all the difference.
• Inclusivity starts behind the scenes – A diverse creative team leads to better, more authentic storytelling.
• You don’t need formal training to succeed – Passion, practice, and persistence are just as valuable as a degree.

Connect with Mads

• Website
• Instagram

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson is joined by British street photographer Dawn Eagleton, who has built a strong reputation for her honest and captivating street portraits. Dawn's approach is rooted in connection, authenticity and quiet confidence, making her images not only visually compelling but emotionally resonant.

Dawn shares how she first discovered her passion for photographing people candidly in public spaces and how her instincts led her towards a style defined by raw, unposed portraits. Throughout the conversation, she talks about how she overcame the fear of photographing strangers, the subtle cues she uses to read body language and why respectful interaction is often more powerful than asking for permission.

As Angela and Dawn explore the challenges and rewards of street portraiture, they also discuss the importance of eye contact, how to capture people in their natural state and how Dawn built up the courage to approach subjects in a calm and open way. Her thoughts on authenticity, presence and emotional awareness offer helpful insights for any photographer looking to work more confidently in public.

Later in the episode, Dawn shares the story behind her first self-published book Through the Glass, a collection of portraits taken through windows that reflect both physical distance and emotional proximity.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about street photography, looking to build confidence behind the lens, or interested in photographing people in a more honest and respectful way.

Connect with Dawn

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Takeaways

• Confidence grows with practice – street photography becomes easier the more you face the initial discomfort and keep shooting.
• Authenticity matters – unposed, candid moments can tell more powerful stories than staged portraits.
• Connection is key – a small gesture like a smile or nod can create mutual understanding and respect.
• Learn to read body language – understanding how people react helps you decide when to photograph or walk away.
• Your presence affects the picture – how you carry yourself influences how your subject responds, even if they don’t notice you at first.
• Photography is more than the image – it's also about the moment, the experience and the personal growth that comes with it.

Fujifilm

This podcast is supported by Fujifilm, one of the best-known photography brands in the world. Fujifilm’s award-winning X Series and GFX system cameras and lenses are suitable for all types of photographers and videographers. Each has been developed utilising the experience gained from more than 90 years in the industry, featuring unique film simulation modes that everyone knows and loves.

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In this inspiring episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson chats with photographer and ocean advocate Rebecca Douglas about the power of visual storytelling and its role in creating real-world change. Rebecca shares how her background in geography and marine resource management shaped her approach to photography and how she uses her images to inspire curiosity, build connection and amplify environmental causes.

From her early career in wedding photography to her work documenting the natural world and the people protecting it, Rebecca’s journey is a powerful example of following your instincts and letting purpose guide your path. She talks about the importance of being visible as a creative woman and how sharing your own story can be a form of activism in itself.

Angela and Rebecca also explore the responsibility photographers have when working in wild and remote locations and how to balance the drive to capture compelling imagery with respect for nature and the environment.

Whether she’s on a wind-blasted cliff photographing seabirds or working with charities like Whale Wise, Rebecca puts storytelling at the heart of everything she does. It’s a candid, thoughtful conversation that’s full of honesty and insight, and a reminder that photography isn’t just about the picture — it’s about the message behind it.

Takeaways

• Storytelling can be a powerful force for change, especially when used to raise awareness about environmental and social issues.
• Your background doesn't define your future - it's never too late to follow your passion or shift into work with deeper purpose.
• Authenticity attracts the right people - showing up as yourself in your work helps you connect with clients and audiences who value what you do.
• Nature is a collaborator, not just a subject - working in wild environments means respecting the elements and understanding your place within them.
• You don’t have to do everything - focusing your energy on one cause or area of interest allows you to make more meaningful impact.
• Photography is more than images - it’s about the message behind the picture and the story it tells long after the shutter clicks.

Connect with Rebecca
Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
LinkedIn

Fujifilm
This podcast is supported by Fujifilm, one of the best-known photography brands in the world. Fujifilm’s award-winning X Series and GFX system cameras and lenses are suitable for all types of photographers and videographers. Each has been developed utilising the experience gained from more than 90 years in the industry, featuring unique film simulation modes that everyone knows and loves.

Support the show