MY JOURNEY
Hey it’s nice to meet you, I’m Laura Shimili Mears
Established in 2017, I love the opportunity to be creative every day
What I love the most about what I do is getting to know the people I work with, learning the stories we all have and capturing them creatively in photographs that will outlive us.
I have practiced in a range of photography genres and currently love working with entrepreneurs, founders and teams for Personal and Business Brand Photography.
I work from the studio in Tooting Bec but also in other locations in London.
I am a big believer in continuous learning, self-discovery and connection.
More about my Journey
What started as a passion, quickly turned into a successful gig!
I was born and raised in Albania, Tirana and have spent most of my adult life in other countries.
France where I lived for 7 years and went to University and graduated in Economics and Philosophy of Economics and where I bought my first camera!
London is home, where I live with my husband for the last 15 years with our 2 wonderful boys, Edward 12 and Elliot 9.
We have a cat Rocky! He is ginger and fluffy.
When I am not working you will find me, walking in our local parks. I sometimes take Rocky with me, he loves an adventure!
Before I was a photographer I was a marketer and still enjoy marketing. I love spreading the word and connecting.
My favourite self-care habits are walks, taking breaks during the day, switching off work completely and spending time in nature.
We may be a GOOD MATCH if:
1. You’re looking for more
This may be in the form of personal development, self-love, career, business and generally growth.
2. You want a strong brand identity
This I can help with by creating photographs of you, or your team or your business that will position you as an expert in your field.
3. You want to make an impact
I know great photography can help make you more visible and impact more people in your journey.
Find more RESOURCES
I have a number of guides that I would love you to have, download and read. And I would love your thoughts on them.
If you are a business owner and would like to connect with others, come and join “The Small Business Network, Tooting”
“What makes a great Headshot” Guide is free to download. You can do so by clicking on this link “What makes a Great Headshot Guide” and join my special VIP members group.
If you are starting out and are looking into marketing, “The 10 Most Effective Ways to start Marketing your Business Today” ebook has a lot of information and resources. Get your copy by clicking on “The 10 Most Effective Ways to start Marketing your Business Today”.
The bit about my training
Moving from careers is not easy but I did it by training with some amazing photographers.
I have trained in studio photography, headshots, outdoor photography, personal branding, product photography and families. I am fully insured as a professional photographer.
I was hugely happy when I received bronze merits from the International Portrait Masters Awards, for portraits submitted in 2021 and 2022.
I am also a member of SUE BRYCE EDUCATION an invaluable resource.
My Partners
I am a partner with Clapham Mums online magazine designed for mums, dads and carers with the most up to date information on events & activities in Battersea and Clapham.
I have also partnered with Lady Wimbledon, an online magazine and website about all things Wimbledon.
Recent Podcasts
I was excited to be invited to speak to some recent podcasts which I would love to share below.
The Engaging Marketeer and Fire and Forte is a passion project that is a platform for women in their 40s or more that are doing amazing things.
The Engaging Marketeer
The Engaging Marketeer has regular podcasts with business owners where they talk and discuss various aspects of the business owner life.
In my episode I share some tips on how to take a brilliant photo. Daren the podcast host is full of humour and is very engaging, I would recommend you listen in as there is something for everyone in his conversations with guests.
Fire and Forte
Fire and Forte started in 2022 by Hannah Maude, as a platform for women in their 40s doing amazing things!
On the website she shares “I kicked off Fire and Forte, celebrating women with this fire and strength, making things happen. Interviews to learn more and share their inspiring stories”.
I love Hannah’s mission and in our chat together we talk about how I turned a passion into a business and also my over 40s campaign.
I Look Forward To Meeting You Soon.