the little wildflowers
Nature is innate in all of us. It is how we nurture its existence , that is how we truly connect. We now live in a world of technology and whilst this wonderful invention has its advantages it also brings new lifestyles. Work and home lives have changed and become increasingly fast paced, we are connected to a million people and equally distant from the community of old. I wanted my children to embrace technology but to find their roots in the natural world, to experience a childhood that I myself grew up knowing, before screens and the internet, To play, to appreciate and immerse themselves in nature. I wanted to extend this experience into a learning journey. To fill their world with nature books and give them opportunities to study the world around them.
My love of the outdoors has been influenced by many things in my life, in particular growing up on the coast with its inky black tide and rugged shoreline surrounded by the beautiful untamed countryside. My Mother has been a huge inspiration to me, her knowledge of the natural world is inspiring. I take much encouragement from the artwork of Jessie Wilcox-smith. Her illustrations are especially significant and meaningful & a constant source of influence. I adore old children’s books by authors such as Enid Blyton. There is something so very magical about the way she describes nature and I often have these words swirling in my head when I am taking photographs of the children. The idea that the images could be from a fairytale is incredibly exciting.
From being a young girl, I have aways loved flowers, they are a huge part of my personality. I can recall memories of being a child & being completely captivated by Dandelions. A pesky weed to some, yet to others they hold a sense of wistful, nostalgic charm. Dandelions provoke such a deep yearning for my childhood. The sentimental longing is so overwhelming on occasion, it makes me tearful. Food for our bees & butterflies & magical to our children. Folklore tells us that blowing the seeds off a Dandelion is said to carry your thoughts & dreams to loved ones. I do hope that’s true. Inspiration is all around us in nature. The eclectic mix of wildflowers throughout each season brings me endless joy. In Spring time acres of Ramsons engulf the path in the woods as far as the eye can see, creating an endless cloth of pretty, white lace. The scent is intoxicating; it seems to hang heavy & oppresive in the air, creating an invisible fog that gently lulls the senses, reminding me of a quote from one of my favourite books Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier:
If only there could be an invention that bottled up a memory, like scent. And it never faded, and it never got stale. And then, when one wanted it, the bottle could be uncorked, and it would be like living the moment all over again
Isn’t that wonderful? Such vivid imagery.
Flowers fill my home, on walls and fabric. I adore photographing them. The petals, the colours, the incredible way in which each bouquet is arranged. Telling their very own story. They are one of my very favourite things to photograph at a wedding. The ever changing landscape, flowers & weather play a crucial part in both my art and the words I write. I find the transition between seasons a compelling and essential element of our story and the images I create.
I have always adored photography and art but taking the step to have my own business has been amazing in so many ways. To be able to create and work with families, couples & brands has been a dream come true. Throughout my journey I have encountered many kind, creative people who have offered their support and guidance. Over the last few years I have developed a style which I feel is true to my heart but as always in photography I am forever learning. If I was to offer any guidance to people starting in the industry, it would be to stay true to what you love. I find when I am photographing something I adore, I am brimming with so much more creativity and happiness. I completely lose myself. This is your creative journey, you have to really enjoy what you are photographing, the rest is details.
Photography has been affected like so many other industries in these strange times. However, this quiet lull has given me a moment to breathe and collect myself. To re-evaluate my path and the direction to take in the future. I have recently started to record short films of families on their adventures in the outdoors and this makes my heart sing. I would like to end here with a piece of writing I feel signifies our love of nature and its incredible tonic for the soul.
“To exist, free in nature’s care. To endure its love & give one’s heart in return. To nest, shrouded & protected, much like the young of a bird. To dwell amongst the wild flowers & trees, quietly restful & safe from strife.”
Gemma McKell is a photographer and storyteller. She highlights the joyful celebration of natural childhood, evoking the very spirit of youth and wonder through magical imagery. Her photography and storytelling can be viewed at both @the.little.wildflowers and @blossoms.and.wren.