From Kindness to Creativity
My Journey into Photography with Eva Nemeth
One evening last November, as I sat with my mum—recently diagnosed with terminal cancer—I scrolled across an Instagram post by Eva Nemeth. She was promoting a silent auction for Maggie’s, a charity supporting those affected by cancer, and had donated a month-long photography course as part of the fundraiser. I’d long admired Eva’s work, known for gracing the covers of leading gardening and home magazines and books like Seed to Bloom by Millie Proust and Rachel Siegfried’s Cut Flower Sourcebook. Her generosity struck a chord, especially as Maggie’s had been a resource for many patients I’d supported during my nursing career.
On impulse, I placed a bid, motivated to support the charity and seize an opportunity to improve my photography skills. Having forgotten all about it, weeks later, I was surprised to learn my bid had won! By then, Mum’s condition had deteriorated, and Eva graciously allowed me to postpone the course until September.
Eva’s warm and encouraging teaching style immediately eased my nerves when we finally connected. She guided me through the basics—aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO—advising me to start simple and experiment with photographing the same subject using different settings. Her step-by-step approach made all the difference, helping me grow more comfortable with my Canon EOS R6 Mark II. Later, after a recommendation from Eva, a 50mm lens transformed how I captured detail and depth.
Each session was tailored to my progress. Eva reviewed my photos, offering constructive feedback on composition and light. She emphasised the magic of early morning and late afternoon light and encouraged me to trust my instincts. By the final session, we had covered photo organisation and editing, making me confident that I could continue exploring photography.
Learning photography has become deeply meaningful, allowing me to document the unique beauty of flowers and foliage through the seasons. Eva’s kindness and expertise have ignited a new creative passion, and the camera now comes everywhere!
If you’re considering photography, I wholeheartedly recommend Eva’s workshops. Her thoughtful teaching style inspires confidence, especially when you’re just starting. Visit her website to learn more or pick up her book, Photography Notes from the Garden, for practical insights.
Thank you, Eva, for your generosity and for helping me discover the magic of capturing beauty through a lens.
