A MOTHER who quit work due to childcare costs has turned her hobby into a business.
Tanya Davies, 37, of Shotton, took up photography to give her an interest outside of being a full-time mum.
But she never imagined her new pastime would see her open her own studio.
“I had my second son and, quite honestly, I had to resign from my job at MBNA Bank in Chester, as the childcare costs for two children were so expensive,” said Tanya, who lives in Llewelyn Street, with husband Jeff and sons Adam, six and Rhys, five.
“I was at home all of the time with my two little boys, which was fantastic but I felt like I needed to take up an interest outside of being a mum.
“I decided I would invest in a new camera and do an evening course at Deeside College.”
Tanya then completed a diploma with the Photography institute and started uploading her snaps to facebook.
She helped out a friend who was photographing a wedding and enjoyed it so much she wanted to try it out herself.
“I did my first couple of jobs for free to expand my portfolio and gain experience,” said Tanya.
“Fortunately, people liked what I photographed and very soon was I taking paid bookings.
“In 2010 I took the plunge and became self employed.”
Next she decided to branch out into children’s portraits.
“I invested in some lighting equipment and began working from home,” said Tanya.
“I was very fortunate to have friends with children who didn’t mind me taking photos of them so this enabled me to practice and, once again, getting enough word-of-mouth recommendations to start earning a living from my photography.
“As the business has grown, I decided that working from home was becoming difficult at times, as I used my dining room to set up my home studio.
“Therefore, in November 2012 my husband and I decided it was time for me to take the next step in my career and look for premises.
“Both of my boys are in full-time school now which allows lots of free time during the week to work from the studio.”
Last month Tanya proudly opened her studio on Connah’s Quay High Street, at the back of Motorworld.
“It’s small but, it’s a start and I am enjoying working with other local businesses, many of them stay at home mums just like me and networking between us to try to spread the word about my new venture,” said Tanya.
“I am also looking forward to being able to accept work experience students from the local high schools.
“My first student is helping me in April.”
For more information visit www.tanyadaviesphotography.com