Croydon Photography Forum: Dottyjojo in Conversation with Teemax

The Croydon Photography Forum is delighted to welcome photographer Joanne, better known to many as Dottyjojo, for an evening of conversation, storytelling and photographic inspiration with Teemax.

A long-standing and much-loved member of Lenses of Croydon, Joanne has been part of the community for many years, sharing her work, supporting fellow photographers and encouraging others on their own creative journeys. Her warmth, humour and refreshingly honest approach to photography have made her a familiar face within Croydon's photographic community.

Joanne's journey into photography was anything but planned. By her own admission, she "tripped and fell into it, arms flailing and head spinning". What began as an unexpected hobby evolved into a successful photography business and a creative outlet that transformed the life of a self-described shy introvert.

Affectionately known as Jojo by her friends, she has built a reputation for her natural, creative and quirky approach to photography. While she jokes about having had a "relationship non-starter" with buildings, landscapes and wildlife, she found her true calling in people. Today, her work focuses on events and portrait photography, where she is able to capture the energy, emotion and stories that unfold in front of her lens.

Photography gave Joanne something she never expected: confidence. The camera became a passport to adventure, creativity and human connection. Her passion lies in documenting those fleeting moments when people reveal something genuine about themselves, moments that often pass unnoticed by everyone else.

Over the years, Joanne has photographed everything from intimate weddings in Lyon to Notting Hill Carnival, the largest street party in Europe. Along the way, she has developed a distinctive style that clients describe as natural, creative and deeply personal, with an ability to see beyond the ordinary and tell compelling visual stories.

In this special conversation with Teemax, Joanne will share her photographic journey, the lessons learned from turning a hobby into a profession, the challenges she faced along the way, and why storytelling remains at the heart of everything she does. Expect an honest discussion about creativity, confidence, finding your voice as a photographer and the moments that have shaped her path.

Whether you are an experienced photographer, an enthusiastic beginner, or simply someone who enjoys hearing authentic stories about creativity and personal growth, this promises to be an engaging and inspiring evening.

Join us as we celebrate one of Lenses of Croydon's own and explore photography, people, storytelling and the unexpected paths that can lead us to doing what we love.