Leaping from the world of advertising into her own photography business in early 2016, Lauren Setterberg put down her copywriting pencils to capture some of life’s most beautiful moments.We chat with Lauren about her business neighbourhood
How did your business start? 
While living in London in 2008, I was given a point-and-shoot camera and it was love at first click! Upon returning to South Africa, I bought my first DSLR and took it along with me wherever I went. I secretly dreamt of becoming a photographer, but the timing only felt right earlier this year. After working in advertising as a writer for 12 years, I upgraded my gear, created a website and started booking shoots.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
When my boyfriend and I moved into our cottage in Winston Park, I was still working as a copywriter in central Durban. At the time, I wondered if I’d ever be able to work from home because I had always dreamt of editing pictures in a cottage “up the hill”. It’s so calm, inspiring and pretty.
How did you find your premises?
Online classifieds. We were searching for something humble with character and when we saw a rental listed as “The Cottage”, we knew we had to check it out.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
Our home is surrounded by tall trees and flowers, with cute little hedges and seasonal blooms that are always catching my eye and inspiring future shoots.
Who are your neighbours?
We’re fortunate to have quite a few friends who live nearby. One couple runs a design agency, so we’re often talking shop with them, and others are high school friends. Winston Park is a very close-knit community and everyone looks out for one another.
What is your shop footprint/traffic?
Most of my clients are based in the Upper Highway area, although I was fortunate to shoot in the UK last month.
Do you have any expansion plans?
We would love to build our own home, and expand to create a studio, filled with gorgeous natural light.
Do you operate online as well?
Absolutely. Like many small-business owners, I have a very conservative marketing budget, which is why I’m so grateful to be living in the digital era. Nearly all of my bookings have stemmed from word of mouth or online connections. I also share my recent work and thoughts on my website and social media channels.
What’s your most popular item?
Families tend to book the most and those are always a blast. I’ve recently started shooting weddings and I love shooting couples, as well as creative portraits for women.
082 446 6698
Words: Cath Jenkin | Images: Lauren Setterberg Photography
