Debbie Todd Photographer
Meet Debbie Todd, a passionate photographer who rediscovered her love for photography and built a career that brings the real stories of underrepresented communities to life. “It’s really scary,” she shares – but with the support of Tracey Hughes from East Durham Solutions, she took the leap. Today, Debbie’s work is gaining recognition, proving that with the right help, you can turn your passion into something powerful.
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They tend to work with underrepresented and marginalised communities to help them tell their stories and make sure they’re seen. We need to be shown real people who exist, so that others feel valued and know they’re part of society. That’s what’s really important to me.“Do you want to be a model when you’re older?”
“Nah.”
“Why not?”
“Because it’s hard work.”I’ve always loved photography. I’ve always been interested in taking pictures. Growing up, I always used disposable cameras because I didn’t have access to much else. My nan used to have a camera and sometimes she’d let us use it, and I always wanted to do it as I grew up. But coming from a working-class background, I’ve always had a job. I moved out of home when I was about 18, so I never had the opportunity to go and study.
“Do a little smiley one now.”
Seventeen years ago I started up and did a few lifestyle family photo shoots, but it never really materialised. Then I basically just stopped and didn’t pick a camera up again for about eight years. I went back to studying for five years and ended up doing my master’s. People started to take notice of what I was doing. I’d been nominated for a couple of awards, had features in the press, and I thought: this is important work that needs to be done.
I’ve worked with Tilly since she was about three years old. She’s a big advocate for people with disabilities. When she was just 15 months old, Tilly had her hands and toes amputated after contracting a serious illness called meningitis.
Tilly also does some influencing. I think she sang at the BBC’s Radio 1 Big Weekend, she’s been on TV shows presenting—she’s done tons of things. She’s really incredible.
“Now give them a big squeeze. You have, like, a really big squeeze. Lovely.”
I think it’s really scary. I know a lot of people feel the same—the whole registering your business, building it up, taking that leap.