Building an Inclusive Lens: Making Your Photography Business Accessible to All with Mel Groenewold

Camera Queens - Find Your Focus

Send us a text

Welcome back to Camera Queens | Find Your Focus, the podcast where we explore the captivating stories behind the lens. Today's episode is an extraordinary journey with the incredible Mel Groenewold. A true warrior, Mel's life took an unexpected turn at 17 when she faced the unimaginable challenge of losing both her hands and feet. But that didn't dim her spirit; instead, it ignited her creativity and resilience.

In this heartwarming conversation, Mel shares her deep love for art, and the transformative power of photography. From her family life to her empowering photo shoot experience, Mel's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Join us as we delve into the world of creativity, inclusivity, and the sheer joy of embracing one's true self. Let’s go!

In this episode we cover:

• Mel’s journey as a creative, and mother of two and the challenges and joys of family life.
• Mel’s preference for meaningful connections over superficial discussions.
• Mel’s experience with contracting meningococcal disease, leading to the amputation of both hands and feet at the age of 17 *Trigger warning* Struggles with self-worth and body image.
• The importance of embracing joy, and reconnecting with your inner child.
• Mel’s passion for running art classes for people with disabilities and focussing on the creative process rather than the end product.
• Changing perceptions of disability
• How to be more accessible and inclusive in your photography business

Resources and links mentioned in this episode:

• Ways to work with Belle: belleverdiglione.com.au
• Belle Verdiglione’s Instagram: @belleverdiglione
• Camera Queens Facebook: @thecameraqueens
• Camera Queens Instagram: @the_cameraqueens
• Discounts for photographers
• Mel Groenewold’s Instagram: @mel_groenewold
• Natalia Fidyka’s Instagram: @nataliafidyka
• Jarna Saunder’s Instagram: @daya_clarity

If you loved this episode, check out this link for more info on how to elevate your photography business and take it to the next level 🚀

Support the show

🎙Hey rad AF human, thanks for being part of the Camera Queens community. If you frothed over this episode, give this gal an ego stroke and hit the FOLLOW button. And if you really wanna get me rockin out to the tunes of Nirvana circa 1994 - leave me an Apple Review. A monthly human will win a 1:1 coaching call with yours truly valued at 10 million dollars. Make sure you screenshot the review and share it to Instagram and TAG me - otherwise I won't know it's yours and it may get lost forever in the Apple-verse. Okay hawt stuff, you're the best. Now go and tell yourself that in the mirror. Look into the mirror and say, I'm the GOAT and I'm a cool cat. Okay byeeeeeeeeee 🎙