Photography, Self-Doubt and Saying Yes: Building Folio Creative

In this episode of Dorset Business Matters, I’m joined by Beth, founder of Folio Creative — a personal brand photographer and content creator working with female founders across Dorset to elevate their online presence with confident, warm, story-led brand visuals.

Beth started her business in 2020, right in the middle of COVID, after finishing a photography degree and finding the traditional career path had basically vanished overnight. Instead of waiting for opportunities, she created them. Doorstep shoots, small local makers, side hustles turning into real businesses, and a steady climb built on showing up, building trust and learning as she went.

We talk about:

• Starting a business with passion, but no clue how business works

• How networking helped Beth learn faster than any course could

• Why Instagram is still her best lead generation tool

• The reality of being a solo founder and pushing through self-doubt

• Building a reputation that creates referrals over time

• Creating and hosting sold-out events for female founders

• What it really takes to grow when your work is personal and relationship driven

• The long game: freedom, flexibility, travel, and building a business that supports a life

This is a thoughtful, encouraging conversation for anyone starting out, feeling behind, or wondering if they’ve got what it takes. Beth’s message is simple and powerful: say yes, learn fast, and back yourself.