Our REALITY event with Pete Thomas was photographed by Scottish based portrait & wedding photographer, Holly Weslay. Read our interview with Holly and follow her work on Instagram. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a freelance photographer & creative apprentice for Creative Edinburgh, Kalopsia and Applied Arts.  I recently moved to Edinburgh from the west coast of Scotland to pursue my job as a creative apprentice but along the way I’ve been able to see more of the country, try some different kinds of photography and meet new, interesting people.

What inspired you to first pick up a camera?

Growing up in the middle of nowhere it was beautiful and isolated so there wasn’t an awful lot else to do although, my interest in photography grew when I was given an old camera and had the chance to play around with settings and styles.

What subjects are you most drawn to?

Again, living on the west coast I was drawn to the beauty of the Scottish countryside but wasn’t satisfied with taking photos of pretty landscapes for long.  I soon decided to merge the photos of landscapes with my friends and local artists who would pose in them.

What is your favourite gear you’re using at the moment? 

I am a loyal 50mm user and never leave for a shoot with out it. Also at the moment I’m trying some new things with an old eos 5 Canon film camera (which my grandpa says was the best camera he’s ever owned) and loving the effect it gives with expired film.

Can you list a few of your favourite creative resources?

Although I love to learn from magazines like i-D and Dazed, I feel I get most of my inspiration from the people around me whether it’s a talk from creatives or bouncing ideas around with friends doing all sorts of different jobs.

Please tell us the story behind one of your favourite photographs.

This was a photo taken down at the beach in Oban, Argyll with the Musician, Shanine Gallagher.  She was brave enough to run into the sea while it was chucking it down – we both agreed it was worth it afterwards.