Portrush Photographer Among UK’s Best For Second Year Running

A Northern Ireland photographer has once again been recognised among the UK’s finest, securing a place in the Top 50 UK Wedding Photographers for the second consecutive year.

Lauren Chambers (35), owner of Portrush-based LIT Photography, has earned this prestigious accolade from Professional Photo Magazine.

For the past four years, the industry-leading magazine has compiled its Top 50 list through independent research, identifying wedding photographers across the UK who have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication over the previous year.

Selection is based not only on the quality of a photographer’s work but also on how they present their business, engage with their audience through their website and social media, and push creative boundaries to go above and beyond for their clients.

In its recognition of Lauren’s achievement, Professional Photo Magazine highlighted, “Her [Lauren’s] philosophy centres on the belief that wedding photography should honestly reflect the couple’s relationship.

“She advocates for natural interactions over staged poses, ensuring that her clients feel comfortable and true to themselves throughout the process. Her empathetic nature allows her to connect deeply with couples.

“In her work, Lauren emphasises the importance of preparation and communication. She collaborates closely with couples to plan timelines, suggest trusted local suppliers, and offer styling advice, ensuring a seamless wedding experience. Her commitment to authenticity extends to her editing process, where she avoids altering appearances, focusing instead on preserving the genuine beauty of her subjects.

“Lauren’s clients often describe her as a ‘happiness radiator,’ noting her ability to make them feel relaxed and comfortable. Her attention to detail and creativity result in wedding photographs that inspire both a local and international clientele.”*

What began as a personal passion has grown into a thriving business for Lauren, who lives in Portrush with her husband and two children. The name LIT Photography is a heartfelt monogram incorporating her own name and the initials of her children, Isla and Tyler. At its core, the business is dedicated to capturing natural, emotive moments infused with love.

Photography has been more than just a career for Lauren—it has been a journey of growth. She first picked up a camera eight years ago as a form of therapy during her recovery from postnatal depression following the birth of her daughter. Feeling socially anxious, the camera became both a creative outlet and a tool to reconnect with the world, allowing her to document her children against the stunning North Coast landscapes.

Since then, Lauren has built a reputation as a leading photographer, expanding her business beyond weddings. Last year, she hosted two retreats on the Causeway Coast, welcoming women in the industry from across the US, Canada, Europe, and the UK.

Reflecting on her place in the Top 50 list, Lauren said, *“I am so grateful for the recognition and to be named amongst an incredible line-up of talented photographers from across the UK once again, is incredible.

“I’m so keen to show that it is possible to chase your dreams as a woman and a mother in business.

“Eight years ago, I took a leap of faith in myself and have continued to do so ever since. I feel so lucky that I can do a job that I love every day and that I also have the opportunity to help other women do the same. Photography is something I’m so passionate about, especially capturing weddings. It’s a privilege to be invited into one of the most precious days in people’s lives and be trusted with their memories.

“In 2024 I photographed several weddings that really brought home just how important this job can be. One of those weddings took place in a cancer centre so that a family member, who didn’t have long left, could see the couple get married. This was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do; it is such an honour to share these precious and intimate moments with my couples.”*

She concluded, “Being a photographer is so much more than just taking a few snaps, and to be recognised for what I do feels incredibly special.”