Petra Gatek

Portrait & Personal Brand Photographer/ Brand Consultant

My story:

I have always been passionate about photography. But my hobby became side-tracked when life got really busy and I had become an entrepreneur, running a successful and rapidly growing destination wedding agency. Then, at the age of 42, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and my life changed forever. As part of my therapy I began taking photos of other female cancer survivors. A spark soon ignited within me and I felt that I had truly found my purpose. Supporting other women on their journey and encouraging them to share their story and shine.

1. What do you love most about your job?

My mission is to empower women to share their authentic self through powerful and feminine photography. Elevate stories of incredible women and help them follow their dreams is filling me with so much joy.

2. Is there a photographer or artist that you admire most?

There are many photographers whose work I admire. It’s hard to choose only one. When I started with photography in my early twenties I was most inspired by Henri Cartier-Bresson “the father of photojournalism” and by legendary Czech street photographer Josef Koudelka. I also love the urban style photos and self-portraits from amazing Vivan Maier.

3. What is your favourite motto or quote in life?

I always like to read and get inspired by new quotes. Therefore, I am so pleased with my daily planner from Hello Day that provides a quote for each day.

One of my favourite quotes that I choose to put on my website is from Napoleon Hill: “ Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.“ It took me while to understand that there is never the perfect time to start.

4. What inspires you the most?

People and their unique stories. Travelling to different cities has been always a huge source of inspiration for me. When looking back at pictures, however, I noticed that there were hardly any sightseeing photos...only photos of people. I’ve always felt that it’s the people and their unique stories that make cities great.

My eclectic upbringing. Perhaps my passion for people was stimulated by growing up in multiple locations. I was born in Prague, grew up in Copenhagen and have lived in many different parts of the world including

San Francisco, Melbourne and Kuala Lumpur. I now live with my amazing man and our two gorgeous boys in cosmopolitan East London. I absolutely adore this part of London and find endless inspiration in the art galleries, markets, restaurants and, of course, amongst the vibrant local community.

5. How do you manage work life balance?

I see work as being integrated part of my life. I am very fortunate that I have created a business that I love. I think there is not a single day when each part of our life gets treated equally so we can speak about balance. I try to feel balanced and follow my self-care routine like 10 minutes daily morning meditation before the chaos of the day kicks in. I have learnt that as my self-care improved over the lockdown so has my business and my relationships.

6. What's the last item of clothing you bought from SUST?

I love my last purchase from SUST Style of Lisa Deep Rose Blouse from Valentine Gauthier. I have my eyes on new hoop earrings and the new Sasha summer dress. There are always so many amazing options so it is hard to choose!

Website: https://petragatto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petra_gatto/