In Focus: Tamsyn Morgans On Creativity, Craft and Community
Tamsyn Morgans is a true creative visionary. With an incredible eye for detail and a deep appreciation for both the story and the final image, she approaches every project with passion, authenticity, and an innate understanding of people.
Having worked with Jarrolds on some of our most memorable campaigns, including Christmas 2022 and Autumn/Winter 2023, Tamsyn brings an unparalleled ability to weave narratives through her styling and photography. She doesn’t just capture a scene—she captures the feeling behind it, drawing on history, texture, and light to create something truly special.
Her love for the creative journey is infectious, and she brings everyone along with her, making the process as meaningful as the result.
What first sparked your passion for photography, and how did your journey lead you to where you are today?
I’ve always been creative, but my journey into photography really started in the early 2000s when I got my first camera and began taking pictures of my children. In 2012, I launched my blog, which was all about home and vintage styling, capturing carefully composed scenes and setups. I’ve lived in my house for 11 years now and have renovated it myself, using photography to document the journey and the beauty of its original features. Over the past decade, I’ve honed my skills, focusing on vintage finds and textiles, styling and photographing them in a way that tells a story.
My career has been wonderfully varied—I’ve worked as a booker at Sandra Reynolds, as a makeup artist for Norfolk Magazine, and in production for large-scale shoots. My styling career actually started ahead of my photography, and I was fortunate to have worked for Matt Keal, who shared his knowledge and expertise. With 30 years of experience across different creative fields, I now bring everything together in my work, with photography at its core. My images have been published in Home & Antiques and Reclaim magazines, among others. I’ve tried many creative paths, but I’ve found what I love most.
Norfolk’s landscapes, light, and people are so unique. How has living and working here shaped your approach to photography?
My home has been the foundation of my Instagram and blog, allowing me to share my aesthetic and style. While Norfolk’s coast and incredible light are important, it’s really the people and the creative community here that have shaped me. Norfolk has a wonderful network of creatives—recommendations and word of mouth are at the heart of everything we do. In fact, my introduction to Jarrolds came through the owner of Spinks Nest, who recommended me for the Christmas 2022 shoot.
What has your relationship with Jarrolds been like over the years, and how does it fit into your story?
I moved to Norwich in 2000, and Jarrolds has been a constant presence in my life ever since. It’s always been part of the shopping experience here, and through working on the Christmas 2022 and Autumn/Winter 2023 campaigns, I’ve gained a real appreciation for the journey behind the brand. One special memory is buying my daughter her first Chanel lipstick there—Jarrolds offers that rare combination of exceptional service and personal connection.
Portraiture is such a personal and expressive art. What do you aim to capture when photographing someone?
I’m part of the Norfolk blogging community, alongside incredible women like Paula Sutton, and I know that many people aren’t entirely comfortable in front of a camera. I love the challenge of making someone feel at ease. As women, we can be so critical of ourselves, but I want my subjects to see their authentic selves in my work. It’s a collaborative process—sharing the journey makes the final image even more meaningful.
Are there any Norfolk-based locations, studios, or natural backdrops that you find yourself returning to time and again?
Absolutely! Felbrigg Hall, especially the grounds, is a favourite of mine, as is the Old Vicarage in East Ruston, which has beautifully renovated gardens and a great lunch spot.
Sourcing pieces is a huge part of styling. Can you tell us about some of your go-to Norfolk boutiques, designers, or vintage spots?
I love rummaging for treasures at Arminghall Car Boot and Looses Antique Centre. TW Gaze auction house is another favourite for finding unique home pieces. Norfolk Reclamation which is instore is fantastic, and I always keep an eye on Nkuku at Jarrolds. It’s important to remember that the journey to finding the perfect piece is just as special as the item itself.
How do you balance storytelling with aesthetics in your work? Do you feel Norfolk’s creative scene is shifting in any particular direction?
Balancing storytelling with aesthetics is always a challenge, but I think a strong creative vision allows for adaptability. I’m drawn to pieces and places that have been made or curated with love—whether that’s through colour, props, or lighting. Norfolk’s creative scene is constantly evolving, shaped by its landscape and a steady influx of fresh talent. With amazing educational facilities here, there’s always new creative energy pushing things forward.
What local artists, makers, or creatives inspire you?
I adore Belynda Sharples—her studio in North Norfolk is a treasure, and her floral paintings in defined colour palettes (especially turquoise and mint) are just stunning. I had the pleasure of photographing her in her artist’s apron, and I absolutely love her work.
If you had to plan the perfect style-focused day in Norfolk, where would you go, what would you shoot, what would you wear, and what would you do?
For fun, I’d definitely start with food—probably at Thornham Deli. For photography, I’d head to Waxham, exploring the sand dunes with my kids. It’s a place full of memories for me.
Favourite Norfolk location?
Waxham—full of memories and seals! Also, Great Yarmouth and Scroby Sands with dunes, the wooden boardwalk, the deckchair huts and the Hippodrome. I love the nostalgic vibe with strong elements from the ‘kiss-me-quick’ seaside holiday vibe to the glamour of some of the lights on the amusement arcades especially the Flamingo!
Best Norfolk shop for finding inspiration?
Sue Ryder Vintage—there’s always something special to uncover, from gifts to homewares.
Coffee or cocktail? And where’s your go-to spot for it?
Cocktail, for sure! A smoky margarita from Bar Cerdita on London Street for their Margarita or a visit to Hawthorn on St Benedicts. I also want to try the Arboretum on Benedicts Street. If the door is shut, you have to check the candle in the lantern above the front door and if it is burning, they are serving. Its small, curated cocktail menu looks really special.
A Norfolk view you’ll never get tired of?
St James’ Hill on the edge of Mousehold Heath. The way it overlooks the whole city is magical, especially at sunrise or sunset when the mist rolls in, leaving only the cathedral visible.
Speaking with Tamsyn is like stepping into one of her beautifully styled photographs—thoughtful, full of character, and effortlessly inspiring. Her passion for storytelling, history, and creativity is woven into every detail, and it’s clear she brings people along with her on the journey. Whether she’s behind the camera, sourcing the perfect prop, or uncovering hidden treasures in Norfolk’s creative scene, her discerning eye and warmth shine through. A conversation with Tamsyn feels like catching up with a stylish but wonderfully down-to-earth friend—one who leaves you seeing the world with a little more beauty and imagination.