The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
MY LIFE MARGARET SORAYA
Margaret Soraya is a wild landscapes photographer who specialises in pictures of seascapes around Scotland’s island coasts, and an exponent of “mindful” photography. Her workshops on the west coast and Orkney have been selling out within minutes. See quietlandscapes.co.uk
First record bought?
Kate Bush, Wuthering Heights.
Book that changed your life? Quiet – The Power Of Introverts In A World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain.
Most expensive purchase?
My van, bought four years ago and which allows me to photograph landscapes easily and comfortably.
First job?
Dresser in a panto in a Manchester theatre.
Favourite time of day?
I am an early riser and love being out before sunrise.
Last time you cried?
A couple of weeks ago as I’ve been suffering for seven months with long Covid and woke up in pain.
Worst fashion faux pas?
I can’t say that fashion is my strong point.
Favourite holiday destination?
The Outer and Inner Hebrides, Orkney, and other Scottish islands I can get to.
Idea of holiday hell? Disney World, New York, London, Ibiza.
Biggest phobia? Crowded, loud places.
What are you watching on TV?
I don’t watch TV but I often watch Netflix series.
Favourite movie?
The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty.
How do you relax? Wild swimming.
Best advice you’ve been given?
To follow my intuition.
Who you last spoke to on the phone?
Being interviewed for a magazine article on seascape photography in the Hebrides.
First thing you did this morning?
Got up at 5am then went to Glen Affric to photograph the autumn colours.
Worst mistake? Losing myself.
Your inspiration?
The coast and waves are my inspiration for my work.
Would most like to meet...? American photographer Chase Jarvis.
Childhood crush? Michael Hutchence.
Weirdest fan gift?
Not weird, but my best gift was a flask from a bride I’d photographed.
Quirky habits? Travelling with a notepad and pen on the seat next to me so I can write down ideas and thoughts that come to me.
Worst meal?
Any lasting a long time and involving small talk.
What makes you laugh? Wild swimming with a friend.
Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?
Neither.
Beauty is?
People who are alive in enjoying what they love.