ABOUT BRIDGET CORKE | MASTER PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER IN Johannesburg
A Natural Storyteller Through Portraiture
My genuine interest in people, combined with a background in the humanities and a sharp artistic eye, makes me a natural portrait photographer.
As a professional photographer based in Johannesburg, I specialise in creating timeless, expressive portraits that celebrate individuality and connection. My studio offers a wide range of photography services, including headshot photography, maternity portraits, newborn photography, family portraits, pet portraits, and women's fine-art photography —each crafted with care, artistry, and intention.
20 Years of Experience and an International Master’s Degree in Portrait Photography
With over 20 years of experience, I hold an international Master’s degree in Portrait Photography from The Portrait Masters—one of only two in Africa - that form part of a global community of the world’s best portrait photographers. Every session is an opportunity to create something deeply personal, meaningful, and lasting.
My Story | A Journey into Portrait Photography
How Loss Led Me to My Life’s Purpose
One of the experiences that shaped my life was my mother’s passing in 1997. She was 64; I am now 58.
Her final words to me were:
“Bid, life is short. You are not the corporate type. Follow your creative passion. Do something with yours before it’s over.”
At the time, I was working in Johannesburg’s corporate world. Eight years later, my father passed away—on my mother’s birthday—with all his children at his side. The moment he took his final breath, I felt, through the sadness, a deep inner strength.
I picked up my camera and got to work. Some said I wouldn’t last three months—yet here I am, celebrating twenty years as a portrait photographer.
While I would give anything for the chance to photograph my mom—a moment in time I could hold onto forever—my greatest joy lies in giving others that opportunity every day of my life. Through my lens, I honour connection, emotion, and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments.
What began as a personal calling has grown into a full-time studio practice - capturing mothers and sons, mother and daughter portraits, and creative professionals seeking portraits that tell their story with authenticity and soul.
REFLECTIONS
Portraits of Family, Love and Legacy
A portrait study of my dad means the world to me. He passed away eleven months later. I would have loved to have captured my mom in the same way.
When I took this photo of my son in 2003, I knew he would have a priceless treasure. I wanted to make a career of capturing similar fleeting, fragile moments for others—and I’ve been doing this professionally since 2005.
Some of my most meaningful moments are reflected in my family portraits, personal projects, and Stolen Moments™ collections—each celebrating love, legacy, and connection.
My Madiba Moment
Many people have asked if I captured the photo of Nelson Mandela on my website. Yes—every single one, except for the ones of him and me. Sebastian, then six, and I spent half a day at his home.
I love the twinkly highlights of Mandela’s shoes against my boy’s bony feet. As Sebastian has grown older, the significance of that moment has dawned on him in all its fullness.
In my Madiba moment, I was giving instructions midstream—typical of a photographer.
My Four-Legged Family
I grew up with English bulldogs. I love this photo of me introducing Blossom to Sebastian in 2002.
I stole one of Blossom weeks before she died in my arms after a driveway hijacking. I believe the trauma was too much for her. Both experiences live in my bones.
Don’t be fooled by those looks—Venus had a heart of gold and was eternally loyal. She passed away in 2018, the day before her birthday, having spent most of her days sleeping at my feet.
Princess Leia crept into our lives seamlessly after Blossom died. The clown of the pack has since ascended to top-dog status—she flaunts both roles with no invitation.
Life, Humour and Gratitude
I’m blessed to live in a country of such diversity and privilege that the Big Five game animals are only 300km away. It's a pity I’m not particularly interested in wildlife photography—the lens is either too long or too short, and when you decide which to use, the moment is gone. I do my snaps, if only to tease my sense of humour.
My life is simple and privileged; I don’t take it for granted.