Guest Blog Emma - founder of Dopamine Daughters
Dopamine Daughters
Dopamine Daughters is a women-focused platform built by and for neurodivergent women. The brand’s core belief is that every woman is a
daughter, and every daughter deserves understanding, support, and a voice.
I am Emma, I am a mother to 3 children, I am in my 40s and I am Neurodiverse. I have recently created and founded Dopamine Daughters.
Dopamine Daughters is a platform focused on women and girls who are diagnosed, undiagnosed or self-diagnosed as neurodiverse. It aims to identify vulnerabilities and issues that may impact us as a demographic. I really want to focus on educating women regarding the impacts of neurodiversity so that we feel empowered to drive change.
I was diagnosed via the NHS later in life with Autism and ADHD. For me it was like the missing puzzle piece in the jigsaw that is my life, this is not to say that I needed to be fixed or that I was a puzzle to be solved, It is simply that I had lived life for years without the information or awareness of why I was different, or why I found aspects of my life so challenging.
The feelings this late diagnosis brought up was initially grief and shock, as I re-evaluated everything that I had experienced in my life, the failures and health inequalities that I had faced as an undiagnosed neurodivergent female. I reflected on the sadness I felt for the younger version of myself and wondered how different life may have been for me if I had been aware of my Autism and ADHD.
In 2021 it became apparent that my youngest daughter was struggling in all aspects of life and this was the start of our journey together. Like she was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD and then more recently she was diagnosed with Dyslexia. This really got me asking more questions and wondering what I could have implemented to assist me at key points in my life, such as motherhood, if only I had been aware of my neurodiversity’s.
I also suddenly felt the need to explore what services were available and accessible. I educated myself about the vulnerability’s neurodiverse women face, and I realised that discussions and acknowledgement on these topics were needed.
We are educating women on how to come to terms with being neurodiverse, how to be their authentic selves by unmasking and proposing coping strategies to assist them in staying regulated which is hugely important, valuable and needed. What wasn’t and isn’t being discussed in so much depth are the gritty more uncomfortable topics and vulnerabilities that impact us as a demographic, such as the link between neurodiverse women and abuse, this can encompass physical; sexual; and emotional abuse from a partner or non-partner.
The association between neurodiversity and eating disorders is not often touched upon. There are so many topics I want to talk to my daughter about and that I wish I could have discussed with my younger self. I now look at life in a more informed way, better prepared to ask myself, how these issues are likely to impact us.
I reflected that if I wasn’t aware of the risks posed then how could I possibly educate and empower my daughter to be an advocate for herself? In fact, if we were not aware of all the risks or the possible health implications and conditions that may impact us, then maybe there were other women and daughters out there who needed access to this potentially lifesaving information in a safe, accessible platform.
Throughout my lifetime I had completed several degrees and a diploma in higher education that specialised in stress management, midwifery and health visiting. I already had a font of information, but I was unable to relate it to myself or improve my own experiences, so this has been the driver behind the concept. I don’t want other women or daughters to suffer, certainly not in silence. I want to promote discussion on topics that impact us, I want to raise awareness.
I want to use my previous experience in healthcare and offer support, strategies and awareness. Becoming a mother is such an important time in our lives, I want to ensure that we are discussing how our neurodiversity may impact us. Let us discuss postnatal depression, being neurodiverse puts us at a much greater risk of suffering from this, what can we do to mitigate this risk or reduce it? Why are we not having these discussions? There is so much work that needs to be done to reduce the health inequalities in neurodiverse women.
I want Dopamine Daughters to assist in reducing these inequalities for all daughters who think differently.
There are so many positive implications of having Autism and ADHD. I want to celebrate our differences, and I absolutely plan to do this but ultimately, I want to improve our story, I wish I could have done this for the younger version of myself, butI absolutely believe it is possible to do this for our daughters.
Emma
NEWBORN BABY MODEL CALL
WELCOME TO JESS WILKINS PHOTOGRAPHY
This is now closed I’ve had enough interest
Interested in MY NEWBORN BABY MODEL CALL?
DATE:
WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER at 11.30 am
I am looking for a family with a newborn baby under 4 weeks old on 10/12/15 to help me create simple & beautiful baby images at my home studio in NR7, Norwich.
Please only apply for this model call if your:
- Your baby will be 5 days- under 4 weeks old at the time of the shoot
- Are happy for me to use these images on social media, website, and promotional emails
- Have not already booked a baby photoshoot with another photographer
- Available Wednesday 10th December at 11.30 for approx 30 mins
- Just baby and parents – sorry no siblings to attend for this model call
As a thank you for your time, you will receive 5 high-resolution digital images.
Click on the button below to register your interest.
Those that fit the criteria will be added to a name picker, and 1 family will be selected at random – I will do this by 20/11/25 or when I get more than 5 families apply .
Although the content day has a purpose, for me to get behind-the-scenes footage and images, it will still be a relaxing newborn shoot & totally baby-led!
Motherhood blog - Happy ½ Birthday!
Happy ½ Birthday!
Month Four: Adventure Awaits!
Margot’s fourth month was all about excitement! At just four months old she experienced her first holiday, and we flew to the gorgeous Dominican Republic. It was a bit of a risk, going on an 8-hour flight with a four month old and a nearly 4 year old, but Margot and her brother Albie were absolutely amazing! Of course, Margot wanted me to join her on the adventure, so we spent most of the flight walking around with her in the sling. She was so happy and excited for the fun ahead! Albie and Margot had a blast with all the entertainment, especially the pool. This will be a core memory for all of us.
Month Five: Living with Allergies
Things got a bit different in the fifth month. Margot’s allergies started to cause some worries, and we were concerned about potential reactions to dairy, kiwi, and peanuts. We consulted with experts like a dietician and our GP to try and figure out a plan. They recommended starting Margot’s weaning process early, around 4.5 months, to introduce her to different foods under controlled conditions prior to her allergy appointment in the coming month. We hope this will help reduce the risk of future allergies. Margot’s favourite foods right now are avocado, dairy-free yoghurt, and fruit – Yum Yum!
Month Six: Halfway To One!
Can you believe it? Half a year has already passed! These months have flown by, and I’m still in awe. How can my little girl be 6 months old already? This month has been pretty relaxed. We’ve been enjoying the weaning process, and Margot has already tried over 40 foods! This month has also made me realise how amazing Albie is as Margot’s big brother. Her face lights up every time he enters her sight, and he still gets the most giggles and the biggest smiles from her. His love for her is so comforting. I can’t wait to see this bond getting stronger and stronger as Margot grows up and follows in his footprint’s.
You can check out all my guest blogs here
and also see images from Margot’s latest session below – she is just getting more & more cute , and changing so much!
Why Book a Newborn Photoshoot & Why Book Early?
Why Book a Newborn Photoshoot & Why Book Early?
Due in 2025? Why book a newborn photoshoot and why book early? Let’s talk about it.
You get the right photographer for your family – when you choose a photographer for such an important moment in your life, you want to ensure you have time to choose the right person with the right style and fit.
As soon as someone books in with me as their newborn photographer in Norwich, they are able to contact me with any questions in preparation for their session, follow me on social media and read my info & style guides.
More Reasons to Book a Newborn Photoshoot
-
Precious details & moments
-
A lifetime of joy
-
Quality
-
Share the love
Precious details & moments
A newborn photoshoot is a great way to capture those early days of your baby’s life. The first few weeks fly by. A session will help you literally capture these memories for a lifetime.
A lifetime of joy
As your baby grows up, they’ll be able to look back at the pictures and remember how tiny and precious they were. Printing off images and creating albums of photographs are not only for you but for generations to come.
Quality
A professional baby photographer has the training, skills and equipment needed to capture high-quality images, but also ensure your baby is happy and safe.
Share the love
New parents are naturally proud of their new child. A newborn photoshoot is a great way, to not only capture your baby’s beauty but your portraits will make great thank you cards, presents for grandparents and also Christmas gifts
Book Your Newborn Photography in Norwich!
So, why book a newborn photoshoot and why book early? Now you know.
Book now and it’s one less thing to think of. I send a guide which means all your questions are answered and outfit inspiration is given. And there is time to shop for a few bits ahead of the shoot.
Save money by booking now and claim my early bird offer of £35 off any newborn package if booked before 1/11/24.
If you’re looking for a Newborn, Maternity, Cake Smash or Family Photographer. Then find out more by clicking the button below.
1/11/24
Photography Gift Voucher – Portrait Session Norwich
Photography Gift Voucher – Portrait Session Norwich
Gift vouchers for a photography session are a fantastic present for loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a baby shower present, birthday, anniversary, Christmas or Mother’s Day voucher, a photoshoot session is a great photography gift idea!
I am going to tell you about my photography gift voucher for a portrait session in Norwich.
Photography Gift Voucher
-
Do I Sell Photography Gift Vouchers?
-
How Much Do They Cost?
-
How do I order a photoshoot gift voucher?
Do I Sell Photography Gift Vouchers?
I often get asked do I sell gift vouchers, the answer is YES!
My relaxed, friendly approach as a family photographer ensures the recipient will not only have wonderful timeless photographs to cherish, but enjoy the experience!
My style is simple & relaxed, making the photo session an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Photography gift vouchers can cover all types of my sessions, from newborn photo shoots , maternity, cake smashes & woodland walks for example.
How Much Do They Cost?
I sell vouchers for the price of any of my packages.
This means the recipient has nothing to pay (unless they wish to upgrade and add extra images). Not every family factors in a photoshoot, gifting a package with digital images included will take the pressure off and make their day!
‘
How do I order a photoshoot gift voucher?
Use my contact form below
State what type of session you want to purchase
I’ll advise package options and costs *PLEASE note From 2026, I’ll be working Tuesday to Friday, with a selection of after-school, evening, and school holiday availability (perfect for woodland and family shoots).
Please ensure that all recipients can attend weekday appointments only, as weekend sessions are no longer available.
I will invoice and send the voucher and information via post / and or email
Photography gift vouchers are valid for 12 months
Ready to Purchase Your Photography Voucher?
Please ensure you read my terms and conditions before purchasing your photography gift voucher for a portrait session in Norwich.
Portrait vouchers are for non-commercial use only.
MATERNITY MODEL CALL
WELCOME TO JESS WILKINS PHOTOGRAPHY
Interested in MY MATERNITY MODEL CALL?
DATE:
WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER at 10.45 am
I am looking for 1-2 women to help me create simple & beautiful maternity images at my home studio NR7 – Norwich.
Please only apply for this model call if you:
- Are between 25 and 32 weeks (or there abouts) pregnant at the time of the shoot
- Are happy for me to use these images on social media, website, and promotional emails
- Have not already booked a maternity photoshoot with another photographer
As a thank you for your time, you will receive 5 high-resolution digital images.
I only need mamas for this content day – sorry, no partners or siblings for this shoot
Click on the button below to register your interest.
Those that fit the criteria will be added to a name picker, and 1-2 mamas will be selected at random – I will do this by 20/11/25 or when I get more than 8 ladies apply.
Christmas & Family Mini shoots 2025 in my Norwich home studio
Christmas & Family Mini shoots 2025 in my Norwich home studio
Christmas & Family Mini sessions
These sessions are 15 minutes long, the perfect amount of time to capture some festive & timless/ simple portraits.
Feel free to come in Christmas outfits/ jumpers/ pjs – you can also borrow my OH SO cute Santa hats & reindeer antlers
Please NOTE that mini sessions are suitable for babies aged 10 weeks old + upwards (not suitable for newborns under 10 weeks due to feeding on demand and short time frame)
Due to the size of my setup/ studio space, these sessions are for one family only
What does my package include?
- Up to 15 minutes in the studio (studio at Sprowston, Norwich, NR7)
- 3 digital images via download to print as you wish (approx 20 to select from)
- siblings only no extended family members
- £65 (£20 deposit, rest due on the day)
When?
November
Saturday 1st SOLD OUT
Sunday 2nd SOLD OUT
Friday 7th SOLD OUT
Sunday 30th – 1 SLOT LEFT
(extra images can be purchased after at £5 each)
This year’s Christmas setup is simple, with a cute Christmas tree, fluffy blankets, soft snowballs, and a white sleigh – see images below
Please note due to the (very white) light-coloured backdrops I ask all outdoor shoes be removed before we take the photos
The session can be split 50/50 between festive and normal portraits or if you wish to use the whole time for updated family/ child photos, that is fine too 🙂
Terms and Conditions
- The session is purely for immediate family and siblings, no cousins or family images will be taken. If more than one household attends your shoot will be cancelled
- The number of images is dependent on the little/s one on the day, but you can expect 20 images in your online gallery as a rough guide.
- Due to the time-limited nature of the session where a child may become shy or unwilling no guarantees are offered to provide a specified number.
- You can purchase any extra images for £5 each , 5 more for £20 (full upgrade £55). Images include print permission to print as you wish.
- The images will be sent via a download link / gallery download
- If your child becomes unwell or upset, we may reschedule at the photographer’s discretion.
- Due to studio size, I ask that only parents can attend (max of 3 adults per time slot.) and max of 4 children under 16 due to studio size
I can’t wait to see you in the studio
Jess x
*If you would like longer in the studio with no time restraints, more outfit changes, different setups and props, and more images in your gallery to choose from, then you can book a full length shoot off my main pricelist, please get in touch with any questions you have about this.
Pregnancy & motherhood blogger - 7 months pregnant blog!
7 months pregnant blog!
Hello third trimester! Wow I can’t believe I am already saying I am 7 months pregnant in my third trimester! Although I have been extremely lucky to not suffer with any sickness throughout my pregnancy I can’t say it has been a total walk in the park! Especially having a toddler around this time too, it’s definitely been a totally different experience to my first pregnancy but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Amelia’s so excited to have a baby brother or sister and that just makes it all worth it!
I’m now at the stage where sleeping comfortably is becoming a real struggle as well as the frequent toilet trips throughout the night! I’m sure it’s your bodies way of preparing you for sleepless nights with a newborn! Although I’ve done it all before I’ve soon forgotten about all the struggles you are faced with during pregnancy and postpartum! So needless to say I’m feeling equally excited and anxious as the date is fast approaching!
I had my 28 week midwife appointment this week which went well, they talked about my birth plan which I find difficult because I have the approach of ‘just go with the flow’ as long as baby arrives safely and healthy that’s all that matters. I had the same approach in my first pregnancy and I was so lucky to have a really positive birth with Amelia. It’s true what people say, you soon forget about the pain! Especially once your baby is in your arms, there really is no feeling like it. As we have kept the gender a surprise it just makes it even more exciting and more reason to keep pushing through that pain (literally!!)
We still haven’t fully decided on a name for either gender yet, we have our favourites which we luckily both agree on, I feel like we’ll be picking the name out of a hat at this rate as we’re struggling to pick a particular one out of our favourites! Maybe once baby is here we’ll see which name suits them best!
I can’t help but feel a bit unprepared as the due date is quickly creeping up on us, I feel like I’ve done this before I can do it again, but I keep saying to my husband what if I forget everything and obviously I’m very aware every baby is different so it could be a totally different experience this time, in my first pregnancy I read all the books and blogs to try and help myself prepare and I’ve not done any of that this time! My husband keeps reassuring me it will be fine and my motherly instincts will soon kick in, which I know is true, but I think however many times you do it feeling slightly unprepared is very natural!
I feel like once the baby is here I will cope just like we did the first time, but just knowing how different it will be with having a toddler aswell, I find myself watching others with more than child and try to take on board how they do it, how they make it look so easy! But maybe once I’m in the midst of it it will become like second nature, I think it’s perfectly normal to have all these feelings and worries as the date creeps closer, as well as so much excitement knowing just how special it’s going to be!
PLEASE CHECK OUT bECKYS FIRST BLOG HERE
Guest blog - 32 weeks twin pregnancy
