Journal | Photography Stories & Tips by Sylvie Barredo

Welcome to the Journal, the photography blog by Sylvie Barredo. Explore stories, tips, and inspiration from maternity, newborn, family, and event photography sessions in South West London and beyond.

Single and Too Tired to Mingle – A Portrait Session with Author Coco Novak

When Mojca first reached out to me needing a cover photo for her new book, Single and Too Tired to Mingle, I didn’t know I’d end being part of something truly special.

She was instantly charming and warm over the phone — the kind of person you immediately feel at ease with. I couldn’t wait to meet her in person. And when we finally did meet for her portrait session, she was every bit as magnetic, clever, and hilarious as I imagined.

Mojca, who also goes by her pen name Coco Novak, needed a cover portrait for her book — a candid, confident, stylish photo that captured her personality and the spirit of the book. She wanted something modern, relaxed, and unapologetically herself. And we did just that.

Our session was filled with laughter, honesty, and a lot of heart. There’s something truly empowering about photographing women who are boldly embracing who they are — not trying to fit into anyone else’s mould, just showing up as their full selves. Mojca did that beautifully.

And the best part? Seeing the final book cover with one of the portraits from our shoot was such a proud moment.

Her book is a witty, heartfelt, and empowering take on modern single life — and I couldn’t be happier to have played a small part in bringing it to life.

If you're curious (you should be!), you can find Single and Too Tired to Mingle here:
👉 Buy the book!

Beyond her writing, Mojca is also the voice behind The Coco Novak Show on YouTube — a channel with nearly 20,000 followers where she shares candid, empowering conversations about modern life, relationships, and self-worth. If you haven’t already, definitely check it out: Coco’s You Tube Channel

And of course, scroll down to see some of the portraits from our shoot — including the one that made it to the cover.

Mojca, thank you for trusting me with this moment in your journey. You were a joy to photograph.

About Sylvie

I’m a professional photographer based in Wimbledon, South West London. Specialising in maternity, newborn, family, wedding, and portrait photography, I create timeless, natural images that capture genuine emotions and meaningful connections. My approach is relaxed and tailored to suit each family’s unique story—whether in the comfort of your home, outdoors, or in my Wimbledon studio.


I offer sessions across London and Surrey, including Kensington, Kew, Putney, Fulham, Tooting, Chelsea, Richmond, Kingston-upon-Thames, and beyond. Let’s create beautiful memories you’ll treasure forever.