1. How did you get started in photography and when did you start your business?
My interest with in
photography began around 11 years ago, when I bought my first DSLR, canon 10D,
and felt that since I had spent a small fortune, I should learn how to use my
new fancy gadget.
I started my business originally back in 2006, however at the time I was also studying, with two kids and one on the way, so I did take a little break (maternity leave) in 2008 and started with new business in 2009 and have been going strong since.
2. Where are you located? Do you have a studio space or do you shoot on-location?
I live in Melbourne
Australia, "the most livable city in the world". I have a beautiful
boutique shop front studio, that has been designed with new mum's and newborns
in mind. It's light and airy, yet comfortable and cozy.
.
3. What do you shoot with and what are your favorite lenses?
I am canon girl all the way! Have been since good old film days. My favorite lens is forever changing, and at the moment I have gone back to the 24-70 2.8L for newborns, but I also love my 50mm 1.2 and 85mm 1.2.
4. What drew you to newborn photography? Do you photograph anything else?
Firstly, because I LOVE newborns. I would have babies forever if they didn't grow up. The second reason, I have found I love working in a studio and that I could be more creative with newborns and maternity, as my subjects weren't constantly running around! Finally, it made it easier for me to concentrate my marketing efforts and funds in to one area.
Occasionally I do shoot families and children, but usually these are babies that have grown with me, or referrals from my loving clients.
5. How would you describe your style? Where do you find inspiration?
I think I go through stages, but for the last 4 years I have been more attracted to posed, stylized, artistic, studio sessions especially for newborns and maternity.
For older children I still enjoy outdoor, backlit late afternoon/early morning sessions.
6. Have you taken any photography workshops/training?
I love learning, always
have and always will! I enjoy education in all forms, being it formal, in
person workshops or online courses.
In my past life I completed my Bachelor of Science Degree, Masters in Business and eventually Applied Diploma in Photography. I have attended a few workshops with the best in the industry, including, Barb 'Jinky' Uil, Nicole Van, Kelley Ryden and Baby as Art. I also own a 'million' (ok, exaggerating just a little) CreativeLive courses and often have it in the background whilst I am editing.
7. Where do you like to shop for props? Do you have favorite vendors?
Most of my prop shopping
is done in brick and mortar shops, and I spend many hours shopping for unique
props and don't really have a single favorite vendor.
8. What are three things you wish someone would have told you when starting out?
I think when I first started almost 10 years ago, like many others in the industry, I had rose colored glasses on with lot's of romantic notions about making a living from photography. I do wish someone had told me it's a tough industry to thrive in, but here I am 10 years on, thriving, so maybe I should be glad no one did. Other than that I really don't know as I have enjoyed my learning journey and probably would do it all again, exactly the same way.
and work very hard. I'm confident success will come if you're all in
9. What are your favorite things about NBP.com? How long have you been a member?
I love the community feel about NewbornPhotography.com and the wealth of information available.
10. Please share with us your Top 5 Favorite Images. Why are they your favorites?
It's always difficult to pick only 5 favorite images to share. All these images are my favorite, not necessarily because they are great images (although one has won a couple of awards), but because of the connection and relationships I made as part of my interaction with these clients. They are all beautiful clients and many have been with me for years.
11. What is your photography site and NewbornPhotography.com url?
Website | Facebook |
NBP Profile | Twitter | Google+
12. Lastly, tell us about YOU! Who are you other than a photographer?
Of course, like many here,
I am a mother ( of 3 beautiful kids) and a wife, but I think that's more my
role in life, one that I quite enjoy. I love traveling and I can't wait till I
can retire and spend all my time traveling the world. I also love food! If I
was a good writer, I would have loved being a food and travel critic, but I am
much better with my camera than my pen, so here I am, a photographer and loving
it.
Would you like to be our next Spotlight Photographer? Fill out our Spotlight Photographer form HERE! We look forward to featuring you!