A BIT ABOUT ME
- EXCERPTS FROM AN INTERVIEW WITH 'THE BRIDES' TREE' -
I was recently interviewed by Sally & Jen of The Bride's Tree.
What follows are the word-for-word responses I gave to each of their questions. Enjoy xx
GENUINE SMILES
CONNECTION &
COMPANIONSHIP
COMPANIONSHIP
WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHY
CHEESE & WINE
PLATTERS
PLATTERS
ADVENTURE
-
TAKING THE
ROAD LESS
TRAVELED
-
TAKING THE
ROAD LESS
TRAVELED
TELL US HOW (OR WHY) YOU BECAME A PHOTOGRAPHER:
Long story short - my husband and I knew the whole 'having kids' thing wasn't going to be a straight forward affair. After years and years (and years) of fertility treatment we were told that it was time to start considering our adoption options. We had decided that we were done with the whole IVF thing, so to escape it all, we booked a trip away to Bali.
A few weeks before we went to Bali I started to bleed. A LOT. For me - this was 'normal' - but it wouldn't stop. So...off to the doctors' I went. I nearly punched the doctor in the face when he suggested we do a pregnancy test -- but I'm glad I didn't. Within a few hours of doing a blood test - he confirmed that I was indeed pregnant. For 4 days in a row, I went back, repeated the process, and every 48 hours the HCG level doubled. 9 Months later...our world completely changed.
The only camera I had back then was the camera on my mobile phone. EVERYTHING and EVERY MOMENT that ever mattered to me was recorded on that phone. My pregnancy photos, our first moments with our baby boy, his first smile, his first attempt at sitting up -- it was all stored in a folder on a device made by apple. Of course, my intention the entire time was to print and save some of the photos on the phone - but I didn't act on those intentions -- and one day while grocery shopping -- I lost my phone. Cue tears - lots and lots and lots of tears. To make matters worse, we almost lost him a few months later at the age of 1 - he stopped breathing on us while we were camping 3 times. My husband had to revive him while I held him in my arms.
Unexpectedly, a few weeks later I developed a severe case of vertigo mixed with a really bad case of whatever was going around at the time, that ended up being the 2nd biggest, little miracle of our lives. Like our first pregnancy - it was tough the whole way through. At 24 weeks gestation I almost delivered him, and again at 30 weeks my body started laboring. But...he made it & he was healthy!
In the midst of all this chaos I had resigned from work and I had bought myself a camera with the surplus funds. No matter what, I wasn't going to let any more moments slip by. Through some of the greatest and the toughest times of my life, my camera has been my only outlet. It allowed me to say what I couldn't put into words. We have memories now that will outlast the memories in our minds. Our children are our world - they mean everything to us and if anything were to ever happen to us (or God forbid them) - I know now that our story and their story will have been told. I could go on and on and on about why I love being a wedding photographer so much...but essentially that's what started it all.
A few weeks before we went to Bali I started to bleed. A LOT. For me - this was 'normal' - but it wouldn't stop. So...off to the doctors' I went. I nearly punched the doctor in the face when he suggested we do a pregnancy test -- but I'm glad I didn't. Within a few hours of doing a blood test - he confirmed that I was indeed pregnant. For 4 days in a row, I went back, repeated the process, and every 48 hours the HCG level doubled. 9 Months later...our world completely changed.
The only camera I had back then was the camera on my mobile phone. EVERYTHING and EVERY MOMENT that ever mattered to me was recorded on that phone. My pregnancy photos, our first moments with our baby boy, his first smile, his first attempt at sitting up -- it was all stored in a folder on a device made by apple. Of course, my intention the entire time was to print and save some of the photos on the phone - but I didn't act on those intentions -- and one day while grocery shopping -- I lost my phone. Cue tears - lots and lots and lots of tears. To make matters worse, we almost lost him a few months later at the age of 1 - he stopped breathing on us while we were camping 3 times. My husband had to revive him while I held him in my arms.
Unexpectedly, a few weeks later I developed a severe case of vertigo mixed with a really bad case of whatever was going around at the time, that ended up being the 2nd biggest, little miracle of our lives. Like our first pregnancy - it was tough the whole way through. At 24 weeks gestation I almost delivered him, and again at 30 weeks my body started laboring. But...he made it & he was healthy!
In the midst of all this chaos I had resigned from work and I had bought myself a camera with the surplus funds. No matter what, I wasn't going to let any more moments slip by. Through some of the greatest and the toughest times of my life, my camera has been my only outlet. It allowed me to say what I couldn't put into words. We have memories now that will outlast the memories in our minds. Our children are our world - they mean everything to us and if anything were to ever happen to us (or God forbid them) - I know now that our story and their story will have been told. I could go on and on and on about why I love being a wedding photographer so much...but essentially that's what started it all.
IS AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT REALLY NECESSARY?
No. But they sure as hell are a lot of fun and they make your wedding photos a million times better! For realz! Not only do you get to know me - but it really is a great way to get used to having a camera around. My promise though...is that by the end of it - you won't even care about the camera. My camera is an extension of me...and what you soon learn is that after the first 10 minutes you stop seeing it altogether. All you see is me. Believe me when I say that every groom-to-be who was opposed to having an engagement session has ended up LOVING it! No word of a lie. I swear they turn into GQ model material. It's evident too that it makes the photography part of a wedding day super fun. All the introductions have been done. The nerves have been tamed. You get to know what angles make you look HOT and on the day you will just fall into complimentary positions without even having to think about it. More recently I had a 2nd shooter work alongside me who has been in the industry for 12 years (almost 3 times as long as I've been in it) who commented that he was surprised to see how naturally the portrait session unfolded. Yes, my work has a polished, editorial feel to it - but that doesn't mean that our time together needs to involve me bossing you into positions. I don't work that way. I direct...I will put you into amazing light and I will fix things like your hands and your chin...but I do it in a natural way. I honestly think it's my responsibility to make you feel and look your absolute best. Of course there will be candid imagery in your collection - there are so many parts of a wedding day that require zero direction...BUT...for those images that you want in an album or on your wall...snapshots will NOT suffice. Yep...I got a little off tangent there...but in short....if you have time to, than engagement sessions are the bomb!
No. But they sure as hell are a lot of fun and they make your wedding photos a million times better! For realz! Not only do you get to know me - but it really is a great way to get used to having a camera around. My promise though...is that by the end of it - you won't even care about the camera. My camera is an extension of me...and what you soon learn is that after the first 10 minutes you stop seeing it altogether. All you see is me. Believe me when I say that every groom-to-be who was opposed to having an engagement session has ended up LOVING it! No word of a lie. I swear they turn into GQ model material. It's evident too that it makes the photography part of a wedding day super fun. All the introductions have been done. The nerves have been tamed. You get to know what angles make you look HOT and on the day you will just fall into complimentary positions without even having to think about it. More recently I had a 2nd shooter work alongside me who has been in the industry for 12 years (almost 3 times as long as I've been in it) who commented that he was surprised to see how naturally the portrait session unfolded. Yes, my work has a polished, editorial feel to it - but that doesn't mean that our time together needs to involve me bossing you into positions. I don't work that way. I direct...I will put you into amazing light and I will fix things like your hands and your chin...but I do it in a natural way. I honestly think it's my responsibility to make you feel and look your absolute best. Of course there will be candid imagery in your collection - there are so many parts of a wedding day that require zero direction...BUT...for those images that you want in an album or on your wall...snapshots will NOT suffice. Yep...I got a little off tangent there...but in short....if you have time to, than engagement sessions are the bomb!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR COUPLES WHO MIGHT BE WORRIED ABOUT RAIN ON THEIR WEDDING DAY?
My advice is to 'Go with it! It's not like you have any power to stop it - so why waste any negative energy on something you can't change? I'm up for anything - so if you're keen to have some serious fun, and to get out there and make magic happen (that's likely to result in some seriously amazing images) - then let's do it!!! I do recommend a change of clothes though (and towels...and perhaps a matching pair of onesies to wear while your gear dries off) - but it'll be worth it!
WHAT'S ONE THING MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
There's a lot that people don't know about me. But here are a few things of significance that have shaped me into the person that I am today:
In high-school I was dubbed as being the world's biggest "square bear". The problem with this stereotype (in a small country town) was that it was far from an endearing label. The more awards I won (whether it be for sporting achievements, academic achievements, or even co-curricular, community service based achievements), the more boo's I got.
For a teenager it's soul destroying. I'd developed worry and stress related stomach ulcers that made me feel sick all the time - and at the age of 17, I weighed in at a whopping 42KG. I was playing 6 different sports all at highly competitive levels. Something had to give....and it was either going to be me....or my desire to just 'fit in'. I chose the latter.
Since then my resolve in life has been to 'run my own race'. I don't believe that you should have to 'limit' yourself and your abilities and your talents in order to gain acceptance and popularity with your peers. I've worked so damn hard to get where I am and I believe in celebrating that. I have embraced those things that make me, me - and on a subconscious level, Photography is my way of encouraging others to do the same. Authenticity and being "real" is so important to me - and perhaps this is why I love doing what I do so, so much.
A SIDE THOUGHT coming off of that is that popularity will only get you so far in life too. At some point, if you don't have the skills, or the know-how, or the ability (or even the talent), as well as a proven track record of dependability (that can then be backed up with years of success and positive feedback) - then what do you have?? TRUST IS EVERYTHING.
There are a lot of wedding photographers out there and many of them are just following the trends. Some will climb the industry ladder winning popularity contests by affiliating themselves with other "influencers"...while others will achieve success as a result of sheer hard work and merit. Don't get me wrong - I aspire to be one of the 'best' in this industry - but not because I sucked up to the right people. I care deeply about delivering nothing short of the best services and products and images to each and every one of my couples - and that to me is what makes me so different to everyone else out there looking for instant success.
For a teenager it's soul destroying. I'd developed worry and stress related stomach ulcers that made me feel sick all the time - and at the age of 17, I weighed in at a whopping 42KG. I was playing 6 different sports all at highly competitive levels. Something had to give....and it was either going to be me....or my desire to just 'fit in'. I chose the latter.
Since then my resolve in life has been to 'run my own race'. I don't believe that you should have to 'limit' yourself and your abilities and your talents in order to gain acceptance and popularity with your peers. I've worked so damn hard to get where I am and I believe in celebrating that. I have embraced those things that make me, me - and on a subconscious level, Photography is my way of encouraging others to do the same. Authenticity and being "real" is so important to me - and perhaps this is why I love doing what I do so, so much.
A SIDE THOUGHT coming off of that is that popularity will only get you so far in life too. At some point, if you don't have the skills, or the know-how, or the ability (or even the talent), as well as a proven track record of dependability (that can then be backed up with years of success and positive feedback) - then what do you have?? TRUST IS EVERYTHING.
There are a lot of wedding photographers out there and many of them are just following the trends. Some will climb the industry ladder winning popularity contests by affiliating themselves with other "influencers"...while others will achieve success as a result of sheer hard work and merit. Don't get me wrong - I aspire to be one of the 'best' in this industry - but not because I sucked up to the right people. I care deeply about delivering nothing short of the best services and products and images to each and every one of my couples - and that to me is what makes me so different to everyone else out there looking for instant success.
WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT FROM ALL THE OTHER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS?
1. Well, I'm REALLY good (like REALLY, REALLY GOOD) at what I do. There. I said it. Plus, I'm a tonne of fun to work with. BONUS!
2. Unlike most photographers, the number of weddings I take on is capped at 26. It's super important to me that every single couple who books me, gets my absolute best!
3. You will never find me competing on price (it simply won't happen). I won't undercut. I know how much it costs to provide premium products and a premium service - and I value myself enough to charge what I need to charge in order to run a sustainable business. I also believe in continually updating my skills - and in order to do that, I am committed to doing whatever I need to do (workshop and study wise) to stay at the top of the industry.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHING LOVED UP COUPLES ON THEIR WEDDING DAY?
The level of intimacy and vulnerability that they show - simply because they trust each other so much that they aren't afraid to let me see it (and capture it). I've worked with some seriously shy couples over the years who have honestly shown more vulnerability in front of the lens than some of the more outgoing ones because they're so into each other. It just goes to show that love and trust really is a powerful thing. I love my couples so, so much!!!
WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE COUPLES FOR THEIR WEDDING DAY PHOTOS?
* Fun-loving and easy going
* Loyal
* Honest to the point of being blunt
* Outgoing
* A person of integrity
* An idealist - who is also a realist
* A 'Dad Joke' Junkie - I am sadly 'just like my father' when it comes to funny puns and wit. Fortunately we both find our jokes incredibly funny - so it's not all bad (for us anyway).
* A woman of real faith
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love the whole process - but if I had to single one thing out - it's the way I feel when I'm taking photos. It's like I'm able to connect with people and myself and our surroundings on a higher level - and I absolutely love that! I love trying to capture images that portray what my eyes and my mind and my heart see.
I love the whole process - but if I had to single one thing out - it's the way I feel when I'm taking photos. It's like I'm able to connect with people and myself and our surroundings on a higher level - and I absolutely love that! I love trying to capture images that portray what my eyes and my mind and my heart see.
WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE COUPLES FOR THEIR WEDDING DAY PHOTOS?
You know what...I don't have a favorite place. Cliche as that sounds...I like the challenge of finding new spots that are truly unique. I do have a soft spot for epic spots (wide open spaces) with epic backdrops (like on top of a mountain in New Zealand, or in an open field at dusk) - but basically if the light is amazing somewhere, then that's where I'll shoot.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR COUPLES WHO MIGHT BE NERVOUS IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA?
Just chill and try not to over-think it. Unless you're a model who does this sort of thing for a living - than you're in the majority. It's normal to feel nervous. What's important though is that we work on getting to know each other better from the moment we connect. Trust is everything and the more you get to know me, the sooner you'll realize that I'm a fun chick to be around and that it's not nearly as scary as you thought it would be. Who knows...you might love it so much that you do end up becoming Australia's next top model ;) *wink* WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF A WEDDING DAY?
Gosh...I love it all...but if there's one part of the day that stands out - it's that moment when it's just the 3 of us. Not every wedding you're able to send the bridal party back to the venue early...but...if it's do-able - then I always send them back about 30 minutes before the end of a portrait session. This allows for intimacy. The pace changes, the way I shoot changes. My couples get to plug into each other without having to worry or think about anyone else. It's the only time on their wedding day they get to do this. Time permitting, I will stop shooting for 5-10 minutes. It's nice to know that I can give my couples that one moment on their wedding day - where it's just about them.
HERE ARE A FEW OTHER THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT ME:
** I have a Bachelors Degree with honors in Psychology. Before becoming a photographer I worked in both the public health system and in the public social welfare system for many, many years. A year before our first was born I was awarded a scholarship to do my Masters Degree. I was one subject short of graduating when I deferred my studies...and then....I found Photography.... You might also be interested to know that I have an advanced dimploma (so a step up from a Bachelors' degree, but not quite a Master degree) in Divinity and Church Leadership too.
** I love wake-boarding and snow-boarding. If I could be anywhere right now - it would be on the slopes!
** I'm a choco-holic. I also love tea and extra hot (note the 'extra hot') chai lattes.
** I am married to a surfer (not a famous one - but he's pretty hot all the same) and we have 2 little boys. They're amazing little humans.
** Cheese platters & grazing boards and a glass of moscato in hand = the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon sunset.
** I'm a terrible swimmer. I love water sports - but honestly...if I fall off than I will patiently wait for you to bring the boat back.
** I used to be a pretty darn good soccer player - until I broke my ankle.
** I went through a Lemon Meringue Pie phase about 8 years ago where I ate a pie every day for an entire year. #committment
** We love to camp; we love weekends away and we love big cook ups /gatherings and entertaining with our friends.
** I used to be a puppeteer - I know - totally random right!?!
** I love theatre but haven't been to a live production in WAY too long (I really need to change that)
** I used to be a Camp Quality Companion. My 'kids' would now be in their early 20s!
** To get through Uni I worked as a phlebotomist (aka a 'vampire' / bloodcollector / in pathology)
** I used to be the Social Director at College during my Uni years (yep - I was the one organizing pub crawls and golf (beer drinking) days as well as tonnes of other events for 300+ college residents at a time!!) - so if there's one thing I'm good at - it's throwing a damn good party!!
IF YOU KNEW ME THOUGH - YOU'D KNOW THAT I WAS:
* Down to Earth
** I have a Bachelors Degree with honors in Psychology. Before becoming a photographer I worked in both the public health system and in the public social welfare system for many, many years. A year before our first was born I was awarded a scholarship to do my Masters Degree. I was one subject short of graduating when I deferred my studies...and then....I found Photography.... You might also be interested to know that I have an advanced dimploma (so a step up from a Bachelors' degree, but not quite a Master degree) in Divinity and Church Leadership too.
** I love wake-boarding and snow-boarding. If I could be anywhere right now - it would be on the slopes!
** I'm a choco-holic. I also love tea and extra hot (note the 'extra hot') chai lattes.
** I am married to a surfer (not a famous one - but he's pretty hot all the same) and we have 2 little boys. They're amazing little humans.
** Cheese platters & grazing boards and a glass of moscato in hand = the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon sunset.
** I'm a terrible swimmer. I love water sports - but honestly...if I fall off than I will patiently wait for you to bring the boat back.
** I used to be a pretty darn good soccer player - until I broke my ankle.
** I went through a Lemon Meringue Pie phase about 8 years ago where I ate a pie every day for an entire year. #committment
** We love to camp; we love weekends away and we love big cook ups /gatherings and entertaining with our friends.
** I used to be a puppeteer - I know - totally random right!?!
** I love theatre but haven't been to a live production in WAY too long (I really need to change that)
** I used to be a Camp Quality Companion. My 'kids' would now be in their early 20s!
** To get through Uni I worked as a phlebotomist (aka a 'vampire' / bloodcollector / in pathology)
** I used to be the Social Director at College during my Uni years (yep - I was the one organizing pub crawls and golf (beer drinking) days as well as tonnes of other events for 300+ college residents at a time!!) - so if there's one thing I'm good at - it's throwing a damn good party!!
IF YOU KNEW ME THOUGH - YOU'D KNOW THAT I WAS:
* Down to Earth
* Fun-loving and easy going
* Loyal
* Honest to the point of being blunt
* Outgoing
* A person of integrity
* An idealist - who is also a realist
* A 'Dad Joke' Junkie - I am sadly 'just like my father' when it comes to funny puns and wit. Fortunately we both find our jokes incredibly funny - so it's not all bad (for us anyway).
* A woman of real faith
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