My journey & experience

 
 

A bit about my journey…

From Juggling Two Businesses to Embracing Motherhood

Ten years ago, my world changed when I welcomed my daughter into this world. I was already a step Mumma to two beautiful kids, but was yet to experience those early all consuming years of motherhood. At that time, I was running not one, but two businesses - a thriving photography venture and a successful product-based business with a swimwear range that spanned a decade.

Before motherhood, my days were a whirlwind of managing these ventures along with a three-day-a-week job. The birth of my daughter (and a few years later again when my son was born) became a turning point, prompting a shift in priorities. I yearned to be present for every milestone, to be there for the school pickups and drop-offs, and to immerse myself fully in the precious moments of motherhood.

Balancing Act

Despite the challenges, I made a conscious decision to continue pursuing my creative dreams and contributing to my family's financial well-being. Juggling motherhood, photography, and the demands of daily life, I managed to not only be present for my children but also maintain a near full-time income. The secret? A passion for photography that fueled my journey.

Portrait of Sophie by Kylie Mills.

A little bit more about me and my experience in the photography industry ..

I began my journey in photography by studying at Sydney College of the Arts, Sydney University, where I earned a Bachelor of Visual Arts in Photo Media. During my university years, I gained practical experience by assisting a renowned film photographer both on location and in the studio, which laid a solid foundation for my career.

Following graduation, I spent five years at an aerial photography company, where I played a crucial role in managing operations and editing photos while overseeing client relationships and accounts. This experience sharpened my skills in both technical aspects of photography and business management.

Transitioning to the wedding and portrait sector, I served as a production manager at a prestigious studio, where I honed my craft further as a photographer. Subsequently, I led the photography team at a prominent kids' talent agency, capturing dynamic and expressive images that showcased young talent.

For the past 18 years, I have owned and operated my own photography business, where I've diversified my portfolio extensively. From weddings and family portraits to capturing the intimacy of births and pregnancies, as well as documenting charity events and creating compelling commercial campaigns, my work spans a wide spectrum of photography genres.

In addition to my work behind the camera, I've also had the unique experience of appearing in numerous TV commercials, stills shoots, and photographic campaigns for major Australian and international brands alongside my family. This dual perspective provided me with invaluable insights into both sides of the industry. I also captured all my own swimwear campaigns and visual content for my own swimwear label for 10 years.

My contributions to the field have been recognized through interviews on Snap Happy TV series and as a guest on the Bokeh photography podcast, where I've shared my expertise and passion for photography with a broader audience.

Anyway enough about me for those that got this far! I want to hear about you and your creative dreams! Reach out and say hi!


You were honestly so kind and very happy to just listen and give feedback and advice where you can, I appreciate that and it’s honestly just what I needed.
It was soo worth it. I like the way you are so approachable.
— Sean Drury, mentoring student.