Soulful

That was the word Sharon used to describe the images she wanted of her children. Soulful, timeless black+whites. She took me to her and her family's favourite chill out spot, nicknamed Brekky Rock as they sometimes take their breakfast down there and just relax and enjoy each others company.

Sometimes the planets align to bring a session like this to fruition. Beautiful kids who knew exactly what their Mum wanted and were open to trying something new for me; a stunning location (right outside my back door, and one that I will definitely visit again); and a burning intensity inside me to create some of the most amazing images I have ever created so far.

To say that I am happy with these images is an understatement. They are, quite seriously, some of my most favourite photographs I have ever captured. Ever.

Enjoy these Sharon. And I extend a deep thanks to you for sharing your special spot with me. I promise to look after it xxx

Just Ace

Last year I was asked by Anna and Jan to take some photos of this special old dude. His 'dad' Shane didn't know about it at all, it was a special Christmas surprise for him. And I'm told there *may* have been some tears shed... Good old Ace is getting on in years and the ladies wanted a beautiful keepsake of their old mate to hold onto forever.

It's the first time I've done a doggy shoot, but I did love it. Ace was a beautiful model, and I loved him to bits.

Sunday Sun

One thing I absolutely adore about my job is seeing families grow and change from one session to the next. Seeing little kids go from shy toddlers to outgoing little pre-schoolers with more personality than I thought was possible for small children!

Regardless of the fact that I know this family really well, I'm still constantly surprised by how much the kids have grown... Paisley off to school next year, and Kirrilly conquering the known universe ;-)

This is seriously one of my most favouritist sessions ever (yes, it is a word. In the dictionary of Mandy - look it up!). Enjoy this preview Brooke and Rob, I was giggling so much at these images of your girls, they are awesome to the max. Love you guys xox

Holly is 6 months old now!

As most of my blog readers would know, I'm closely following the first 12 months of my dear little friend Holly, and would you believe she is now 6 months old??

To celebrate we had a shoot with all her family - aunts, uncles and grandies. I had the *best* time, and loved hanging out with all these special people (plus there was a feast for lunch, so that's always a bonus ;-) )

Enjoy these you lot. And happy half birthday Holly. Love you to the moon and back xox

Rhonda and Marion... a present for their mum!

I had a great shoot on the weekend for a wonderful family... Rhonda and Marion's mum is about to have a special milestone birthday, so both families got together for a lunchtime shoot in the park. I had a ton of fun, and even the grown ups said it wasn't as scary as they thought it would be!! Marion also mentioned that it's been a long long time since they had a photo of the four of them together... It is important to have family photos, and it's not as awful as you may think ;-)

Enjoy these guys... Gallery to come real soon xoxox

Holly 3 months | Melbourne baby photographer

Remember this little bean??

Well, lil Holly is now a little over 3 months old, and still as cute as a button. She’s one of those babies that just get cuter and cuter every single time I see her. Luckily I get to see her on a regular basis, as her Mumma is one of my dearest friends <3

We are doing a shoot for Holly every three months and when she turns one we’ll bound it all together into an album for her to treasure as she grows up and has kids and grandkids of her own.

Miss Holly, my dolly. Mwah xox

Lucy | Melbourne Child Photographer

This little chicken was a dream to photograph. So happy and content. Totally chilled. I just wanted to squish those gorgeous cheeks!!

Daddy had painted Lucy a mural in the backyard on the side of the house, and it was so darn cute. Not only that but she had the cutest little quilts, handmade and retro style toys and little adornments in her bedroom, I wanted to stay and photograph her all day long!

I had trouble just choosing a few for the preview today, so I hope you enjoy these Alissa and John! Talk soon xox

Happy families | Melbourne family photographer

This is actually 2 families, about to become 1, with Bob and Sandra getting married in October. Look how cute they are together, nawwwwwww!!!

It can be quite difficult having a family photo session with just adults. More often than not they feel uncomfortable and embarrassed. I say patooey to that! Be yourselves, ham it up, give mum the bunny ears! I don't mind. And even though you'll feel a bit goofy at the time, trust me you won't regret it when you see your photos.

Enjoy xox

Photo Business Bootcamp

This past week I had the amazing opportunity to co-host Liana Hall's Photo Business Bootcamp here in Melbourne. Three days of soul-searching, business planning, number crunching, photographing, laughter and tears. I had an amazing time and feel so very privileged to have been a part of it and to have the opportunity to meet Liana, who is not only a fabulous photographer and awesome business woman, but also a truly lovely person.

A massive thanks and shoutout to my fellow biz bootcamp survivors: Jessie - co-host and amazing friend, Hannah, Hayley and Rita for sharing your stories and allowing me to get to know you. I had a great time with you all.

On the last day we went into the city to shoot a high fashion bridal session with the beautiful Sarah, and also Jessie's daughter Chelsea. An awesome way to finish an inspiring and eye-opening 3 days.

Jan PAD - day 13, 14, 15 & 16...

Halfway there :-D This photo-a-day project is really showing how boring my life is huh??

Day 13 - got home from the Creative Photo Workshop at 11pm and promptly remembered that I hadn't taken my PAD!!! Eek. So I snuck into Ivy's room with a torch and snapped this one while she slept soundly, bless her:


Day 14 - A boring day at home for me and Ivy while Elliot was still away. We didn't do much at all, but had a nice girly day at home painting our nails and reading books. I love these ones of her "reading". Early reading is a real treat to witness.. she babbles away to herself, pointing at the words etc.:


Day 15 - My boy and his big cuz came home from the country. All four cousins had a fun evening frolicking together, chasing kangaroos etc:


My kids:


My niece and nephew:


Day 16 - we had some visits from old and very dear friends today. This gorgeous girl is currently living with her equally gorgeous new husband in Germany, but they've been here for a few weeks visiting family and friends. Mario flew back to Germany today, while Layla has a couple more weeks in Australia. We had a lovely relaxing morning eating pancakes, drinking tea and playing Uno. I'll miss her terribly when she leaves again, but thanks to facebook she's never too far away: