What Inspired You to Become a Real Estate Photographer?
I've been interested in photography since high school - in the days when DSLRs were too new to afford, and we used to shoot film and build pinhole cameras out of shoeboxes. When I started studying graphic design at uni, a friend introduced me to floor planning, and I did that for years, eventually moving into real estate photography. I've had many jobs in offices as a graphic designer but always come back to real estate - I love being in the field and taking photos!
Can You Share a Memorable Experience from Your Early Days in Photography?
I really loved the guys I worked for in Sydney. They were a small photography business, and I subcontracted for them. They showed me the ropes and put a lot of faith in me as their business was on the line. I loved the feeling when they would lend me gear, and I got to play with stuff way out of my budget. I also loved (and still do!) getting to see glimpses of people's lives through their homes.
How Do You Balance Personal Life and the Demands of the Photography Business?
Sometimes better than others! Working with my partner is amazing; I love the idea that we are building something together and can bounce off each other, making the business stronger. But we set strong boundaries for when it's time to turn work off and focus on play. Having a strong social circle in Newcastle and being active helps to switch off work mode as well.
What's Your Favorite Type of Property to Photograph and Why?
Oh, so many! My favorite shoots are usually when everybody from the architect to the builder, the stylist, and even the agent are in harmony - and I can add my own creativity to the mix. I feel like I am part of a team with the same goal: to create a beautiful space. Luxury listings are my specialty, but I also love any property that has a bit of charm or character. And properties with great exterior lighting for dusk shoots!
How Do You Stay Creative and Inspired in Your Work?
I always try to remember that if the job was easy, then you didn't put enough in. The best photos often come the longer you are in a space, and it should be challenging to find them! I am obsessed with the latest fashions in photography and furnishings, and I try my best to find the magic in each property I shoot.
Share a Story About a Particularly Challenging Photoshoot and How You Overcame It?
I recently shot a lovely custom-built property in Singleton, and it looked amazing until we got inside and realized it was a total bachelor pad - with terrible furnishings, games, strange art, and mess everywhere! The usual reel would include shots of each room; instead, I decided to create an artful reel with lots of detailed shots of the beautiful facade and finishes. I did a fair amount of photoshopping and even virtual staging for the interiors, and I (and the client!) was really happy with the result.
Do You Have a Favorite or Most Memorable Photoshoot?
I love shooting iconic homes in the streets of Newcastle. Recently shooting the Penthouse in the McCaffrey building was amazing - we dubbed it "The Best Apartment in Newcastle," and it sold for a record price, over 8.2 million. The feeling of shooting these properties, alongside all the media attention, is amazing, and it was so good to work alongside such a great team of professionals in their fields.
How Has Technology Changed Your Approach to Photography Over the Years?
It's amazing the leap that's happened since I first began shooting property back in 2013 - I originally began by just floor planning with a laser and sketchpad - but now I do it alongside photography with the iPhone app, taking me a quarter of the time. The other big change is the recent shift in AI tools for editing - generating anything in seconds. It's revolutionary to the industry - and I feel what will follow will be the biggest shift we see in photography. I fully intend on being at the forefront of this new era of photography - I feel like if used properly, the AI tools can slingshot creative minds into limitless potential.
What Advice Would You Give to Aspiring Real Estate Photographers?
Mistakes are crucial to growth. If you're not putting in blood, sweat, and tears, you won't get anywhere. Anything worthwhile takes time, practice, and hard work - and having trained others in the industry, I know it can take years to see results. Don't give up! And know that your work will be criticized again and again, but the less you take it to heart, and the more you can be compassionate and forgiving even after that, the more people gravitate towards you. A good mentor is also crucial to the first few years of development. They keep you on track, and I've found that generally, photographers have a good sense of humor to keep it lighthearted.
How Do You Handle Criticism and Feedback on Your Work?
Logically. I know that not everyone will like my work - and that's the way the world works. I am constantly scrutinizing my work and all aspects of my business and attuning them to the business climate. Mistakes are a natural part of moving forward - and criticism is great! It helps me to know how to do my job better. Building trust with my clients and listening to them is an integral part of my business philosophy.
What's Your Favorite Photography Project Outside of Real Estate Photography?
Travel Photography - and photo quests with friends. I still love photography as a hobby - especially if it's social. I feel photos are such a gift and love sharing them!
What's Your Dream Photography Project or Client?
I dream of shooting architectural buildings all day, every day! Traveling the world to work with different architects and giving free rein on creative expression. Oh! What a good dream.
How Do You Capture the Essence of a Property in Your Photos?
An interesting question. As a creative, it's hard to bring words to a process that happens naturally when I enter a home. I like to get a feel of the space, walk around, tidy, move blinds, turn off lights to check lighting, all before I set up. I like to chat with the owners about what they like and feel mutual trust and connection in the space. Just taking a bit of time to ground into the space. Some places need a lot of wide angles, some have more interesting details, and some have views, which I find bring a whole new approach to lining up a shot. I tend to overshoot properties with all these things - and have to spend a while in post culling images to create "the perfect reel." I love this idea - that the viewer will have the most pleasant experience as they scroll through all the little windows into the home. I have to say this might not be the most time-efficient method - but it's where I find the most joy in my work. I can definitely hustle when I need to as well!
//interview with a photographer by Bronte Lockwood 24