I never thought I would be someone who would enter the Photography Industry Awards. I have entered ‘open to the public’ awards and won ‘People’s Choice’ but to be judged by my peers and those with so many accolades in the industry scared me. I was a wedding photographer that liked to produce images that made my clients smile, it wasn’t about being an artist winning awards.

I thought the images that won were always those that didn’t represent my style. To me they were a bit over the top with regards to their editing so it didn’t resemble a photo any more. Then the tide turned and an awesome photojournalistic photographer I know showed me his Gold Award winning image. It gave me faith in my ability to also produce Award quality images with my relaxed, candid, sometimes quirky and fun style!

This year I decided it was time to take a leap of faith and enter the AIPP NSW/ACT Professional Photography Awards. It seems my leap paid off as I received 4 awards out of the 7 images I entered! I scored 85, 84 and two 80s. My highest scoring print was of a Bridal Party at the Mint and received a Silver with Distinction Award. One of the judges said it reminded him of the Annie Leibovitz Vanity Fair shoots with celebrities – this is exactly the look I was going for so I was super excited to hear my vision was shared.

What did I get out of entering the awards other than some pretty certificates to hang on the walls?

1. Recognition from my colleagues and industry that I am producing professional quality work.

2. I have the ability to produce Award Winning images = bonus confidence boost.

2. A thirst for learning more about fine art printing and producing images that look like pieces of art to hang on the wall.

3. A renewed energy for working on personal photo projects to continually stretch my creative vision.

4. A greater appreciation for people who have a different style to me and how that can benefit how I approach my photography.

5. A stronger network with great photographers and opportunities to work on joint projects in the future.

For those photographers who are questioning whether you should enter, I say take that leap of faith and learn along the way!

 

Cottages amongst the forest, lakes with the sun setting over the hills, a book barn to party in, and a ceremony that leaves not a dry eye amongst the guests. This described Kristelle and Mark’s celebration 11 days ago. The weather was perfect – cool breeze with the warming sun.

Dress: Brides of Sydney – Designer “Allure”  /  Flowers: Susan from True Love Wedding Florist  /  Hair Artist: Tamara Finn – Teased Hair by Tamara  /  Makeup Artist – Helen Giovas Sotiropoulos  /  Minister – Pastor Nathan McLean  /  Ceremony – Little Forest Country Cottages  /  Reception – Bendooley Estate  /  Location photos – Little Forest Country Cottages and Bendooley Estate  / Suits – Just For Him in Beecroft  /  Bridesmaid Dresses – Fashionably Yours in Wahroonga  /  Stationery – all designed by the bride /  Cake by Tracy Henry from YUM Cakes, Cookies and Craft  /  Jewellery – Lovisa /  DJ – Bride’s cousin  / iPod and Church musicians for the ceremony.

think most photographers would agree that Summerlees is their favourite venue to photograph in the Southern Highlands. Erin and Alistair told me they only needed to look at one venue because they fell in love straight away and I can see why! I love the Colonial style buildings mixed with the English rambling gardens. There is a peacock and chooks. There is a beautiful winding road leading into the property and owner, Patty is absolutely wonderful! When Erin put on her dress and looked at the camera I was astounded, was this lady a model? Her eyes just captivated me! The whole day went perfectly and Alistair received non-stop clapping for his amazing poem!

Wedding dress by Henry Roth  /  Flowers by Annette’s Florist  /  Makeup by Yvette of Ethix  /  Venue – Summerlees Estate – Cottage  /  Shoes by Panache  /  Alistair (the groom) designed the invitations and stationery  /  Cake by Bev – I do Cakes  / Bunting by Erin’s Mum  /  All other handmade items created/collected by Erin, her family and also Patty at Summerlees.