wedding fun at the prince - acland street, st kilda.

National Geographic Photo Contest 2011

Wow! I've been getting great press for an image that I entered into the National Geographic Photo Contest 2011. My photo of a joey kangaroo continues to get listed as one the best in the competition.

National Geographic Photo Contest - Editor's Picks - Week 5
Smashing Picture - "National Geographic: Crème de la Crème"
UK Mail online -"12 stunning photographs for National Geographic competition"

Suong and Robert's wedding - Stokehouse, St Kilda.

I think that wedding venues that are not wedding venues are often the best places for a wedding. This goes for most other parts of the wedding as well - photographers, florists, cakes, cars and so forth. Why do I think this? Well people who specialise in weddings tend to do things the 'proper' (read 'cliche') wedding way, and tend to cookie cut your wedding into shape.

Well Suong and Robert had a wedding that was also not a wedding. They got ready together, then meet up with me for a short photography session in the city, before heading to the fabulous Stokehouse in St Kilda for the ceremony and reception. The ceremony was short and sincere, with some great work by celebrant Janet Hussey, followed by drinks and a memorable Stokehouse dinner with lots of photos of the guests.

tasmanian indigenous kelp bowl

Photographed this incredibly beautiful kelp bowl last week. A rare handmade kelp water carrying bowl made by a Tasmanian/Bunurong Elder. If you are interested in buying one contact Sonia Murray at  www.nanganahealingcentre.com.au

The Atlantic - In Focus - National Geographic Photo Contest 2011

There's a bunch of great work to view here, including one of mine that made the list.
The Atlantic - In Focus - National Geographic Photo Contest 2011

a favourite shot from a current job

Been editing pretty hard over the last week, all while listening to lots of music in the office. Mostly rock from the 1970s - KISS, ACDC and some more recent stuff such as Foo Fighters and Dave Graney. Music's a big part of my job, it keeps my mind in check and also gets me away from the screen from time to time - the kids love a dance.

I am fascinated by moments during a wedding that highlight connection and energy. Pressure times often allow opportunities for such moments, like the one below, where the bride has just entered the church and is preparing for her grand entrance. Pretty pleased about the picture of the pope just behind the minister too!

Trish and Dennis' wedding - The Brighton Sea Baths and The Press Club, Melbourne.

On a recent Sunday around midday, family and friends climbed the stairs at the Brighton Sea Baths to be greeted by a stunningly decorated long table set for lunch. The food, the drinks and the setting were paramount, and incorporated into all this was, of course, a wedding. It was full of life. After lunch, as the evening approached, the party moved to the city and joined a smaller group for dinner at The Press Club. More fabulous food. It was great to photograph.