serenah photography

nudist

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:12:54 EST

Continuing on with project cats I was lucky enough to photograph a house full of Sphynx. These are one of my all time favourite cats so I was so excited not just at the chance to photograph some but to actually meet one too. They are so amazing, almost like little people with such wonderful fun temperaments. So confident and full of energy, I wanted to sneak a few home with me. Thank you to http://www.sphynxstar.webs.com/ for this wonderful opportunity. I cant wait to return.

boots & bonnie

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:03:28 EST

With "project cats" I came across Boots and Bonnie. As you can see Boots came as a very polished model - the diva of cat modelling. I would be standing looking for my next prop/setting, you would then look for Boots but she had taken off to do her thing. It only took one holler "Boooooots" and she would race inside with a look of "Im here, were do you want me? Lets roll". Bonnie on the other hand was very very shy and hid under the bed to stay clear of strangers. But I managed to get one.

peiradise

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:36:36 EST

As you all know I am filling my portfolio with cats. When I put out a call for cat models I was contacted by Jennifer who mentioned she had 12 of all different breeds. I wondered why someone would have so many cats but it all made sense when I packed up my car and headed to Peiradise - Paradise for Rescued Shar Pei. I was greeted by 12 Peis all at my feet wanting to say hello and get a pat. Jennifer formed Peiradise to save Shar Pei in pounds or shelters, and since has taken in a few cats too who need a home. How would I describe Jennifer? Passionate (tick), compassionate (tick), kind (tick) and to some people alittle dog crazy (tick). The Shar Pei is an ancient breed who were bred as guard dogs and who rely on human interaction. The breed do not cope well in shelter environments and Jen opens her home to keep these guys safe until they can find new loving homes. These dogs have a fab life living on this big beautiful property with Jennifer's constant attention and devotion - it really gives you a sense of realism to "rescue" and why people do it. Jen thank you so much for opening your home to me and my camera. You're an amazing person with a heart of gold. If anyone is interested helping Jen in giving a loving animal a home or want to know more about what she does. You can find her on Facebook under Peiradise - Paradise for Rescued Shar Pei or email peiradise@bigpond.com

buddy the burmese

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:11:05 EST

Meet Buddy a gorgeous 8 month Burmese kitten. I am doing a cat project to fill my portfolio with some more cats due to various image request for more cats from me. I really don't know why I don't work with cats more as I find them so much fun. Buddy's owner contacted me when they knew I was looking for cats. When I walked into Buddy's home I was overwhelmed with such a lovely family. They were so excited to have Buddy photographed and he was a bit excited all the attention was on him. Buddy was such a little acrobatic rocket and I think I missed a few shots from laughing so hard at him and his clowning. Thank you so much to Julie & Billy for letting me into your home and helping me photograph such a cute character. I look forward to returning when Bud is older.

happy halloween

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:59:18 EDT

Meet the very lovely Pascall and Squarlie. Two Cornish Rexes that a friend recently rescued. As you can see this family is very into halloween and thought no better time to come over and photograph two very fitting cats while halloween celebrations were in full swing. I have a serious soft spot for Rexes. They are one of the best cats to photograph, not your average cat - almost dog like in personalities - just so divine. I want one!

shake, rattle and roll

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:14:16 EDT

OK so I finally managed to blog the SImon and Tommy fun. Talk about a pair of clowns. Constant wrestling and ankle tackles and Simon does likes a good game of "stacks on".

happy birthday simon

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:19:01 EDT

On the 21st of September my chubby little Simon turned 1 year old. It has been 6 glorious months of owning Simon and learning all about his breed. He has been the most delightful comedian of a dog ever to grace my life and I could not of asked for a more joyful perfect dog. I absolutely adore you Simon, you are one in a million, and may this be many more birthdays to come.

simon and a hat

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 17:51:09 EDT

Awhile ago now I found this hat in an old antique store. I have never really done anything with it except a self portrait (would you believe a very long time ago I did Marching. I was totally rubbish at it and only participated as you got to wear really cool outfits). So doing a clean-out yesterday this rolled out at me and I thought what a perfect hat for young Simon. This hat is not the easiest to fit and kept rolling to the side. Simon at first, was not impressed but when he realised the cheesy Kabana was flowing he worked out it wasn't so bad. To top this shoot off with utter frustration. I have somehow lost all my custom camera settings. Grrrr, so this shot took alittle longer then usual with me having to reset and as you can see Simon decided to take a nap.

it's in the draw

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 03:41:18 EDT

I had a bit of time today to finish off the draw series. Are you all just a little bit excited Ralph made an appearance? I think Simon might be turning into a bit of a Diva as he was not happy about Ralph being in his shots.

tex

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 01:22:29 EDT

I have photographed Tex before with a session but this time I am cat-sitting him for the weekend and took my camera with me to get some more photo's as you would have to agree with me he is one fine looking cat. I do love the Devon Rex as a breed. They're like little dogs in cats bodies.

where's ralph?

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:30:00 EDT

I know I have been focusing on Simon a lot of late and not many photo's of Ralph coming through. I promise to do some more with him soon. I have been giving him a much needed holiday from the camera. Simon on the other hand seems to be loving the camera. While I had Ralph in the case he stood there barking at us and as soon as Ralph jumped out he scurried into the case for his turn. This Bulldog is one seriously funny little character.

the bulls

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 00:39:19 EDT

One of my favourites at the Ekka is the cattle show. These beasts are truly magnificent. You can see the farmers take great pride in their animals and so well cared for and you always know your in the cattle yard when you see the crowd and the smell. They are surprising calm gentle creatures. judged like dogs with structure and movement. Absolutely love them.

a prized bird

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:51:46 EDT

The Ekka is big fun festival that alot of Brisbanites look forward to every year. It's pretty much where you get to see and eat the best of the best Queensland has to offer. The big draw card for me is the animals. People take so much pride in their award winning specimens. Here I found myself in the chicken section. There were ALOT of chickens to get through. It was very loud and slightly smelly but what funny little creatures. Unusual? Perhaps. Interesting? For sure. So for my first blog of a few - I give you the best looking birds Australia has to offer.

dogs and things

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 07:36:18 EDT

Making my way deeper into the Ekka lead me to the cats and dogs and other random bits and pieces. The British Bulldogs had a slot on that day. Unfortunately there were not too many entered but they all had the exact mannerism as young Simon - like sleeping through a rampage of people and noise without a stir. Then was the cats. I was quite taken with all this Bengals ribbons. Seriously, check them out. He would have to have his own pool room if not he needs one. Then off to the petting zoo where you have hundreds of over excited children loosing their minds trying to trap a goat or a goose for a cuddle. Though most of the animals are herded into a corner trying to avoid these children its great to see kiddies interacting with animals they would not usually get to be around. You can even watch chickens hatch. How cool is this?

the dog that spat the dummy

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 02:30:41 EDT

I was out Saturday morning walking Simon. Letting him run wild in the dog park when a young man came up and commented to me with these charming set of word strung together "he really does have a face only a mother could love". It's a comment we hear on a regular basis so water off a ducks back. Driving home I got thinking about this comment. We all adore our own animals and children even though to some, they look like they could of taken a round with the ugly stick - so how do I portray this in a shot? As I was driving passed an antique secondhand store this wonderful pram was sitting outside for sale. I screamed on the brakes and $$ later pushing it down the road to my car. Simon thought he was king sitting in there getting pushed around into position. So here you have it - my series "a face only a mother could love".

This reminded me of times kids in prams have poked their tongue out at you... we have all had this happen right? Or perhaps it's only me that children are repelled by.

three little piggies

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 20:26:39 EDT

I think this could be my cutest blog post ever. Two day old Guinea Pigs. The mum is called Popcorn and the three little babies are yet to be named. The lighting situation was a challenge and the session was very quick to avoid scaring them too much - but how much sweetness can you get in one little pot of goodness.

the perfect family

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 07:20:49 EDT

Most of you know I dont shoot alot of people especially not "family" like situations. Unless you have 4 legs and furry I would never agree to a shoot. A few weeks ago I photographed Tommy the lovely Poodle x. His family John and Wendy invited me back to do a family shoot. I said yes because I adore the mum of this family. For the past 10 years they have lived and renovated this magnificent house. This house means alot to them and they wanted some keepsake images due to just recently selling up to move on to bigger and better adventures. John and Wendy would be what I call "the perfect family".... I secretly want them to adopt me. They are this gorgeous, happy and loving family that were so easy to shoot and as you can tell in the photos alot of fun. I thank John and Wendy for letting me into this wonderful families life to capture them at their best.

I was even supplied with my own camera assistant (unknown to Neil). As you can see Neil was quite impressed with his role of holding and handing me my lenses. He did volunteer for the job. Though, I dear say Neil will not be giving up his day job any time soon to become my camera hand. But thank you for your help Neil - you were extremely efficient.

simon and his shoe fetish

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 06:39:47 EDT

Since I have had Simon he has easily chewed his way through 8 (maybe more as I have lost count) pairs of shoes of various kinds. His thirst is for thongs - though he will pretty much give anything a good old chew. His fetish has gone as far to finding a large disregarded old leather boot on his walk to be carried all the way home, by him, to chew in the comfort of his backyard. Because of Simon I'm pretty cautious not to leave shoes around and throw all my shoes in an untidy pile in my wardrobe. Its a mess and finding shoes can be an issue. The other morning I was in this ridiculous rush to get out the door and would you believe I put on odd shoes. I walked around all day not realising. When I think back of all the places I visited - people must of thought I was nuts! But my theory is - as I had no idea what I had done - I totally wore my shoes with pride and perhaps people thought this was my fashion statement?! Because of my messy shoe pile trying to keep them away from Simon I am totally blaming this on him. Hopefully one day soon Simon might grow out of his shoe fetish.... though as I am sitting here writing this - he is trying to chew on the shoes I am wearing.... sigh!

lionel

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 01:35:03 EDT

Introducing Lionel the very large British Blue. I absolutely love British Blues and was honoured to photograph Lionel. He is quite the cat that loves his food and his home comforts. Very affectionate boy who was a challenge due to most of the shoot he either wanted to be right next to you or sitting at his food bowl. We managed to capture a few of him not velcro-ed to my ankles.

tommy

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 04:32:43 EDT

Meet Tommy an 18 month old Poodle x. I met Tommy and his wonderful family over a year ago and have been meaning to do this shoot for sometime. Either weather or just busy lifestyles became obstacles for us. Finally we pushed for the shoot and what a joy Tommy is. I was left alone with Tommy and we both had so much fun trying out great areas in this amazing house they live in. Tommy totally hammed it up for the camera. Though we thought at the time he needed a clip to show his eyes - I think it's even better with the shaggy hair everywhere. Tommy's owners were so impressed with his shoot they begged me to return in a few weeks to do a family shoot of them all. This will be out of my comfort zone but I couldn't think of a better family to start with.

We managed to sneak in a few of George. George is 16 years old and a bit of a grumpy old man. I did not want to disturb him too much while he was enjoying his sunbaking time.

my doughy bulldog

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 22:07:40 EDT

Simon is just over 9 months now and though his body is maturing unfortunately the brain is not. He is quite possibly the doughtiest dog I have owned. I'm sure when I teach him something new it pushes other things out of his brain. To name a few things I have caught Simon doing - chewing on rose bushes, hanging upside down off the couch in a failed attempt of Parkour and dipping his paws in pots of moisturiser to run off and eat. Obedience school is a challenge. Im sure Simon just attends to eat his lunch and socialise but has no idea why I take him there every week. Though Simon is a bit spesh I would not have it any other way. He is just delightful with a faultless nature. I absolutely love photographing him. He is so interesting with his amazing expression. Im looking forward to many more photo sessions with you my handsome man.

the impossible - blog 2

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 01:32:03 EDT

I hope your all not sick of seeing puppies because there is more. Once playtime was over we moved onto the serious stuff of Serenah Photography. I have wanted to do a puppy bullmastiff group shot for sometime but I had no clue how impossible the idea was. Puppies did not want to co-operate. But you know what? It totally made the images with the chaos and shows the personalities of each puppy.

mum time - blog 3

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:27:08 EDT

This is my final post of the Bullmastiff goodness. We finish it off with with the very lovely mum to all these puppies called Maggie. Who said Bullmastiffs are fat and lazy? No way! Maggie is a prime example of the alert active dogs they should be. She is an absolute joy and a class clown. You did good Mag's with all your gorgeous babies and your mum is very proud of you. The older boy in the case is Cosmo the male of the house - not the father but a much loved pet who started the love of the breed for the breeder.

I had to add the feline companions of the house called Peddy and Bear Bear. Peddy looks so much like a cat I had many many years ago called Kimba the Abyssinian. Lovely two boys. Not sure on all the puppies just yet.

puppies being puppies - blog 1

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 05:38:02 EDT

As you all know I have weakness for the Bullmastiff. It's my heart breed and a breed I hope to one day in the near future have back in my life. I was asked by a friend to photograph their litter of 8 beautiful bullmastiff puppies - and of course I said yes. I have been watching these little guys grow since birth and it was a joy watching them. They are big beautiful healthy puppies with fantastic alert outgoing personalities - all thanks to the great work this breeder has put into them and their passion for the breed is eminent. I have to say photographing puppies is no easy feat. They are sort of nuts with about 1 second attention span. All I could do was chase them around the yard and hope for some nice shots.

lovely awards

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 23:33:22 EDT

Another great year for Serenah Photography again with the Regional and National Australian Professional Photography Awards. As an emerging member at the Queensland awards I picked up 1x silver and 2x silver with distinction this also helped me for a second year in a row win Queensland Emerging Photographer of the Year. At Nationals I dropped the print of Dash the Pointer jumping in the tutu (thepetproject.com.au if you want to see more of this shoot) and replaced with a image I had been meaning to do for awhile. It was all very last minute and thank you to a lovely friend who kindly stepped in and modelled for me. I wanted to give the impression of pure depression were you have sunk to your lowest in life and feel there is no escape. I was so proud to hear the judges picked up on this and awarded me for it with a silver distinction. I also picked up 2 silvers at Nationals for Reddells and Ralph. Next year it might be time to emerge and become a full member of the AIPP and I might need to up my game:D

simon in a suitcase

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 01:35:42 EDT

Super Simon is now just over 8 months of age and become such a wonderful addition to our family. He is a gentle loving boy with the most impressive temperament. Total clown and a little bit naughty. He does have a shoe fetish and so far chewed through 9 pairs of shoes owning to various humans. You can never forget to leave shoes around or they will meet the jaws of mass destruction. Though you always know Simon has something he shouldn't as you hear him scamper fast down the hall. It's about the only time he moves with speed to get outside with his prize. It's very hard to get angry at him as he is ridiculously adorable. We have started obedience school with him now. People think that all Bulldogs are dumb. They're not! They're little shifty characters. Simon is a crafty little buggar and learns quickly - but does have that odd moment of stupidness I will admit. I wish I could film even half the craziness this guy gets up too as like me he would have you in fits of laughter.

the family

Mon, 30 May 2011 03:21:36 EDT

I have my family visiting from New Zealand. We booked a getaway for them in a beautiful little beach town. We always seem to find these lovely little retro cottages to stay in that make great photo opportunities. Simon is totally inlove with mum and she him. Showering him with toys and daily grooms - he is in heaven. Simon has totally won over their hearts with the special little character he is.

so why simon

Sun, 01 May 2011 22:38:25 EDT

A few people have been curious in asking me "why did you get a British Bulldog when we thought your heart was with the Bullmastiff?"

I thought I would shed some light. I have always been mad about aminals from a very young age espcially when it came to dogs. There were two breeds I was fascinated with. One being the Bullmastiff and the other British Bulldog. I grew up in a small town in New Zealand called Waipukurau. I had my first encounter with a Bullmastiff called Max a big gorgeous brindle boy who I use to look after on a regular basis and this started my love affair with this breed. With the British, well this is a little different.

I use to work in a Green Grocer store to earn some extra pocket money. Waipukurau is a small town and probably, when I was living there had a population of 3000. It was notorious for gangs of the likes of Mongrel Mob and Black Power. I remember Black Power driving up and down the whole 100 metres of Waipuks main street in their large black fords flapping warfare flags out the window claiming their ground. Waipukurau must of been quite the prize to invade and conquer.

The Mongrel Mob had British Bulldogs as their icon and owned this breed. We would get a few of them in the green grocer and they always had their British Bulldogs in tow. Now I never cared for these gangs and what they were about but I was always so surprised at their dogs. These British Bulldogs were so friendly and loyal. They followed their owners everywhere and were incredibly well looked after. I would go out and give them a pat and just wonderful temperaments. I would always look forward to capturing a British Bulldog waddling along the main street of Waipuk and thought what fascinating little creatures they were.

But with owning a Bullmastiff I got 40% of the Bulldog anyway so never looked back into a British to own for many years. Sort of like a 2 for 1 type of deal.

When it came to looking for a puppy again, I was going to wait for a bullmastiff, even though I was feeling a little disappointed in the breed after dealing with this disgusting unethical breeder. My good friend Katie sat down with me over a coffee and said why dont you look into a Bulldog. Downsize for your lifestyle and bring a new face to Serenah Photography. I love the look of the British Bulldog. I have always been envious of people that own British Bulldogs as I admire them alot. Smaller then I am use too yet still so majestic. In everyone that I have met over the years, they all had such sound stable temperaments with so much personality and charm. So I thought. Why not take the plunge.

Yes, they have their health issues and so do Bullmastiffs and every other breed of dog. You try and do the right thing with finding the right breeder breeding healthy dogs. I contacted a person I knew from a dog forum who is very knowledgeable on breeders and dogs and an opinion I respect a lot. They poked me in the direction of two kennels of ethical breeders and out of chance there was Simon. Was it meant to be? Who knows. I will own a Bullmastiff again in the very near future. But for the meantime, Simon is just perfect.

hide 'n' cheese

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 05:06:24 EDT

Today we did some camera training with Simon. His first chance to show me what he's got and did he bring it. My first priority is to always keep the camera fun for them with lots of treats so we hid them in the couch to see what he did. Si really is a big floppy puppy. He flopped on his back, gave me a few rolls, kicked his feet off the back and slid off the couch onto his head, walking off to find more treats. Nothing about Simon is graceful and you just have to love him for it.

remembering rocco

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 01:30:24 EDT

Yesterday, 7 years ago my Rocco was born. It has now been over a year since he passed and taken too young. Not a day goes by still, I dont think of him and wish him back near my side. As most of you know he was my inspiration and the reason I picked up a camera. He had the patience of a saint and a sucker for cheese. He would always come running to a shoot for a morsel of cheese with slingers down around his ankles. Every birthday he got a cheeseburger. He loved his Macca’s trip. We would drive up to the drive through and his big head would pop out the window. The McDonalds staff would stand in amazement at the size of him. Rocco had such a presence in person and on camera. People adored him and though he preferred to be cuddled up on my bed he took all the attention like a true gentleman. I sit here writing this in tears. I want to write so much more but it still hurts. Rocco, there will never be a dog like you, you're one in a million. I adore and miss you. My heart dog.

sunshine beach

Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:41:20 EDT

Easter holiday I packed up the car and took the dogs for a social meet up on the Sunshine Coast with Sid and Lola. We stayed at a beautiful home owned by a friends father right on the beach. Simon loved the chance to sit on the front lawn and people watch. He was quite the attention grabber with people stopping to watch him back. We then headed to meet Sid and Lola for a play in the surf. This was Simons first time at a beach - off lead. He was pretty good, occasionally trying to get his "run-on" to explore, but unfortunately for Si we could all run faster them him. Ralph pulled the fun police card a few times, though eventually had a ball running crazy with Sid.

abraham

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 06:48:01 EDT

Meet Abraham (also known as Boo) the 12 year old Border Collie. Boo's owner is a beautiful lady that I met just over a year ago and someone I hope one day to aspire too. She is a very clever and successful business lady building an empire for herself. I have been meaning too for months to capture some pic's of Boo for her and we finally made a time with a quick mini session. You would not believe Boo was 12 years old. He still has so much puppy in him full of energy. He was a pleasure to shoot showing me such focus... though I was holding the one thing he is totally obsessed with... his squeaky toy.

sumo simon

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 00:46:48 EDT

It's been just over a week now of Simon and myself getting to know each other. For almost 8 years I have only ever owned Bullmastiffs and changing my breed was scary. I have always loved Bulldogs but scared I might keep comparing them to a Bullmastiff. My sister said this to me last night and I quote "Simon is awesome, so friendly and way better then a Bullmastiff". At first I was a little offended being a HUGE Bullmastiff lover, but you know what? Simon is awesome, he is the most loveable and adorable creature, you just cant help but fall madly in love with him. So what have I learnt about Simon the British Bulldog so far?

Simon doesn't drool.... drool never bothered me but now that I have a dog that doesn't drool I like it.
Simon snores.... but that's OK because it's a cute little humming sound that you just cant help but sing along with him.
Simon has one speed.... he doesn't really have any urgency for much. Though when his dinner is getting carried out he can move those little legs.
Simon is fat.... Im not happy about this and he is on a diet.
Simon has a sore eye.... he had an operation for cherry eye which didn't go well and while it is still healing it will never be perfect, but this doesn't bother me because he is perfect to me, and I would of never had the chance to own him otherwise.
Simon is a comedian... he is the funniest dog I have ever owned or known and we will have so much fun together.

I will keep you updated on Simons progress and as he grows into a big gorgeous boy.

meet simon

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 05:34:40 EDT

I would like to introduce you all to Simon. My 6 month old British Bulldog puppy. I know a few of you might be a bit confused? My love and heart breed has always been the Bullmastiff. After a bit of bad luck with this breed I decided to investigate the only other breed I have ever wanted to own after the Bullmastiff. I was interested in downsizing a bit for my lifestyle as well, this bought me to the British Bulldog. The British Bulldog has been a love of mine for many many years but I never took the leap to own one. I was given 2 kennels to contact in the whole of Australia by someone who I respect alot with their knowledge of great reputable breeders. The kennel who's dogs I loved the most had this gorgeous little man looking for a home. I decided I had to meet him and with a wonderful friend we packed up the car and drove 8 hours across Australia to meet this breeder. As soon as I saw Simon and all his chunky rolls of baby fat running to meet us with such enthusiasm, I knew he was mine. I was so impressed with Simons breeder, they had the most stunning, happy, friendly Bulldogs. Their dogs were their absolute pride and joy, with the most beautiful immaculate kennel. We felt so at ease with such caring people. So far SImon has only impressed me with his kind, sweet and gentle nature. He takes everything in his stride. I will post more as he grows and update you on his progress. But today is just a quick introduction.

tex the devon rex and a chicken

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:32:15 EDT

Meet the gorgeous Tex the 6 year old devon rex. Cats are not what I get approached for a lot, so when asked if I would photograph Tex, I could not resist. This is my first ever encounter with a Devon and what funny little characters they are. This was probably my most challenging shoot to date as it rained all weekend. The house was very dark place to shoot so my gear was pushed to it's absolute max. Not to mention every time I would get Tex into position and move away he would run off to his food bowl. Seriously, what is it with cats and their food bowls? I also managed to catch a few sneaky shots of the chickens. Freda seemed to love the camera or it might of been her bowl of seeds I was holding.

french kisses and back kicks

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 00:07:52 EDT

I had the pleasure of meeting Sid today. A gorgeous 12 week old French Bulldog. He is owned by a very talented photographer friend. So he already has alot of fabulous photo's but I couldn't resist taking some of my own. He is the most relaxed confident little mite. I was a bit concerned with how Ralph would get on. Ralph is a bit set in his ways and can be a grumpy old man at times. But before my eyes I see them both doing zoomie races up and down the hall. Ralph had a ball playing with young Sid as you can see. Thank you to Sids mum for the visit. We LOVE Sid.

high 5's

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 03:30:17 EST

thats right, Ralph has earned himself a big pat on the back. I recently entered two categories at the huge Las Vagas WPPI awards. I was encouraged by Alicia who I work with on The Pet Project to enter an album in the non wedding informal category. Alicia won this category last year with an amazing album of her work. So I was following a hard act to start. I thought she was having a laugh wanting me to enter, though, followed her instructions and frantically put my album together to make cut off. I really didn't hold out much hope for it. Thinking America might not find Ralph as funny as I do.... I was wrong... they LOVED him.... it placed second in this category. WOW! Needless to say I am a little shocked and maybe a little happy too. Below is a peak of the album. I wont be sharing this just yet as initially this was the Ralph Book I wanted to put together. I was waiting to see how it scored before I got it published. So watch this space.

I was also encouraged to enter a print in the Pet Photography Category. I took a gamble on this one. We wanted to enter another print but it was in my album so suggested "Eat your greens". Some of you may know it, some not. It's a real personal favourite of mine. I guess because of the years of torture being forced to eat Brussels Sprouts this is what I was trying to show in a dogs perspective. Reddells totally bought the face to the shot and I knew it had magic. I heard it had been awarded and gone OK but not as well as I hoped. So I pretty much tucked it away with a great feeling knowing it had a merit of excellence. Yah for me. Well it did better then I thought and placed second in the Pet Category. I was so so proud as this really was the category I wanted to place in being a pet photographer after all.

I havent wiped the grin off my face. My first attempts and with only 2 entries I did good at the WPPI. So big thank you to Alicia & Alex from Savvy Studios, who are forever supporting and encouraging me. Thank you to my beautiful subjects Ralph, Red and Roc for being so patient with me and my camera. Aren't they possibly the BEST EVER!

Im back with the blog love

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:24:28 EST

I struggle with the time to sit down and write blog posts, though, thought it was time to start again. I have taken some time out from my photography, not been as intense at it in the last 6 months. But now feel its time to jump back in with some new personal work and client work. I have a few exciting weeks ahead with some gorgeous doggy sessions and even a cat, yes you heard me right, a gorgeous spunky Devon Rex.

Also not to forget a very special shoot of a large litter of puppies and when I say large... I mean LARGE. There will be a big story behind this shoot. It is probably one of my most exciting shoots to date and I absolutely cant wait.

I was recently asked by the Qld Professional Institute of Photography to do a small speech and slide show of my work at a big event they hold called The Hair of the Dog. It was an honour to be asked with the calibre of photographers that talk at this event. Needless to say I was terrified. Im not really a "crowd" type of girl. But I forced myself out of my comfort zone to get up and speak in front of 200 people. Funny thing was, all that worried me was making it through my speech without sounding like too much of a fumbling idiot, that it never occurred to me that my work might also go down like a cup of sick. But standing up there and hearing a crowd of people laughing I thought to myself "is my work actually amusing, wow look at these people laughing". When you are so close to your personal work you view it very differently. It was a wonderful experience to add to my journey of photography and a HUGE thanks to the QAIPP for having me. Here is the slide show that accompanied my nervous self at The Hair of the Dog.