I think these really are the perfect words to describe what we photographers do. In a sense we hunt out the perfect photo. I know that I wait for it, obsess about it, plan for it, but at the end of the day, it usually comes down to a second. A second here or there; and you end up with the perfect selection of photos or ones which are just ok.

In a race, a second, or even a fraction of a second, really is the difference between coming first and last.

Photography is the same.

I always want to come first.

To me, they seem like a perfect example of what I think relationships should be, and that is fun. They tease each other and play around, and I think that’s the most important thing to have in a relationship. I’m not so sure that Hamish appreciated Jen & I ganging up on him and teasing him, but it made for a good laugh for the two of us.

Even their very cute engagement gave me a chuckle. Neither one knows exactly quite how it happened, but they were on the phone to each other, Hamish mentioned something about wanting to get married, Jen thought he was joking, then realised he was being serious and tears and laughter ensued. I’m not sure I’ll ever know quite how it happened, or whether they will, but I’m really glad that it did.

Here are Jen & Hamish.

It was fun to go back to our sort of first date place and hang out, though I have to say that those characters on the course look a lot less creepy at night when you can’t see their freakish smiles and poses properly.

And really, what better way to spend Valentine’s Day than eating and playing?

Hope you all had an awesome Valentine’s Day too and I leave you with this photo of Nick and I playing with sparklers. My attempt should be labeled more of a failure really, the heart looks more like a jellybean than anything else.

So, head on over to Polka Dot Bride and leave some love.

What I realised was that the only way could answer the question of what inspires me without answering “everything!” is to tell you all that I love stories. Stories have a way of weaving themselves into your being. Everyone has a story; whether it is good, bad, funny, indifferent, filled with silliness; everyone has a story. My job as a photographer is to capture that story, and I am grateful for it every day. Sometimes I get to create my own story and other times I get to be a part of other people’s; to document intimate moments that are only really shared with closest family and friends. To be let into other people’s lives and their stories and see them unfold, really, how could you not be inspired?

I’m thankful for being able to share in people’s stories and to document them. It really is an awesome job.

Here is their story.

James & Christine both worked for OzEmail back in the day (and by back in the day, I mean a few years ago, which in the world of technology really is back in the day). James had a thing for Christine, but she insisted that she didn’t want to be involved in a relationship. He knew better, refused to take no for an answer and very slyly convinced Christine to go get drinks after work without her really realising that she’d just agreed to it. A few drinks and a work harbour cruise later and they were officially dating.

It’s now 5 years later and next November James & Christine will be tying the knot and I’ll be there to capture all those moments. I really can’t wait!

Love you both!

The model was the lovely Amy Lyn Cage who I worked with on what was my first solo fashion shoot and it was lovely collaborating with her again. The stylist was Jess Bellef, who from the very first time I spoke to her was so enthusiastic and created these amazing looks, including making a headpiece for Amy and the hair stylist was Milli Jaksic, who created a look for Amy that was absolutely perfect ‘do and looked flawless the entire day.

I took my instax so I could get a photo of everyone involved and add them to the ever increasing wall of photos we have at home.

I’m still going through all of the photos from yesterday, but I just had to share my favourite from the day.

Hope everyone has a good weekend.