For those of us living in and around Melbourne 2021 was, for much of it, in lockdown. Of course lockdowns come with their own set of challenges, emotionally, physically (more pasta anyone?), mentally and I for one, admit suffering all three affects this year as 262 days of being confined to home (over the course of 18 months) took its toll.
From a professional viewpoint however, the year was actually really rewarding. I maintained a steady flow of work, mostly studio based, that I loved, and even did a couple of ‘styling only’ jobs. I enjoyed all the opportunities I was given, from cooking, styling and shooting food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, brand work, beauty and home products, portraits of the most wonderful people, cafes and restaurants as well as some graphic design work which included the design/release of two beautiful client books. Each job brought with it lovely connections, creative opportunities and a welcome focus during a tough year.
In addition to lockdown and work life, our family also continued with ongoing home renovations and finally began the extension to our home which included the addition of a studio and office, new kitchen, living zone and deck area. Just this week I began the move from my rented studio back to home so that I can keep pursuing my love for food photography with kitchen facilities at my fingertips. Lockdown and restrictions meant this process has taken much, much longer than anticipated, but that’s the world today. It’s not entirely finished yet, but getting there and I hope to be shooting here for clients by February 2022.
I’m excited to see what next year brings. I love that my work is always different and that I get to utilise my skills to showcase different styles of photography across a wide variety of areas.
A huge thank you to all my clients this year. I have loved working with every one of you and very grateful you put your trust in me. All the best for a safe and joyful Christmas and I look forward to working together again next year on some new and exciting projects.
Finally a big thank you to my daughter, Isla, officially a Willow Creative staff member - hand model and photography assistant - I love more than anything we get to work together, music playing and lots of fun along the way.
