I was thrilled to find out yesterday that two of my images have been selected as Shortlist Finalists in the 2015 Fremantle International Portrait Prize. There was 1865 entries from 29 countries and the finalists will be on show in an exhibition at the Moores Contemporary Gallery in Fremantle from 25 October through to 1 November.

I’ve spent the last couple of weeks escaping the south coast winter camping on a remote beach, washing in the ocean and cooking over a fire. By contrast, the 10 days prior to that I was in Perth, immersed in all-things Photography, firstly at the WA Epson Professional Photography Awards (WAEPPAs) and then at the AIPP’s annual gathering, The Nikon Event, which this year was held in Perth. The unquestionable highlight of these last three or four weeks was being named 2015 AIPP WA Professional Portrait Photographer, and also being presented with the coveted and prestigious John Whitfield King trophy which is awarded annually for best people photograph across all categories.

Something a bit different from me on this Monday morning...  You may remember the early-morning photo shoot I did with Theva and Patricia a couple of months ago at Elephant Rocks. 

There's nothing quite as intimate (or as romantic!) as an elopement. Melissa and Matt created their perfect day, starting at the beautiful William Bay Cottages and finishing with a romantic private dinner at Pepper & Salt Restaurant created for them by chef Silas Masih who had opened the restaurant especially for the occasion.

Like parents, wedding photographers probably shouldn’t have favourites. Having said that, this wedding will always be one of my favourites for many reasons. The main reason though is Ellen, our beautiful bride. Ellen shines - her beauty starts on the inside and weaves its way out. On her wedding day I witnessed, again and again, Ellen wearing her open-heart on her sleeve, and as ready as she was to cry openly, she was equally ready to launch into a big belly laugh; her relationship with all those who surround her is heartwarming, whether it’s as a daughter, a friend, or now as Maciej’s wife.