The Journey of a Self Taught Photographer
Migrated from Sydney Australia, I was raised in the serene landscapes of Northern Rivers, New South Wales. A truly breathtaking display of nature, my love for the ocean & its surrounds was born.
While I've always had an affinity for being in front of the camera, it's the world behind the lens that truly captivated me.
I've been privileged with the opportunities to work in picturesque settings & beachfront locations, amongst the Bundjalung nation's beauty. For as long as I can remember, my dream was to be self employed & travel the world. I owe that to my mother who had multiple business start ups, coaching speakers across Australia & is a true entrepreneur, I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps. She inspires women to speak their truth, stand up for what they believe in & shine their light on the world.
My journey into photography was inspired by a desire for creative control. I started modelling at the age of 14 & continued it through high school and beyond. Yet, I often found myself disappointed with the photos I received. They didn't quite match the vision I had in mind. With a natural eye for detail honed through pursuits like drawing, interior design, and styling, I embarked on a journey of self-expression.
My teen years were marked by the cultivation of my personal Instagram, curating a blend of fashion and lifestyle content that attracted 10,000 followers and caught the eye of many reputable brands. I knew I was in the right creative space, doing something I loved but felt I was lacking in something, a need to do more, a calling.
In February 2020, as COVID-19 closed down my workplace 2 weeks after moving out of my childhood home, I found myself in a state of deep depression and aimlessness. Desperate for an escape, I turned to photography, a long-held interest of mine. In May 2020, I took a leap of faith, purchasing a second-hand camera online from marketplace. Armed with this newfound tool, I began capturing moments with close friends and models I had met earlier through modelling. My Instagram quickly gained a modest following, with aspiring models reaching out to collaborate. Despite my limited camera knowledge, I was determined to learn, teaching myself the intricacies of camera settings.
In less than a year, I found myself living a dream, shooting for a client who was later published in the Vogue Living January 2021 issue.
Fast forward to 2023, and I'm now in my fourth year as a photographer. I've rebranded my businesses to reignite my creativity and refine my message.
At Grace Lily Visuals, my mission is clear: to make every woman feel beautiful in her own skin. I believe in the inherent beauty of every individual, and I'm passionate about promoting individuality on social media and within the modelling industry. My goal is to shatter the stereotypes in this industry and encourage everyone, regardless of modelling aspirations, to embrace their unique beauty and express their individuality.
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events that led me to pick up a camera during the pandemic, I can't help but appreciate the transformative power of pursuing one's passion. Thus, Grace Lily Visuals was born—a testament to the belief that beauty is diverse, and every person deserves to feel beautiful in their own way.
