My Story
Hey, I'm Chelcie, an international wedding photographer (based in Sunshine Coast, QLD) who started this photo gig back in 2009. I photograph weddings, families, couples, and beloved pets. I value photographs that capture authentic moments which is my photos are clean, vibrant and authentic. This also means they stand the test of time. So in 30 years, you're not going to look back and cringe at the wacky edits. Along with my photos, people describe me as friendly, vibrant and authentic. So that's the short story. To read the LONG STORY or other blog posts to get more of a feel of who I am and what I've been up to then you can head over to my blog.
“Actually, it’s nature itself that creates the most beautiful pictures, I’m only choosing the perspective.”
Testimonials
Jordan + Merry
“Had Chelcie shoot our destination wedding in Hawaii. Best. Photos. Ever! She knew exactly what shots to take, what was good lighting, how to direct us to get romantic and fun photos! She was amazing with our guests. Everyone commented on how professional and competent she was. She was awesome with the kids in our extended family. She was flexible, going above and beyond to accommodate our vision. My wife and I often just randomly say to each other, “babe, how good are our wedding photos?!?””
FAQ
What experience do you have?
I've been photographing weddings since I was 17 years old (roughly 2012 I think). I started off second shooting for another photographer. They were great they taught me so much (including studio work). I also completed a Diploma in Photography back in 2013. This Diploma focused on commercial photography - so although I don't advertise, I can photograph all commercial photography (fashion, real estate, branding, product). I have also worked as a studio assistant for two companies where I helped out with admin and worked as a professional image editor. After a little while I decided to start my own photographic business which has enabled me to travel across Australia and to other countries to pursue the craft.
What does your set-up look like?
I was basically born and raised on Canon equipment - I was close to switching to Sony once but quickly decided against it (Sony is great though). My current set-up is a few Canon R6's. My favourite lenses are the 70-200m and my 35mm. I edit my images through Adobe's Photoshop and Lightroom (like 99% of other professional photographers) and I work off of Apple products. I also use pixieset to run my website and online galleries. Oh! I also have a drone which I shoot from occasionally - I feel like I use it mostly for fun though.
Why do you love photography?
I first was introduced to photography as an art form in high school. It was a bludge subject with a wacky art teacher who would let us run around the campus and develop film in the school's lab. I would say my obsession clicked in pretty quickly from there. One of my core values is learning - and I think because I could see the results from my learning in real time I was able to advance my skills pretty quickly. So at first, I loved photography because I got some solid hits of dopamine as I developed my skills. What eventually sustained my interest is my love for people. AND more importantly my love for preserving memories and life through art. I think that's why my style has always remained true to colour and clean - it's preserving a true moment in time. Overall photography allows me a way to live out some of my core values (creativity, preserving memories, family, learning, skill building). There is more about my .... I guess 'origin story' in the blog I'm pretty sure its the very first post.
