About me

My Photography Journey

My photography journey began in 2017 on my first big overseas trip to Canada with my partner, who was a professional landscape photographer. Initially, I had planned to just tag along, but given the artistic background I have had since a child- learning photography on this trip was inevitable.

I’ve never fully appreciated how much work and dedication goes into creating a great shot until I started landscape photography. I can’t begin to tell you how many tears I’ve cried over the years. From excruciating frostbitten hands in the Canadian Rockies, to returning to a car in a blizzard with a dead battery and no mobile reception. I’d climb to the top of a mountain, just to have the view shrouded by fog and often return from an arduous shoot without a single good photograph. 

As much as this all ‘kinda sucks’ at the time, it’s the journey of being a photographer and all the challenges along the way that I learned to love. Every single photograph has a story to tell. Over time, I’ve learned to focus less on the destination (the photograph) and to just enjoy the journey along the way.

Vanessa Claire Photography
Vanessa Claire Photography

Reconnecting with Creativity

At the end of 2017, I graduated from university with a degree in Engineering and Science (mathematics) and started a job at BHP as an Electrical Engineer. This job took me to some remote parts of Australia, working on some interesting projects and offered a great start in life as a young professional. As much as this job was rewarding, it was also challenging- the hardest part was being away from my family, friends and partner back in Melbourne. After a few years, I decided it was enough- returning to the Geelong to find a job closer to home. 

During this time, my photography work had become noticed by businesses in Melbourne and Geelong. While my engineering work provided me a sense of accomplishment, I still yearned for the sense of creativity that photography provided. As my work started to grow, I realised I would be able to make a full time career out of this. 

My Philosophy

Part of my unique ability as a photographer is to connect with my clients and truly understand what makes their business special. To invoke an experience through imagery- bringing out a sense of emotion and connection between their customers and the business. I have the ability to adapt my photography style to my client’s brand- never a one size fits all approach. I have since expanded my photography portfolio to include food, real estate, architecture, portraits and event photography. 

I have been fortunate to work with some wonderful Australian businesses, such as Legacy Australia and RM Williams on various events and campaigns. But my passion is working alongside local businesses, both in Geelong and Melbourne. To help businesses grow and expand their presence by to bring out their true potential through imagery is highly rewarding. While I’m not directly using my Engineering degree, my time as a professional has taught me valuable skills in project management. My ability to communicate and deliver efficiently has gained a level of respect and trust between myself and my clients, and in turn- my reputation as a commercial photographer. 

My Equipment

Behind the scenes gallery

Vanessa Claire Photography

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