QVB Sydney

I forget how architecturally brilliant the QVB is. When you see something almost ever day you tend to forget and under appreciate how lovely it is. You see, but you don't really see - if you know what I mean.
One Sunday morning, armed with my camera and a coffee. I decided to take a stroll through this beautiful building. The great thing about walking through the QVB at an early hour is there is little to no crowds- it has a ghost town feel to it. You can take in the beauty of the architecture without bumping into someone or being distracted by shoppers or tourists. I recommend going there at around 8am, also, don't forget to look up.

Images shot by me

Wild Roses

Hi Pals,

Below are some photos I shot last week. I collaborated with my fellow Studio Manager - Chelsea. I've wanted to do this shoot for quite some time now and a few weeks back I asked Chelsea's opinion in regards to lighting set ups. Pure chance, she was looking to shoot the same concept, so a collaboration was booked.

While reviewing my images in post, I saw that are some lighting techniques I can improve on next time I am in the studio. Overall, I'm quite happy with these dark and moody photos. And as photography test shoot goes, there are always learnings at the end of it. It was the first time I used strobe lighting (I normally opt for natural light), Chelsea is a brilliant teacher and guided me through the process. I know I can improve that skill from here on end.

Images shot by me at Mondo Digital

Things to do in Melbourne: State Library of Victoria

For those who know me - libraries and bookstores are my go to places. So visiting The State Library of Victoria in Melbourne was a no brainer. This amazing domed structure was designed by architect Norman Peebles - who drew inspiration from two great libraries: the British Museum Library in London and the Library of Congress in Washington.

"Peebles’ dome was one of the largest reinforced concrete spans in the world, a great technical innovation for its time. The classically ornamented interior was arranged on a radial panopticon plan, commonly used in penal establishments, with a librarian (rather than a warden) seated on a raised dais at the centre. From here an eye could survey the whole room and maintain order with stern admonitions to ‘Silence’".

Make sure you see the Dome Gallery in The State Library of Victoria next time you visit Melbourne. You'll be awe struck by this beautiful piece of architecture.

Images Shot by Me

Instagram Inspiration: Emmanuel Sammartino

How can you not love Emmanuel Sammartino instagram page. Beautiful moody floral shots! Uhhh Amazing!

 

Images via Emmanual Sammartino's Instagram

Things to do in Melbourne - Panton Hill Winery

Panton Hill Winery is a family boutique winery - owned and run by the lovely Dorothy and Teunis.

"Together our aim is to create consistently high quality wines that are eminently drinkable: meaning, wines that are soft, fruity & complex. We want our guests to feel welcome and well looked after in beautiful surroundings. Providing wine education as much or as little as you like, is also part of our philosophy. Above all, everything done here has to be fun and enjoyable for our customers and for us!"

The wine is delicious and my personal favourites are the Pinot Noir and Verdelho. We were guided by the knowledgable Dorothy on our wine tasting tour. You can feel the passion from her when she speaks, her warmth and unwavering attention is what stood out. The winery is located 45 minutes from central Melbourne on the rolling country hills at the accessable end of the Yarra Valley. Panton Hill is picturesque, the estate itself looks like a Tuscan villa with a dash of Game of Thrones interiors. You can also enjoy a meal with a glass of wine if you are feeling peckish - from anti pasta plates, cheese and a carnivore option too.

Panton Hill Winery is definitely a place to visit.

Location: 145 Manuka Road, Manuka Rd, Panton Hill VIC 3759 Tel: (03) 9719 7342

Images shot by Me