Location photographer. Getting behind the scenes. Showing off the secret, and not so secret, treasures of the world.
Unwinding in Style: The Vineyard Retreat, McLaren Vale
Last year, I had the chance to snap some pics at The Vineyard Retreat again and let me tell you, it's a slice of heaven perched on top of a hill in McLaren Vale. I mean, talk about luxury and charm rolled into one!
Every nook and cranny of this place is decked out with such taste and detail that it's like stepping into a cozy Pinterest board. From snug cottages to swanky villas, each accommodation is like a warm hug waiting to welcome you.
But let's talk about the views, folks. Picture this: rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see, with the occasional kangaroo hopping by to add to the charm. It's like nature's Instagram backdrop, begging you to snap away.
And don't even get me started on the outdoor spaces. You've got lush gardens begging for a stroll, a sparkling spa just waiting for you to slide into, and balconies perfect for sipping wine and watching the sunset. It's the stuff that relaxation dreams are made of, trust me.
As I wandered around with my camera, I couldn't help but notice the little touches that make The Vineyard Retreat so unique. They've thought of everything, from the chic decor to the thoughtful amenities. They've got pampering down to an art form.
But here's the best part: despite feeling like you're a world away from it all, you're actually just a hop, skip, and jump from McLaren Vale's buzzing town centre. So whether you're keen to explore the nearby wineries or just fancy a lazy day in, you have the best of both worlds at your doorstep.
In my photos, I aimed to capture the beauty of The Vineyard Retreat and the laid-back vibe that makes it such a special spot. Each snap is like a little invitation to kick back, relax, and soak up the good vibes.
So if you're in need of a break from the daily grind, do yourself a favor and book a stay at The Vineyard Retreat. Trust me, it's the kind of place that'll have you feeling like a VIP from the moment you arrive.
Hay Valley Chapel and Cemetery BnB
I photographed this unique accommodation last year, and also stayed for a weekend. I am a little thankful, as it has now been sold. Check it out though…
Maridaallah Retreat
CLIENT: Maridaallah Retreat
SHOOT: 4 hours with street talent for half of shoot
This shoot was for a new accommodation on the Fleurieu Peninsula. An exquisite 4-bedroom home perched on a hilltop with views over the southern coast. This is a place where you can wake up and watch the kangaroos grazing from your bed!
Beachcomber, Honolulu HAWAII
Staying in Waikiki…
After five nights on the North Shore, I thought we had better find out what Waikiki was about. This hotel is located in a great location on Kalākaua Avenue, surrounded by luxury stores, a street market, hotels, and the beach just a building away.
My favourite way to get to the beach? Through Surfboard Alley! It is just across the road, and seeing all the surfboards locked up along the wall is always intriguing.
Surfs up!
From the Hawaiian art and photographs decking the walls to the artisan eats and locally made beer, Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel will immerse you in the spirit of Waikiki. Inspired by local influencers and artists, the Beachcomber Originals, this craft hotel was created with an island vibe and is the perfect place to sip a Mai Tai and soak in the energy of aloha. - Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
Casa Feliz Tiny Home
A beautiful shoot I did recently for Casa Feliz Tiny Home at Maslin Beach.
Wow! I think I need to book to stay here myself (even though it’s only a few minutes from my house).
The Vineyard Retreat
“The Vineyard Mclaren Vale is a peaceful and stylish vineyard retreat with distinctive guest houses and cadole’s; each commanding views over South Australia’s most idyllic wine and food region.
An unpretentious wine country escape, ensconced in a working vineyard, the contemporary and well-appointed guest houses are elegant and sophisticated.”
Two shoots for The Vineyard Retreat - each accommodation is unique, and full of elegance and sophistication indeed.
A world away... at Seawall Apartments for a weekend stay as restrictions ease.
A staycation in Glenelg. Blissful.
Snaps from a little stay at a favourite place in Adelaide. On the beachfront in Glenelg. Seawall Apartments.
I’m feeling the need to get away but can’t. This is a great way to get my fix.
Have you had a staycation during Covid? Where did you go?
PHOTO TIP: Photographing hotel bathrooms
Photographing the bathroom… some tips beyond ‘make it look as pretty and spacious as possible’.
It's not the most exciting part of the hotel - but it's essential for people with access needs. They have to make sure they can use the bathroom safely and conveniently. By using photographs, you are answering their questions simply and quickly.
Here are some tips to get the photo.
use a wide-angle lens so you can capture the floor, shower and toilet in one frame
allow the potential customer to see the space and size of the area
if you don't have access to a wide-angle, try getting the image from different angles to show the different areas
keep your vertical lines (the walls) straight
photographing from the doorway is often the best place
When booking a shoot, ensure your Photographer knows these requirements. If not, they will photograph the bathroom in the most flattering way and perhaps not consider this.
CLIENT: Upalinna Station, Flinders Ranges
Upalinna Station in the Flinders Ranges. Ever stayed on a station? Check it out…
Upalinna means 'Little Water' in the Adnyamathana language.
Upalinna is a family-owned and operated working sheep station, located on the Eastern side of Ikara Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges, South Australia. Don't do what I did and take The Outback Highway (towards Parachilna) out of Hawker then have to traverse the Moralana Scenic Drive track in a little VW. Makes for slow progress on the dirt and rock. Take the Flinders Ranges Way (towards Wilpena).
There are bush campsites and shearers quarters. Some very fancy shearers quarters that sleep 14 people.
Five bedrooms, classically styled kitchen, dining and lounge room with open fireplace and bread oven that's great for cooking pizza in. Outside is an entertaining area with bbq plus a firepit down by the creek. I loved standing virtually on top of the fire defrosting after photographing in the cold all day.
Check out the pics... a bit nice.
CLIENT: South Australian Escapes
Want to have a holiday by the beach? Just steps from the Middleton surf is this beautiful home…
A couple of weekends ago I went to photograph a brand spanking new holiday rental for a client in Middleton. I had no idea what to expect. But there were just a few wows as I went through. I'd love to stay here... and will (when I can trust my kids not to damage anything ;))
My client wanted the photos to put up on her website so she could get guests booked in for the Christmas period - all before she leaves on her own holiday in a week or so. So, it was a quick turnaround shoot. Retouching was kept natural and pics uploaded in web and print sizes for her.
About a week later, when I saw her next, she said she had it booked out to two different people already over that period.
WOW! Now that's how photos can work for you. I know it's busy season, but without photos, the chance of booking is much less. And good photos that show the space properly makes a massive impact on people and their decision to book or not.
Here are the pics... house pics shoot was about an hour then some time for some stock pics of the local area (plus a couple I had already taken over time).
