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maker | photographer | designer
 

Offerings

At my studio, I believe that art and design should inspire, delight, and enrich our lives. Explore my portfolio and connect with me today to discover how I can help you capture beauty with every shot, design visuals that speak volumes, and infuse your space with handmade ceramics that reflect your personality and style.

 
 

Are you looking for a Photographer?

Everything you need to know about my process, approach and packages for photography sessions.

The Designer comes with the lot. Lucky!

As a qualified visual communicator, I’ve evolved my practices to focus on a human and environment-centred approach to creating.

Are you looking for a Maker?

Building my knowledge of craft with ceramics is constant, ensuring I’m being responsible in my making is a strong focus of mine.

 

Photographer

 
 

HOW I WORK

As a process-driven creative, I capture moments as they transpire to communicate a soft, natural mood through candid imagery. I work discreetly to explore those in-between moments to create rich, intentional imagery. I love partnering with local go-getters who have a deep desire to make a difference to their world, the world around them and beyond.

 
 

 my photography Pillars

 

Documenting unique and inspiring places while exploring the connection between the natural and the built environment.

Whether you’re looking to update your brand presence or wanting to relive and remember a special occasion, big or small.

Creating interesting arrangements whilst bringing together elements found and made to highlight your product at its best.

 

 

my photography Packages

 
 

PACKAGE ONE

the Premium

WHAT IS IT

Our premium photography session is designed for ambitious entrepreneurs who are ready to invest in their brand and take their business to new heights. I'll work closely with you to bring your creative vision to life, capturing stunning visuals that captivate your dream audience. With my expertise and guidance, you'll be able to share your brand's story and connect with your audience like never before.

WHO IS IT FOR

Ideal for established brands looking to work alongside a team of professionals and create something truly unique.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

+ Photography package the SIGNATURE & the ESSENTIAL
+ Up to a full-day session on location
+ Full gallery of images

FROM $2,900 plus GST

PACKAGE TWO

the Signature

WHAT IS IT

If you're seeking imagery that goes beyond a mere headshot and leaves a lasting impression, our signature photography session is a perfect choice. I understand that your story is more than just a face; it's a journey worth sharing. With our expertise, we'll capture your process and custom-create visuals that truly reflect your essence.

WHO IS IT FOR

This package is for all businesses - startups, established, or just anyone who believes it’s time to invest in your business - to build a cohesive brand across all media platforms. It’s time to tell your story, crafted from purpose and intention.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

+ Photography package the ESSENTIAL
+ Strategy & Concept Development session
+ Up to a half-day session on location
+ Up to 40 of your favourite images
+ Option to purchase full gallery from $450 (plus gst)

FROM $1,400 plus GST

PACKAGE THREE

the Essential

WHAT IS IT

Our essential photography session is the ideal foundation for every brand, regardless of its size. I'll work closely with you to craft a session that captures the essence of your brand and its unique values. Our visuals are tailored to your ideal audience, creating a powerful connection that resonates with them.

WHO IS IT FOR

Perfect for startups, smaller businesses, or those on a tighter budget, but still want to showcase a beautiful brand.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

+ Session Questionnaire
+ Coffee date / catch-up
+ Creative Direction & Styled Mood-board
+ Shot List
+ Up to 1.5 hours on location
+ Private Online Gallery with high-res images from your session
+ 16 of your favourite images provided in high & low-resolution
+ Image license - for use of images across all your marketing platforms
+ Option to purchase full gallery for an additional $250 (plus gst)

FROM $600 plus GST

 
 

Are you keen to create all year long?

Introducing
the
Exclusive Subscription

WHAT IS IT

Elevate your brand presence with our Exclusive Subscription, designed for those seeking a continuous and premium photography experience. This subscription goes beyond a one-time session, offering ongoing visual storytelling that evolves with your brand.

WHO IS IT FOR

Ideal for established businesses, influencers, or those who recognise the value of consistent, high-quality visuals for their brand identity.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

+ 4 ESSENTIAL sessions spaced over 12 months

FROM $160 plus GST per month

 
 
 

OUR NEXT STEPS

Ready to work together?

That’s great news! I’m intrigued to hear more about your vision and how I can support and partner with you. Here’s our next three steps to get things started:

 

STEP 01

Have a look around

Explore my site and determine if you think we could be a good fit. Explore my services and make sure my style appeals to you.

STEP O2

Get in touch

Next, fill out the Contact form with your your project needs. We’ll then make sure we are a good fit by chatting via email or on a Zoom call.

 

STEP 03

Review & book in

Finally, I’ll send you a quote to accept followed by a 30% deposit invoice to get you all booked in!

 
 

my photography FAQs

  • My first piece of advice is to wear what you're comfortable in, what represents you. If you NEVER wear dresses, don't feel like you should wear a dress because you've seen it in someone else's photos.

    Feel free to accessorise! Scarves, earrings, boots!

  • If the services are cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled time and date, we will retain the initial deposit unless the services are rescheduled within 1 month.

  • If that's the case, we will promptly notify you when such circumstances cause a delay or failure to get together and work out when we can. If such circumstances continue over a period of 3 months, we are both able to terminate this agreement by written notice to the other.

  • I do not supply unedited RAW files as I consider these my unfinished product, and part of what you are paying for when you commission me for your photography is my editing ability.

  • You can use your photos on your website, promotional material (no larger than A2 size) and any social media accounts owned by you.

  • Unless stated within the quote;

    • you can't use your photographs in print, online or in any other forms of visual media larger than A2 size.

    • you can't give access to third parties, for example, suppliers or customers that may be featured in the photographs to use in their marketing material or award submissions without my consent. In that case, please encourage them to reach out to me directly.

  • This immersive experience is designed to delve deep into the core of your brand, unravelling its unique essence and values. Our goal is to craft a visual narrative that not only speaks volumes about your brand but also establishes a powerful connection with your ideal audience.

  • Yes. Post-processing includes colour correction and matching, exposure adjustments, and removal of prominent blemishes.

  • I certainly do, thanks to Emilia Cardillo Law. You can find them here.

Woman typing on laptop at the 3 Monkeys cafe Newcastle
 

Grounded By Designs Logo
 
Handmade ceramic cups and bowls on table with a handmade vase of dried flowers
Ceramic tags with words voice mirriyu on wooden box

 

 

Form, Function, Texture

 

MY PRACTICE

As a maker, my practice involves crafting simple, functional pieces that enhance an experience of the everyday. Whether that’s sitting at your favourite coffee shop, lazing around at home, or enjoying a moment overlooking an awe-inspiring view.

Newcastle’s eco-conscious ceramic studio & workshop space within MOA & co.

 
 
Woman holding ceramic cup in garden

my Approach

I am conscious of both beauty and function, and seek to find ways of harmonising the two. Each piece is handmade by me and carries a unique beauty that celebrates a simpler time whilst being Grounded By Designs.

facebook | instagram

 

MY ECO PRACTICES

 

Solar powered

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Reclaim clay

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Buy in bulk

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Make my own glazes

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Carbon offset

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Recyclable Packaging

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Water tank water

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Solar powered 〰️ Reclaim clay 〰️ Buy in bulk 〰️ Make my own glazes 〰️ Carbon offset 〰️ Recyclable Packaging 〰️ Water tank water 〰️

 

HOW I WORK

 
 
 

my Process

 

STEP one

the Design

WHAT IS IT

I like to sketch out on paper what I’m hoping to create unless its a flat object like a plate or a bowl.

STEP two

the Roll

WHAT IS IT

I either cut directly from the slab of clay or knead up some offcuts. As I work primarily with hand building, I roll out my clay with my mini venco slab roller (new addition of 2023) or with a rolling pin and wooden sticks that help keep the thickness of my slab even.

STEP three

the Cut

WHAT IS IT

Once my slab has been rolled out to the right thickness, I compress both sides using a stiff wooden rib. I then cut out as many pieces as I can fit on the rolled out slab. For repeat pieces I use a cardboard template to ensure I keep things as consistent as possible.

 

STEP four

the Repeat

WHAT IS IT

Once I moved those cut out pieces to a flat surface I repeat steps two and three to allow the cut slabs to dry slightly.

STEP five

the Build

WHAT IS IT

Starting with the first cut pieces, I begin building my designs. I reinforce the joins with small coils to ensure its structurally sound. This step may be broken up into multiple stages to allow for some air drying between bringing all the sides together successfully.

STEP six

the Trim

WHAT IS IT

Whilst it’s slowly drying to leather hard I do a final tidy and trim with my carving tools and sponge.

 

STEP seven

the Dry

WHAT IS IT

There’s no quickening this step, trust me I’ve tried. The slower the better when it comes to hand built pieces.

STEP eight

the Bisque

WHAT IS IT

On a sunny day, I stack my 20amp kiln, close the door and watch the temperature rise to 998°.

STEP nine

the Sand

WHAT IS IT

After unpacking the kiln, I gently sand the whole piece with a smooth stone or fired, unglazed clay. I then quickly dip it in water and allow to dry completely. This ensure that the piece is smooth and clean from any debris.

 

STEP ten

the Glaze

WHAT IS IT

I like to dip glaze my pieces along with a little splatter of a different glaze to add some individuality to the finished result. I’ve also been getting into some painting with underglaze, then dipping them into clear glaze for a rather striking result.

STEP eleven

the Final Fire

WHAT IS IT

Once their bottoms have been cleaned (to ensure they don’t stick to my kiln shelves), I place them back into the kiln. Depending on the clay I’ve used will depend on how high the firing needs to get to. This could be between 1142° and 1260°.

STEP twelve

the Sealer

WHAT IS IT

After firing I do a final sand of the unglazed parts of the piece so it’s smooth to the touch. I then wash in warm, soapy water and leave to dry. After drying, I brush on Liquid Quartz, which is a food safe sealer of unglazed ceramic wares, rendering it waterproof and stain resistant.

 

my current Stockists

 
Hand made sign saying hand made ceramics

267 King St,
Newcastle NSW 2300

MOA Coffee Co gift pack

Online Subscription Service

16-22 Gipps Street,
Carrington NSW 2294

Looking to stock Grounded By Designs?

Get in touch today.

 
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