wedding photographer Archives | The Bride's Tree

Meet Terri Hanlon | Sunshine Coast Wedding Photographer

Sally Townsend — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 03:58:22 +0000

Anyone who has met, or worked with, Sunshine Coast wedding photographer Terri Hanlon knows she is a gosh darn joy of a person, who oozes positivity. A conversation with Terri is guaranteed to bring with it giggles – nay, unbridled belly laughs! Meeting Terri feels more like a reunion with an old friend, which is just the kind of feel you want for your wedding photographer.

So, let’s learn a little more about this talented lass and her role in weddings on the Sunshine Coast as a wedding photographer.

Prior to working in the wedding industry, what did you do?

Before diving into the wedding industry I was working in an office environment, and to be honest, I have had quite a few jobs before fully becoming a full-time photographer. Bar work, gym reception, admin girl and even a touch of retail in a local Bunnings.

All of my past work roles have helped me understand people in a great way, learning to read peoples body language and anticipate what comes next. A great skill for photographing in the wedding arena! People-watching is a favourite past time of mine and in all of my work environments, I could indulge in this guilty pleasure.

My past life in bar work was the best as many blind dates would happen across from the wine and beer pouring! Incredibly cute when couples come back for their second and even third dates! I often wonder if any of them have gone on to tie the knot?!

Take me through your process of your on-the-day job.

On your wedding day, after a triple equipment and timeline check, I will be on my way to find opportunities to capture those hidden moments that are lifetime gems for couples. I love chatting with friends and family at weddings to learn as much as I possibly can about the rad people that I am photographing. I want to know who laughs the most, who is cheeky and loves a pic and also anyone that is on the top of the important list for photos, such as Grandma and those childhood friends that my couples adore.

Armed with my trusty cameras, and possibly a few protein bars, I am on a mission. My day could be anything from 5-12 hours long once travel is included, and can be quite physical. Staying alert and observant is high on my list so the protein bars and a little caffeine is a must!

I have to say that no two days are ever the same. During the week is can be a mix of admin, editing and also connecting with couples. From time to time I have a few different photographic assignments, such as family sessions, property shoots and business branding, so there is always something to do.

You have a completely free day to hang out on the Sunshine Coast. Get out about! Where are you going, what are you doing and who are you with?

My day would start with a walk with my furry friend Benny then followed by Kunara Organic Marketplace! I love strolling the aisles of this insane food mecca. Food is definitely a weakness of mine, and finding all the local produce and products excites me, as supporting local is something I have always tried to do where possible.

Finding local music and beer gems is high on the agenda! So hit me up with your favourite local spots, I’m dying to know where to hang out in my down time! As I have only recently moved to the coast, I’m still learning about all the great things to do and places to visit. I can’t wait to indulge in this amazing little community!

Share something people may not know about you.

I am obsessed with YouTube! It’s my favourite learning space! And of course finding weird and wonderful reviews, mini-documentaries, DIYs, Tiny House living, Murder Mystery Makeup (yep its a thing), fashion, weddings – you name it, I watch it!

What is one unique service or offering or element that makes your business stand out from the crowd?

To stand out from the crowd I try my best to inject as much of my quirky personality (within reason) when photographing loved up couples. Of course, I pick my audience but an army of bad dad jokes and terrible dancing may make an appearance during your time in my company. I adore it when couples feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera and do my best to make this happen regardless of how it is achieved.

What do your happy clients always say after having worked with you?

When I hear back from couples about their wedding photography experience I love hearing how comfortable that they have felt being photographed. It certainly not easy being in front of a camera. You should see me when I take a turn, its quite funny! One of my favourite comments to date is that I have my own special air of spunk that immediately puts you, your family and friends at ease in any situation.

What’s trending in 2020 weddings?

The wedding landscape has changed a little since March and it is looking like couples everywhere are starting to favour a more intimate wedding with fewer guests and more love. It is turning out to be a beautiful opportunity for couples, in my opinion, to connect with not just family and friends with more intention but also with each other. I am feeling more love in the room a result when I have been fortunate enough to photograph weddings in 2020.

Run, don’t walk, to find out if Terri Hanlon is available to be your Sunshine Coast wedding photographer. Mention this article in your enquiry – you’ll receive an engagement shoot with your wedding photography package!

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Emma Nayler | A-List Vendor Profile

Sally Townsend — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 09:38:13 +0000

13 years in the wedding industry has taught wedding photographer, Emma Nayler, an awful lot and she has developed some seriously beautiful and grounded feelings about what some may see as a superficial industry. It’s her wholehearted approach and calming nature that people are drawn to – that is after they’re first attracted by her stunning work.

I first met Emma well before the birth of The Bride’s Tree. She was one of my first connections to the wedding industry, so when I came up with the idea for The Bride’s Tree, Emma was one of the very first people I sought out as a sounding board. Her support and positivity was a huge encouragement, so needless to say she’s a much adored member of our Bride’s Tree family.

Emma was kind enough to share her wisdom, her fave spots on the Sunshine Coast to walk her two sausage dogs, and her surprising hobby interest that was almost her very different career!

Scroll for a peek at some of Emma’s impressive work, and a special offer she has kindly extended to readers of The Bride’s Tree.

Emma, do you work with a team or are you a one-woman show?

It’s all me baby! I’m behind the screen emailing and doing all my own admin, editing, image selection, social media and marketing and on your wedding day I will be the one there snapping away! It’s hard and a lot more work than I think most people think it is, but I love all the different elements of running my business and would rather take less bookings and put my all into each one than to outsource things and lose the personal touch I like to think I give to each little thing in my business.

What is one unique service or offering or element that makes your business stand out from the crowd?

This is a hard one! Something I do hear from my couples time and time again is that I make people comfortable. They might come to me because they love the photos I take, but they stay and book because they feel good about working with me, and that it feels like they’re just hanging out with a friend.

In more practical terms, something that is a bit unique to me is that I don’t only just offer set hourly packages, because I don’t want my couples to try and cram their day into 4 or 6 or 8 hours. I allow a time frame for pre-ceremony photos and from there, depending on your chosen package, I’ll be along for the ride until either the start of the reception or the dance floor is pumping. I don’t want my couples watching the clock or worrying about me leaving before the first dance because things are running behind.

You have a completely free day to hang out on the Sunshine Coast. Get out about! Where are you going, what are you doing and who are you with?

There are so many ways to spend a day on the Sunshine Coast, but if it’s a sunny weekday I’m likely spending the day at the beach getting some sunshine with my girlfriends and a cheese platter. If it’s a magical work free weekend, I’m walking my dogs at Golden Beach or Point Cartwright (both spots chosen for the high volume of doggos) with my husband and then going on a date night with him to Copperhead Brewery or il Vento for some incredible wood-fired scampi pizza.

Share something that’s interesting about you, or something a lot of people don’t know.

I’ve been a bit of a true crime buff since I was quite young – in grade 7 we were tasked with doing a project on an ‘infamous person’, and much to my teacher’s surprise I presented a very light account of the life of Charles Manson, with an accompanying hand drawn portrait of him. These days I have quite an interest in wrongful convictions and criminal psychology, which is what I had intended to study before I became a wedding photographer.

What’s your prediction for 2019/2020 wedding trends?

I don’t really pay a tonne of attention to trends in the wedding industry, but I do think a shift has been in motion for a while now towards creating a day that really celebrates who the couple are. No longer is the wedding industry geared solely towards “brides” and the idea of this fairytale event where the show runs perfectly every time. It’s about the couple, whether they are a bride and groom, or two brides and two grooms, and how they want to celebrate their commitment to be each other’s person forever. I’m hoping that continues more and more, because a wedding isn’t a performance, it’s a celebration, and if you let go of the expectations surrounding it and just do you, you’re gonna have a really good time. I’ll help you remember all of it – that’s my thing

Tell us about your history in your business and in the wedding industry.

2019 is my 13th year of photographing weddings! Every year there have been new challenges and things to learn about my business and weddings, and the industry is ever evolving. I’ve seen lots of trends and fads, and lots of people start in this industry and leave again because it really does take a certain type of person to stick it out in this business. I really hope that I get to do this for years to come and that my experience and who I am will continue to mean something to couples the way it has for the last 13 years!

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER JUST FOR THE BRIDE’S TREE READERS

The next three couples to book 2020 weddings before the end of August 2019 will receive a free upgrade to full day coverage for the price of my essentials package! That’s an $1100 saving on your wedding photography! Mention this article to secure your upgrade. See the packages.

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Tara Lee Toohey | A-List Vendor Profile

Sally Townsend — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 19:15:40 +0000

Whenever I run into The Tara Lee of Tara Lee Photography, I know I’m in for a good chat. We move smoothly through #mumlyfe observations to exchanging podcast and book recommendations, to my inevitable admiration of her effortless comfy-chic style. She’s one of those people with whom each interaction is easy and authentic.

Tara Lee is all about creating a thoughtful experience for her clients – and of course stunning photography. Giving you her everything on your wedding day, ensuring you have a relaxed and enjoyable time is as much part of her job as taking incredible photos. That’s the difference between a good wedding photographer and a great one.

This August will mark Tara Lee’s 15th year working as a Sunshine Coast wedding photographer. Even after 15 years, her passion for both photography and the wedding industry remains strong. She says, “It’s truly been an honour to capture so much beauty, love and raw emotion.”

Tara and I had a chat, and she shared some insight into her processes and passions…

Tara, take me through your on-the-wedding-day process…

I have a process to get my head into wedding mode – checking my equipment again, healthy lunch, reviewing all the wedding details and then head out with great excitement and anticipation of how the day will unfold. I shoot as much as I can, I bring an inspiration shot list of things I want to try and new ideas. I am all about keeping the time for the couple to ensure the day runs smoothly and without stress to the timeline we have discussed. After the wedding I back up everything captured on to two hard drives and try and get a sneak peak up for the couple that night.

You have a completely free day on the Sunshine Coast. Where are you going, what are you doing, and who are you with?

I LOVE the Sunshine Coast and all it has to offer. On a day off I am usually with my family heading out on an adventure in the morning and then doing something chill in the afternoon. We love sailing near Golden Beach passage, surfing at Happy Valley, walking the board walk in Coolum, bush walking in Maleny Hinterland in search of waterfalls, and finding new places on the Coast… email me with your favorites!

What’s something people may not know about you?

Something people may not know about me is that I am married to the great love of my life, man of my dreams Jayden from Sunshine Coast Videography. I am his biggest fan, his work inspires me.

What is one unique service or offering or element that makes your business stand out from the crowd?

The only truly unique thing I can offer you is me – my experience, my eye, my passion and my desire to see your wedding be an effortless day full of authentic emotion and joy.

Share some words from one of your happy clients…

“Tara without question is the best photographer for your special day or family portraits. She is so professional but yet the nicest most down to earth person you will ever meet. She takes the most amazing pics, ones to cherish forever. Don’t even question if she is the photographer for your special day or family portraits the answer is hell yes she is I will forever be grateful for the photos she has captured for us. The hardest decision is choosing which photos to frame or canvas. Tara your (SIC) the best.” – Linda

Special Photography Offer

The next 10 couples that book their wedding with Tara Lee Photography before August 30th will receive a 20-minute engagement session at Wurtulla Beach with two images of their choosing. Just fill in a contact form to get things started.

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Australian Bush Engagement Shoot | Jessie and Dan

Sally Townsend — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 19:00:21 +0000

Jessie and Dan have kindly shared with us their idyllic Australian Bush engagement shoot with Adriana Watson. The Sunshine Coast wedding photographer took the couple to one of her favourite photo shoot locations in a rustic bush setting.

Their Story

Dan and Jessie met at Rainbow beach in 2007 while working together at a restaurant, Dan as a chef and Jessie as a waitress. Jessie first noticed how polite and handsome Daniel was, and Daniel fell for Jess’s quirkiness, her smile and her laugh.

In 2008 they started dating and it only took Dan seven years to propose. He surprised Jessie with the proposal while on a romantic getaway to Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat and soon the decision was made to get married on their 10th anniversary. They have planned a vintage garden ceremony at Dan’s childhood home in Buderim and will be continuing the celebration at the Buderim Tavern.

Of course the talented Adriana Watson will be there on the day to capture all the special moments as beautifully as she has their Australian Bush engagement shoot.

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Styled Shoot | A Forgotten Forest

Sally Townsend — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 03:05:56 +0000

Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings, a creative team of local Sunshine Coast wedding vendors we are in complete awe of dreamt up this Forgotten Forest wedding inspiration shoot.

Sunshine Coast Florist, Nat Evans, of Heavenly Blooms, Photographer Bonnie Jenkins and styling duo Boho Sisters formed a team drawn to the same aesthetics and work efforts with a sense of adventure in wedding style creativity. The team set out to create something truly unique, amplifying the beauty of nature in an abundance of lush green forestry.

Bonnie says, “We wanted this boho luxe shoot to celebrate both nature and the fun of a brides squad. Seeing all of our different elements and vision come together was a buzz.”

Taking earthy textures and tones, with a nod to the changing of seasons, the team infused a touch of decadence in draping wild bouquets and a circular arbour, adding pops of colour and bringing more life to uplift the forest floor, littered with browning leaves.

Thank you for supporting our A-list Vendors, who collaborated to make this shoot so incredible…

Learn more about… Bonnie Jenkins + Heavenly Blooms + Natalie Hunter Makeup Artist

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Noosa Engagement Documented

admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 19:00:00 +0000

There is a new photographer in town, lovely Sunshine Coast brides, and you are going to adore his unique documentary-style photography. Simon J Coulson is the photographer for those couples, who are more sold on real moments than deliberate poses.

We are completely loving on this intimate engagement shoot, shot in beautiful Noosa.

Amazing news – we can also reveal Simon has a full day wedding coverage package to give away to one lucky bride. It’s super easy to enter online. There are ten days left to get your entry in, so don’t delay.

The post Noosa Engagement Documented appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

The Prettiest of Maleny Wedding Days

admin — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:00:00 +0000

Heath broke the golden rule. It’s an honour code amongst mates – do not date your mate’s sister. Actually, Heath and Emily were great friends and joined at the hip, even before they started dating, so Emily’s big brother didn’t seem to mind too much.

Seven is the lucky number for this pretty pair – they were dating for seven months before Heath popped the question, and then they spent a further seven months planning their Maleny wedding. Well… Emily planned the wedding, anyway. Heath was more than happy to hand over the reigns, so the theme was left up to the soon-to-be Mrs, who themed their special day to fit with the romance and elegance of their hinterland wedding venue, House of Laurels.

This super pretty day was full of fun and laughter, and even a set of split pants to lighten the mood – in the bridal party and no less. Fortunately, this group didn’t need to look far to find the humour in such a wedding day hitch!

Emily and Heath shared a most wonderful day, split pants and all. Startlingly stunning images ensued from none other than Sunshine Coast wedding photographers, Artography.

“I had both my mother and father walk me down the aisle. I loved having them both with me in that moment.“

“We absolutely loved our wedding day and how all the photographs turned out, it was such an amazing day with lots of love and laughter!”

Wedding Secrets Revealed

Bridal Gown: Purchased online for $275!

Accessories: I bought earrings from a boutique in brisbane city for $45, all other jewellery I wore on

the day was my families bits and pieces. My nan made my veil.

Shoes: Zu Shoes in Brisbane city for $120

Bridesmaids dresses: Purchased online

Groom and groomsmen’s shoes and suit: We had a lot of difficulty finding suit hire to fit my husband and

the groomsmen, as they are all big men! We hired their suits.

Gifts for the parents: Vera Wang Silver Photo frames to frame two photos from the wedding.

Gifts for the groomsmen: Wolf cufflinks and hip flasks filled with Patron

Gifts for the bridesmaids: Matching robes we all wore in the morning getting ready, and earrings to wear on the day.

Gifts for the flower girls: Sterling silver necklaces with in scripted love heart pendants.

DIY: Stationery – Invitations and Place Cards

Number of guests: 86

Wedding budget: $35,000

“Our day actually went off without a hitch! However, one of heaths groomsmen did split his pants as a result from a mid air jump photo! Very funny! Luckily the whole bridal party had such a great sense of humour, it just added to our hilarious afternoon.“

“My husband and I met through my older brother, Chris… Heath broke the golden rule – don’t date your mate’s sister!”

“Photos were taken in the garden at the venue, paddocks around the venue and grass hills on mountain view road, Maleny ( backing onto the glass house mountains.)“

“Our first and biggest priority for the wedding was all about the venue: We wanted one that catered for the ceremony, reception and provided accommodation for friends and family who all had to travel for the occasion.”

“Heath happily gave me full control of themes and colour scheme.It wasn’t until after seeing how sweet the venue was, with its country elegance, vintage garden feel. I decided on the classic pale pinks and champagne colours.”

“My mother was an absolute lifesaver when it came to putting plans into actions with our wedding; the angel spent weeks collecting the final touches,ordering flowers, hand writing place cards and bagging our bomboniere lollies.”

“Music was a combination of a wedding singer ‘Chris Hutchison’ ( great covers of both new and old songs) and pre-made playlists for our best man to DJ later in the night.”

Emily and Heath’s Wedding Secrets Revealed

Photographer: Artography

Florist: Exclusive Wedding Flowers and Jabula Rose Farm

Caterer: House of Laurels in house catering

Cake: Eden Cakes and Cupcakes

Bombonieres: Candy Addictions

Hair Stylist: Hot Brushes

Entertainment: Chris Hutchison (Singer)

Celebrant: Weddings with Kristy

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