Bio:
I’m a family photographer based in Brisbane, Australia. I started my business Hikari Lifestyle Photography in 2021 but I worked as a second shooter for another wedding photographer for about 6 years before starting out on my own.
My brand is unique because I use various forms of art in my photography to create one of a kind portraiture. My art isn’t all about pixelated images from a camera; I love incorporating cultural elements, floral arrangements, interior design, music, creative writing to my photography. ‘Hikari’ means ‘light’ in Japanese; in my art world I want people to feel light, optimistic, seen, happy and empowered through emotive, storytelling imagery that encapsulates the magic of motherhood.
About the Session:
This fine art maternity studio session had so much elegance and romance. I was lucky to work with Maddie who fully trusted me and allowed me to get totally creative with this shoot. i have always been really inspired by French architecture, interior design, home decor, fashion and art. Thus, I wanted to create a modern vintage-styled shoot with French provincial pieces to accentuate Maddie’s beauty.
Gear Used:
-Sony A7iii camera + 35mm lens
Find More Here:
Tips on painting your own backdrop
I encourage every photographer to paint their own backdrops to create something totally unique to their art. Colours, textures, marbling, splash droplets all convey different things which is what makes every backdrop one of a kind.
- For starters you’ll need a canvas, paint brushes and paint. Start practising with canvas paint drop sheets from Bunnings (aka Home Depot in the USA) and interior wall paint to see if you enjoy the process. This is super budget friendly - you can easily paint your first backdrop for under $100.
- Drop sheets come in all sizes- you can certainly buy smaller ones to do colour swatches first. 9x12’ is pretty standard for family photos but I usually do smaller sizes such as 7x10’ (fits 2 adults) it’s easier for transport to clients homes.
- Choose 3-4 colours to create dynamic. For instance, we used beige, white, grey and taupe here. For beginners I’d recommend sticking with 2 neutrals and 1-2 warm tones or 1-2 cool tones. Not a mix of warm and cool colours.
- I would divide the canvas into 4 quarters with imaginary lines so you won’t be overwhelmed painting such a large canvas all at once.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with new tools. Painting sponge, paint knife, the Woolie (link below), old rags all create interesting textures. I’ve heard fabric softener can be quite good too.
- Paint away - it's a great way to relieve stress. You’ll need to paint at least 2 layers for depth and dynamic. Always allow at least 24 hours for the paint to dry before applying other colours.
- You can also invite your kids to join and make it a fun family activity. It’s not as difficult as you may think! Every photographer needs another form of creative medium to escape to to avoid burnout. Painting is a great way to release stress and help you become even more inspired as an artist.
- Once you feel comfortable you can buy quality canvas and paint to work with.
- My greatest inspiration comes from Jessica from JRDartshop. She is an incredibly talented abstract artist - Give her a follow and check out her work for backdrop inspiration!
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Wow! I never thought to give it a try myself. Thank you for the encouragement. I have some paper backdrops I could practice on or do you suggest going straight to canvas?