Free Spirit Photography in Bright, Victoria | Photography and videography

Free Spirit Photography

Locality: Bright, Victoria

Phone: +61 400 204 052

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25.01.2022 Reflecting today on one of the more unpredictable years there ever was. A year that saw us reel from fires and evacuations, to a pandemic, lockdown and ‘remote learning’ plus a few broken bones amongst the family for good measure. A year when my business had to turn its back on ‘smart’ to do what was right; whether it be refunding rather than rebooking family sessions, working with wedding clients to re-imagine their plans & accommodate the ever-shifting sands (that all the ...beautiful engaged couples faced this year just trying to celebrate and make it official with their chosen one), or refusing enquiries that came through during the stay home orders. I have been inspired by my amazing community, I truly believe that the biggest thing my business has going for me is youthe ‘you’ reading this who maybe hit’s like now and then on something I share, or refers a friend. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. It has helped more than you know. I am signing off to take some time with my own family now, and I look forward to reconnecting in the new year, whatever it brings us. We are all amazing, resilient and exceptional. We’ve proven that in difficult times we can rise up and innovate. I am looking forward to the new year, not with rose coloured glasses, nor looking for a new normal but rather looking forward to seeing where I will fit in; where I can be of value and how I can serve my community, my clients and my friends & family. Here’s to making the new year the best it can be, whatever packaging it comes in. Ailsa x (Photo credit: Capture by Karen )

23.01.2022 Quick post to say a heartfelt congratulations to the new Mr & Mrs Campbell! Despite the many changes that this weekend brought about (hello winter weather!!), this was by far one of the best. We even managed to snag a stunning sunset in between the showers! More coming soon from these beautiful humans.

22.01.2022 These guys are on my screen tonight A little front-porch hangout in Myrtleford, and some belated celebrations in honour of Anne's birthday. It has been a long time since the kids could all come home, and the whole family could be together. It was made extra special by miss Ivy, who holds the proud title of "first Grandchild", and has just learned to walk the clever girl! ... I was honoured to be able to help capture some moments & create some new family portraits.

22.01.2022 This one steals my heart

22.01.2022 (The fun post) Look at that grin!! Ari & Hanna getting air, this is Mt Buffalo in the snow Snow means the usual positive-risk-taking shenanigans for us, made better by a Dad-built jump. ... If you could see yourselves in a shot like this, I'm making tentative dates with local families who are interested in a snow-play session. ------------------------------------- (But...serious post) Watching the news tonight. #sigh While the new abnormal has us (individually and collectively) taking things day by day; as a parent, business owner and wife of an emergency worker it is uncertain & often worrying. Even before border closures I made plans to stay home, though I'd been planning to visit with my family in N.S.W as they navigate new & existing health concerns. I must remember that none of these current challenges mean we should stop finding those precious moments to keep living a normal-ish life. In our family we have been trying to minimise the "2020" chat and focus on the positives. We're appreciating afresh the smallest opportunities and pockets of time. I know I have been purposefully creating (& documenting) moments for my crew, so that life can keep feeling balanced-both now but also when we look back. Yes we are insanely lucky to have Mt Buffalo on our doorstep. But the principle can be executed anywhere (over the years we have lived in our van, ram-shackled cottages, tents, a caravan, a mud hut and even spent whole summers completely outdoors with only a tarp and a solar shower) find the fun wherever you are. And communities, keep supporting each other x See more

21.01.2022 Despite battling this stupid broken wrist, and a domestic covid-scare lock-down (false alarm) right when the kids were due back at school, I have been loving working on this session so much. The light, the love, the banter. In amongst all this year's crazy, there is so much that's amazing and awesome and to be cherished if we take the time to gather it in. Jimmy and Kate your gallery is literally about to head out the door. Can't wait to share it. ... Ailsa x See more

21.01.2022 Wow....from "slowly" easing back into work in the brave new world, it has been a busy couple of weeks! It's a gorgeous Saturday here in the Alpine Shire, and it seemed a good time to pop in here and share a sneaky hint of some work I've been doing with these two talented women; they're at the market this morning in Bright, so go ask them what they're cooking up, and maybe even pick yourself up one of those very gorgeous yoga-mat bags for your next yoga-in-the-park session! ...These images are reminding me I may need to get back on the mat before I succumb to lock-down lock-up .............................................................................................. Makeup by Daisy Badrock Shot at 215 Mt Buffalo Retreat

21.01.2022 How lucky I have been to spend another afternoon with 2 of my favourite Wandi residents, and their delicious and divine boy. I first got to know Jimmy & Kate when I signed on to capture their (magnificent) Wandi wedding. We dodged the summer fires to document gorgeous Teddy's arrival. And then I got to go spend time with them again, stalking alongside as they moved through a typical day...from nap time, a little play, some lunch and then a sneaky trip to the park. ... My husband is lucky that we've definitely closed that chapter, because this boy who wakes up grinning, and carries on with the most delightful antics had me clucking just a tad. See more

20.01.2022 Yesterday afternoon was a warm one for chasing these guys around the hills and valleys; Billy made us work for it, but it was so worth it. Hard to believe its been two years since I last visited them with camera in hand. Last time Billy was a teeny tiny newborn, but a lot has changed, and when you're two there's a lot to explore; you can't always sit still for Mum and Dad (or the crazy lady with the camera!). I get it.... Now there's a little sister to prepare for, and I cannot wait to meet her when she comes. Thanks Em for being the hero that you are, I remember how hard (& hot!) everything feels when there's a little one squishing your insides and your two year old wants to do his thing....and Matt, you were the ultimate Rad-Dad. Thanks for being willing to go along with all my crazy ideas. Its an honour being trusted to create some more tangible moments for you all, can't wait to see which ones make it up on the wall. ** Special thanks also to my friend Jarrod, who helped me create a snake safety plan; so glad to have refreshed my knowledge around sensibly managing the risks for clients while still embracing our beautiful surrounds https://www.facebook.com/Kiewasnakecatcher

19.01.2022 Hope you're all having a snuggly Saturday morning These two doing it just right, in a cozy corner by the fire with a book or two at hand. Bliss.... Sidenote: was there ever a cuter, happier boy?? See more

19.01.2022 When the skies deliver rain, lean in

18.01.2022 If you stuck with me for another 12 days of "shop-local" fun, then thank you! I hope everyone had the opportunity to spend yesterday enjoying it in the best way that worked for them. Thanks to all the small businesses who show up to serve our great little community, keeping it vibrant and active throughout the seasons. Thanks especially to all the emergency services who are out helping keep lives, homes and property safe all year round.

18.01.2022 More prints out the door today, this one is a bit secret-squirrell as it's a surprise so I can't show you =( However I am confident it is going to be loved, in all its double matted, non-reflective glass glory. If anyone has photos that have been gathering the digital dust, please call me; together we can let them live their 'best life' out on display.... Ailsa x

18.01.2022 Mondays: is it Sunshine or Thunderclouds for you? And yep; this is an accurate description of their relationship at least half of the time

17.01.2022 Sharing a little 'Saturday-night-in' musing, over on my dedicated wedding space: which side would you be on? (And yep, this was a project I was set to launch at the beginning of the year when 2020 seemed like the year of shiny sparkly possibilities...) https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=176815460475587&id=107111524112648

16.01.2022 Thank goodness for Friday! For all the "remote learning" families, which side of the photo reflects your week the best, left or right? (Please share your stories from the trenches!). . .... . . . Popping in here makes it clear that, despite some big New Year goals, I have been appallingly M.I.A with 2020 social media so far. Like many others our household has tackled fires, evacuations (multiple broken bones!) and now a worldwide pandemic. Plus my littlest love started "Big School"! I love my work, and am a wildly passionate small business owner. But hands down my biggest responsibility has been mothering two mischievous, bright and brilliant little people; and I have unashamedly layed down the self-imposed schedule for them. I have been working on some great projects, but my heart hasn't been in sharing. Sometimes you have to just go with what is, and let go of what you had planned (I had SO many plans for this year). While the government has hit pause on a great majority of us, we have responded selflessly as a nation, state and community- and are now seeing encouraging results. Keep it up, take care of yourselves in these times and know that it's not forever. Ailsa x

16.01.2022 A little sneak peek from this morning's location...currently top secret but a fun little early morning adventure (someone may have had to go wading in the water...anything for the perfect shot right...?)

15.01.2022 So I would say that even at the best of times my relationship with social media could be labelled "complicated". The whole 2020 effect, combined with family health troubles and the emotional turbulence that comes along with it (and closed borders) has made that more evident than ever. While loads of my wildly talented peers showed up to keep us all inspired, I worked when allowed and kept my head down. To all my beautiful clients who's work I haven't shared; it's not you, it...'s me I am slowly re-emerging into a semblance of "new normal" however, and hope those of you out there juggling this year, big plans, families and feelings are doing the same. Squeeze your loved ones tight, and exit 2020 focusing on the good stuff...we're nearly there. *me with my littlest loves, by the genuine gem that is Karen from 'Capture by Karen' in Albury.

15.01.2022 Hey Mamma's! You're almost halfway through the holidays. Hope this time is being kind to you all. Ailsa xxx... (Here's my two making memories-though MY memories are of the hours of complex organisation and endless grumping to get between each "memory" )

10.01.2022 Oh 2020... I had so many great plans involving you. I was excited to be involved in some newlywed shennanigans through Melbourne's lane ways, I was following some gorgeous darlings to capture a week of sun-drenched frolicking in Corsica (Corsica damn-it!!) with a wedding thrown in, and possibly even catch one of my favourite darlings marry her one-and-only in my dearly loved Jinja (on the banks of the White Nile in Uganda). ... A calendar brimfull of possibility, autumn fun & sensational families... So you said ..."hold my glass", and delivered: Some raging bush fires, A two week evacuation, A broken arm (...followed immediately by) A broken foot And then, to complete your masterwork, you delivered a WORLDWIDE PANDEMIC! You don't muck around 2020; I'm almost not mad-your creative efforts and commitment to chaos are actually impressive. But while I am gathering up the tatters of some well laid plans, I'm taking a look back at some of my favourite darlings and their best moments, and hoping that out of the chaos comes something even better.

09.01.2022 A lot has been happening over the last few months behind the scenes. This week though it has felt like, as a business, I am starting to emerge from the cocoon. Here's to safely moving forward in these times... Luckily, with physical distancing, lots of hand-sanitiser and a longer lens I have been able to visit with families & make some new memories. ... #covid19 #movingforward #brightphotographer

09.01.2022 1 day until Christmas!! It's the last "shop with your locals" post for another year, and I've saved up a good one If you're looking for a last minute gift....(or a gift for yourself!) then stop by Bowerbird on Barnard st! ... Whether you're wanting something to spruce up the table, or you have a spot in you home that could use a little 'something', the team at Bower Bird have you covered. Now I know you can see for yourself that this is a store full of VERY pretty things, but did you know they can also fulfill all your Interior Decoration needs? With an extensive range of services including curtains and blinds, soft furnishings, colour consultations, furniture selections and more they are ready to help. So to chose the perfect last gift, or makeover your home in the new year, have a peek here or drop in: https://www.facebook.com/BowerbirdStyling/

09.01.2022 Working my way through this gorgeous gallery. Looking forward to catching up with these girls soon to share the final product.

08.01.2022 Another sneaky share from Ali and Zach's special day. They are so beautiful inside and out, and had a day to match at Halfmoon Creek in Wandilligong, surrounded by their stellar crew. Looking at these two, who wouldn't want a little rain on their wedding day?! Dress: Blue by Enzoani... Hair/makeup: Pricilla Armstrong Celebrant: Lynette Banister Flowers: Bright Florist Foliage: Autumn See more

07.01.2022 To all the gorgeous couples who have been waiting sooo patiently, there are some wonderful vendors ready to welcome you back with open arms and great inclusions. This one just popped up on my screen, and it definitely sounds worth looking into.... feel free share in the comments any other great suppliers you'd like to celebrate as we ease into a season of possibilities.

06.01.2022 A visual love letter to a couple of bike riding babes, celebrating their divine Buckland Valley wedding. Too many favourite moments, so here's a short journey through their day...from pre-ceremony champagne and skype calls, to an intimate and emotion-filled ceremony, to a wander through the grounds of their truly beautiful venue. Hayley and Scott, it was such an honour x... Flowers: Bright Florist https://www.facebook.com/brightflorist/ Hair/Make-Up: Priscilla, Hair and Makeup Artistry in Bright Venue: Buckland Valley Hazelnut Farm Celebrant: Libby Russel https://www.facebook.com/LibbyRussellCelebrant/

06.01.2022 This is what a strong woman looks like. Bec first spoke to me early in the year about creating a session for her. It was important to document this time; to honour the journey and the life she has made for herself. After the many trials and huge accomplishments of the last few years, it was time to truly appreciate how far she has come. This is a woman who has tackled adversity head on; and who, by chasing down some big goals with dedication, has achieved so much more than s...he ever envisaged. These portraits deserve to be shared and the achievements celebrated. I felt privileged to be asked, and I hope I've created a time capsule for you that does you justice Bec x

06.01.2022 While all our weddings need to remain flexible a little longer, dont forget what really matters. You two. Making your vows to one another, and promising to hold one another up, cherish, love, and grow old together in partnership. ... We all want ALL the things; and we want to share our love with the ones who make up our worlds. But if you are ready to take the leap now, then jump. I will catch it all for you if you are ready. Ailsa x

05.01.2022 Okay help me out team. I've been hearing a lot of interest, and am considering running a mini-session day soon. Would you lean towards sunflowers or an orchard session? Or would you be waiting for

05.01.2022 When three become four I am dying with these guys on my screen tonight...there is such a beautiful intimacy about this session (which belies the challenges of distancing indoors!). I hope that in capturing Nora's homecoming, I've caught the snuggly, quiet vibe that the 'baby bubble' brings. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ... To be honest, as much as I am loving this whole gallery, when I look at these I am a little bit envious. I wanted to do this for us when both my kids came along; and I didn't. Too many other places for the money to go, and I'd never even thought to ask for a payment plan- to make sure this precious, fragile slice of time was captured for us. I can tell you now that I wish I'd pulled the trigger. Tag someone you know who could use some precious moments documented. I know that in these uncertain times it can feel like an unnecessary luxury, but I never want anyone to miss out. I know most of my gorgeous & talented photographer friends can make a plan for just about any circumstance. If catching moments like these is something you value, then find someone who's work you love and pick up the phone. That's it, that's all. Ailsa x

05.01.2022 This session on Buffalo was such a dream...beautiful girl, beautiful mountain, beautiful light. But there's always that pressure too, especially as I knew how important these images were to Bec. So when I got this text from her....day made. "Just wanted to say thank you so so much! You have no idea what these photos mean to me, or just how far I've come. I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of them! You are a treasure xx"... I wish I could share the entire gallery. ......................................................... Hair and Makeup by Michelle at Cheeky Bits in Bright

04.01.2022 Are your weekends spent exploring Bright and surrounds? Have you ever thought of having a photographer tag along, to turn some of those beautiful moments into tangible keepsakes?? These guys did, and it was totally worth it. Thanks team for keeping me running, and for trusting me to pick out some new trails to explore

03.01.2022 We have had more than our share of smoke haze and crazy weather these last few months. Luckily for Scott and Hayley their love of Buffalo and our wild surrounds was returned in full, when the weather gods gifted them a day of perfection for their beautiful and intimate high country elopement. For a quick peek at some of the magnificence, click the link below. https://free-spirit-photography.smartslides.com/hayley-and-

03.01.2022 A Saturday-morning P.S.A: (**These boxes on the doorstep always signal some pretty special contents ) For those of you who think your photos belong on a screen, please scroll on and see what you're missing.... This gorgeous piece is a 600x800mm (23"x30") archival canvas with a white oak trim. Guaranteed for 75 years and just a joy to behold. #printwhatyouwanttopreserve

01.01.2022 Mark and Di...has that been a year already?!! Happy 1st Anniversary from us xx .....a day late but sent with ALL the love xx Here's hoping that all your anniversaries will have moments reflecting on this stellar day, your stellar spousal choices and maybe a snuggle on the couch leafing through that gorgeous album.