MILLY HOOPER

MENTOR | photography

Milly Hooper, a proud Ngiyampaa, Murrawarri, Kooma woman,stands as proof of the transformative power of visual storytelling. With a commitment to challenging stereotypes and celebrating her Indigenous heritage, Hooper embarked on her creative journey in 2016, driven by a desire to capture the essence of Aboriginal identity, culture, and connection. From Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, to the bustling streets of Newcastle, Hooper's passion for photography has blossomed, leaving an indelible mark on both her life and the lives of those she encounters.

Growing up with limited photographic mementos of her own childhood after being disconnected from her biological mother, Hooper recognises the profound significance of preserving memories for future generations. “Now as a mum of four kids, I make sure I capture every moment I can that will tell a story for now and later in their lives,” she says, reflecting on her own journey as both a mother and an artist.

Hooper's foray into photography began on Arrernte country, where she resided with her family. With a dearth of representation of Aboriginal families in mainstream photography, she took a leap of faith, offering to capture the stories and moments of her community. Armed with little more than a passion for her craft and a determination to challenge stereotypes, Hooper embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. Her resilience and dedication bore fruit when a benevolent gesture from a friend – a gifted camera – served as a catalyst for her burgeoning career. “He didn't want anything for the camera as it was a gift, but just said he wanted me to 'just keep taking photos',” Hooper says, underscoring the importance of support and belief in nurturing artistic endeavors.

Over the years, Hooper's photography has opened doors to myriad opportunities and experiences, from assisting esteemed photographers such as Aunty Barbara McGrady to documenting significant cultural events and collaborations with organisations championing Indigenous causes. As a member of the Blak Lens collective, Hooper's work has been showcased in exhibitions such as “First Sight” at the Head On Photo Festival, showcasing the depth and diversity of Aboriginal visual storytelling.

For Hooper, photography is more than just a profession – it's a passion imbued with purpose. “I love that I can capture a moment that can be treasured for years to come,” she says, highlighting the emotive power of imagery to transcend language and convey meaning. Whether she's traversing remote landscapes or capturing intimate family portraits, Hooper's infectious smile is a testament to her unwavering joy and fulfillment behind the lens.

Drawing inspiration from her supportive family and the myriad stories waiting to be told, Hooper imparts valuable advice to budding photographers: take chances, embrace lifelong learning, and resist the urge to compare oneself to others. In a world where every click of the shutter holds the potential to illuminate untold narratives, Hooper stands as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and cultural pride. Through her lens, she continues to weave a tapestry of beauty, connection, and empowerment, inviting viewers to witness the world through her eyes – one photograph at a time.

WRITTEN BY JACK BAILEY