3 minute read
Looking at the big picture with Kasey Funnell
You’ve no doubt seen award-winning AIPP photographer, Kasey Funnell’s work in and around Canberra. Specialising in interiors, lifestyle, and property photography, Kasey’s ever-growing list of clients and publishers is testament to her skill and absolute love for what she does. To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th, we caught up with this local industry leader to discuss the inspiration behind starting her own business, why she loves photographing property, and what’s next for her creative career.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN PHOTOGRAPHY?
In 2012, my little family and I packed up our life and went exploring around Australia. It was during this amazing period of nomadic living that I began dreaming about how I wanted to live my life on our return to society – as a photographer. I must admit, I have had a love affair with photography for my whole life – it’s in my DNA. One of the greatest joys early on in my life was developing film in the darkroom. I was very lucky to start my career and photography education in film photography.
WHAT DO YOU FIND APPEALING ABOUT SHOOTING PROPERTY?
It’s no secret that I seriously enjoy architecture, good quality builds and brilliantly designed and created interiors. These are my absolute favourite shoots to be a part of. The cherry on top is when I can add some bespoke lifestyle elements to the environment I’m shooting in.
IS THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I’ve had many amazing experiences so far in my career, especially being able to travel for work. The most important thing to me so far has been the relationships I have formed, which has attracted the right type of work and brought me enjoyment. It has become very apparent to me that a creative career can be the most rewarding job you can hope to have as long as you are TRUE to your vision, true to yourself and your style. I’m lucky that I have clients who appreciate this and hire me because of this.
WHAT ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS?
I’m not one to search for inspiration online. It mostly comes organically to me. I don’t want to be a copy of someone else’s work, but I do enjoy workshops that inspire and motivate me as a human rather than as a photographer. The only other creative outlet I find equally as relaxing and meditative as photography is wheel throwing/pottery.
Photography by Kasey Funnell
HOW HAS THE INDUSTRY CHANGED AND HOW HAVE YOU ADAPTED?
The industry is always changing – you need to keep up, be innovative and as unique as you can, but the core values in business always remain the same. Build strong relationships with your clients, be loyal, work hard and exceed expectations.
WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO WORK FOR YOURSELF?
I am a bit of a control lady so working for myself suits me perfectly. I know what needs to be done and how to get there. My creative vision is what makes my work (hopefully) unique! Making sure I set guidelines and be strong in business is important… I am a creative mum who runs a business. One day, I’ll bring on staff to help with the workload when I want to expand.
Photography by Kasey Funnell
HAVE YOU ALWAYS LIVED AND WORKED IN THE ACT AND SURROUNDING REGION?
Yes, I am a Canberra/Queanbeyan girl and I feel so lucky to be living and working in the beautiful bush capital. I must admit I always feel the pull to the ocean and warmth... plus I admire different architecture in other cities and countries.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR KASEY FUNNELL PHOTOGRAPHY?
Working full time in the industry doesn’t leave me as much time as I’d like to enjoy photography as a ‘hobby’, however, I do have several amazing ideas bubbling away that are going to be seriously rad personal projects. My mind is always busy… watch this space for workshops, lifestyle images for sale, a blog/exhibition on spaces, and unique films!
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kaseyfunnellphotography.com.au
