About Elderflower Ephemera

I’m a Brisbane-based fine art photographer living and working on Yuggera and Turrbal land.

I acknowledge the Yuggera and Turrbal Elders of the past and present in Meanjin, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continuing connection to Country and their stories told through traditional and contemporary arts practise.

Hi 👋 I’m Libby,

My passion is photographing the world as it is, embracing imperfections and celebrating natural beauty. I don’t use digital filters, everything you see is a result of using vintage lenses and film.

I started Elderflower Ephemera because I wanted to share my unique photographic vision and I want to help you tell your authentic story through collaboration and artistic experimentation.

I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Photography from the Queensland College of Art in 2010 and from then to 2016 I only shot digital. During this time I found I was spending less time behind a camera and more time in front of a computer. In 2017 I took my hand-me-down 35mm SLR travelling through Seoul and Tokyo and it brought me so much joy. Once I returned home, I began experimenting with my large collection of vintage film cameras.

That’s when I realised what had been missing. I missed the experience of trying different cameras, learning about how they work, about their own special quirks that made them all individual. Experimenting with different formats, different lenses, different film resulted in joyous and exciting image-making. The experience was so unlike digital, where everything just felt the same.

Brand photography is about more than a squeaky clean and perfected headshot. I choose the perfect combination of film and camera to tell your unique story.

Learn more about personal branding photography

Elderflower

the flower of the elder, used to make wines, cordials, and other drinks.

EPHEMERA

things that exist or are used or enjoyed for only a short time.

MY VALUES

Collaboration

Collaboration is about more than just people working together. For me, it’s about a true connection between myself and my client. It’s easy because we share the same values. When I get to know you and your personality it’s as simple as capturing it on film.

Experimentation

The magic of my photography is all about the photochemical reaction. Experimentation isn’t about leaving things to chance (although that is fun too), it’s about understanding your desired aesthetic and making informed artistic choices. It can range from simply using an old camera to souping film in washing detergent!

Authenticity

As a commercial photographer I am constantly pushing against the pressure to produce perfected photographs. I can’t help but find these images boring – give me character and imperfections any day! Not only is it my favourite way to photograph you, it’s your secret weapon to connecting with your audience. Truth builds trust.