Mama of two boys Harvey, 8 and Fletcher, 5 and talented photographer Elana Mullaly has long been on our horizon as a one to watch. We chat to her about all things mamahood and photography.
1. How do you blend your passion for photography with motherhood?
I have always had a passion for photography but when my first born arrived it became clear that these days move fast and I wanted to document everything and hold onto these memories. When my second born arrived it became clear I wanted to do this as a profession. They have taught me all the patience I need to document families, they are wildlings! And although I am off at sunset it means my days are spent with them and I can see them do sports carnivals and spend school holidays with them.
2. Can you share some tips for parents on how to dress their children for a photoshoot? What styles and colours do you find photograph best?
I always say have a vision of where you want to hang your portraits and how you want those portraits to feel. Maybe you want to remember this phase of life as super fun and cheery, realistic, casual or match the decor in your home, it might be neutral or eclectic. I am a lover of colour and personality, I have a real obsession on how colours look together. For our own family shoots I’ll choose colour combinations that make me happy like rust and dusty blue or cocoa brown with burgundy. I personally love photographing mustard, rust, ochre, sage and forrest green, dusty pink, burgundy, dark brown. Neutral tones and earthy colours are timeless and will suit a vast majority of editing styles. It’s always great to check with your photographer and make sure your vibe matches theirs. I personally dislike editing navy and white outfits together.
3. What are some of your favourite moments or challenges you’ve captured of children in your photography?
Often parents will tell me beforehand their child may be autistic or neurodivergent, they are shy, crazy etc. I get so much satisfaction from teasing out their true little personalities, I think it may be my super power. Whilst not every shoot will have a child who follows direction, I have ways of capturing their personality but keeping it fun for them. I sense when a parent feels worried that I haven’t got the shots or it felt overwhelming. My favourite thing ever is surprising them with a gallery full of joy and connection.
