We chat to super talented Sunny Coast Designer/Photographer Janneke Storm about her stunning photos, working with Sticks and Stones, un-weddings, and finding yourself a mentor...
What first drew you into fashion photography?
Initially I was drawn in by the idea of working in the fashion industry; the beautiful people, beautiful clothes. It was an area of endless possibilities and opportunities that could take me anywhere. At the time, fashion for me was about fantasy, creating this idealistic world I could be apart of in some way. I had a few friends in the industry which influenced my initial pull towards fashion photography.
You have photographed the new Aussie fashion rockers on the block, Sticks and Stones Agency, on their wedding day in Vegas – how was that?
Crazy, spontaneous, fun and just outright amazing! The best 'un-wedding' (as Ainsley likes to call it) I've ever been to. Put it this way, you won't find many brides running to the chapel through the dirty streets of Vegas in their beautifully handmade gown and Converse sneakers. When they first asked me to come along and shoot their wedding, I had no idea it would be anything like it was. Vegas is actually really beautiful and was the perfect backdrop for their wedding.
You've also photographed Odd Pears (Carla McRae - who we interviewed late last year is part of the OP team!) a cute triple-odd-sock brand - what do you love most about supporting local artists and makers?
Carla is incredibly talented and was a huge honour to work alongside her. Carla and I are both from the Sunshine Coast and it's really interesting because the area has always been known to have a dry creative community. Over the last few years I've noticed some really amazing talent come out of the coast. So for me it's really important to support and work with other creatives locally, whether that's designers, stylists, make-up artists, models and hair stylists.
Your wedding photography is beautiful – what do you love most about capturing their special day?
Thank you! I love shooting weddings, it's the happiest and most exciting day of the couples lives. Even being apart of that day is a huge honour for me. Capturing their love, excitement, connection and intimacy is what I love most.
Over the last few years I've noticed some really amazing talent come out of the coast. So for me it's really important to support and work with other creatives locally, whether that's designers, stylists, make-up artists, models and hair stylists.
What are you working on right now?
Right now I'm working on a few personal projects to keep my creative vision flowing. I've got an exciting year ahead, few international trips which will make for some amazing shots.
What advice would you give photographers starting out?
Get a mentor, it changed my photography. Julian Beattie is my mentor and friend, I can't even begin to imagine where I would be without him. Make sure you choose someone you really look up to and will challenge you to do better. I would also say to work really really hard and don't expect things to happen overnight because they don't; persistence, sweat, tears and some blood will get you there.
