A CHAT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER MAD BURKE
We’re excited to share the second interview in a new series of discussions with creative people working in and around the studio. This week we speak with photographer Madeleine Burke.
Thanks for chatting with us Mad! Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your business and what you do?
Hello! My name is Mad, I’m a photographer based in Geelong and a mum to Frankie who is nearly two. At the moment I am busy juggling mum and work life! Since moving to Geelong four years ago my folio has expanded a little. I’ve been shooting a bit of fashion, product, landscape/architecture and more recently, some motherhood shoots.
We’d love to know about some of projects you’ve worked on lately.
Cotton On have been keeping me busy with e-commerce shoots, and I’ve just sent off a beautiful project for Melbourne-based jewellery designer Bella Clark today!
Where do you look for inspiration and what is inspiring you lately?
I love finding other photographers through Instagram and really looking into the work they’ve created and how their folio has evolved over time. Light usually inspires me — how it falls on someone’s face or product and how you can manipulate it with studio lights. At the moment raw motherhood shoots are inspiring me — unposed chaotic shots either captured on film or digital. I’m also really into up close product shoots, where mundane materials are paired with high end product. I’m fan-girling over photographers Lauren Bamford, Becca Crawford and Lilli Waters at the moment.
Can you share a book, TV show, article or podcast that you’ve enjoyed or has particularly resonated with you recently?
The latest TV show I absolutely loved was Euphoria. For podcasts, I usually have Beyond the Bump on high rotation as well as The Imperfects, Talking In Common and anything business related. How I Built This is also a goodie.
What are your favourite places to eat and drink in Geelong? Best coffee spot?
Best coffee hands down is Common People in East Geelong. My favourite spots to eat would be Sober Ramen, Felix, Centra and The Arborist.
You’re heading on a day trip within an hour’s drive of Geelong, where do you choose to go?
I would probably head down the coast for a nice beach walk and coffee/lunch. Torquay or Apollo Bay is usually our go to as a family.
Can you recommend a fellow creative business you’ve worked with recently in Geelong?
I worked with Annie from Mayfield recently, who is a dream to work for! She has hosted a couple of 'Style Series' events that are beautifully curated in collaboration with THE KO and a designer/creative is interviewed. It's a fun night shooting clothing from Mayfield, the crowd and styling details.
Words of wisdom or advice you’ve found helpful as a creative in business?
Let go of perfectionism — although I still struggle with this!
