After photographing more than 150 weddings across Central Queensland over the past decade, I've seen what works well and what couples often wish they'd considered before booking their venue. One of the first and most exciting decisions you'll make while planning a wedding is choosing the location. Your venue helps set the tone for the entire day, influences your guest experience, and often shapes many of the other decisions that follow. As a Central Queensland photographer who's captured weddings everywhere from the Yeppoon beachfront to rural Outback Queensland properties and Rockhampton hire spaces, I've seen first hand how the right venue can make planning smoother and create an unforgettable day for couples and guests. Here are five important things to consider when choosing your perfect wedding venue. Pictured: Paradise Lagoons, Rockhampton Wedding. Think About Your Guest Numbers Before you fall in love with a venue on Instagram, have a realistic idea of how many guests you'll be inviting (I know - it can be harder than it seems!). A venue that feels intimate and welcoming for 40 guests may feel crowded with 80, while a large venue can sometimes feel empty if your guest list is much smaller. Minimum numbers may also apply for some spaces. Ask venues about both their seated and cocktail-style capacities depending on your preference, and consider how the space will feel once tables, dance floors, bars, and styling elements are added. As a photographer, I've found that venues that comfortably fit your guest list not only create a better atmosphere but also make the day flow more naturally. Pictured: The Orchard Yeppoon Wedding. Consider Accessibility and Logistics Central Queensland is blessed with some incredible wedding locations, from coastal venues around Yeppoon and Emu Park to country retreats further inland. While a stunning location can be enticing, it's important to consider the practical side as well. Being able to host your preparations, ceremony, and reception in one location is a major advantage for both you and your guests. It reduces travel time, simplifies the day’s schedule, and means more time spent enjoying the celebration with the people you love. It’s also important to consider how your guests will get to and from the venue, along with nearby accommodation options, particularly for remote or destination weddings or when family and friends are travelling to attend. Ask yourself: How far will guests need to travel? Is there nearby accommodation? Will there be enough parking and seating? Will elderly guests or young families be able to access the venue comfortably? How easy is it for your vendors to access the location? If you're planning a destination-style wedding, having accommodation nearby or shuttle buses available can make the experience far more enjoyable for everyone involved. Pictured: Mitchell Grass Retreat, Longreach Outback Queensland Wedding. 3. Choose a Venue That Matches Your Style As someone who sees a lot of people tie the knot, the couples who choose to create a wedding that really represents them always stand out. Your wedding venue should feel like an extension of who you are as a couple. If you love relaxed coastal vibes, a beachfront or waterfront venue on the Capricorn Coast may be the perfect fit. If you're dreaming of a country-inspired celebration, a rural retreat or homestead might better reflect your vision. Perhaps you're drawn to elegant gardens, historic buildings, or modern event spaces. The more naturally your venue aligns with your wedding style, the less you'll need to spend on transforming it. It also helps create a cohesive look throughout your photographs. By choosing a venue that genuinely reflects your personalities, your wedding day will feel more authentic and relaxed. 4. Don't Forget About Wet Weather Options. Pictured: St Aubins Village, Rockhampton Wedding. 4. Don't Forget About The Weather As much as we'd all love guaranteed sunshine, weather doesn't always cooperate in Central Queensland - particularly if you are considering a summer or autumn wedding date. One of the most important questions you can ask any venue is: "What are your backup options for poor weather?" in case it ends up raining, freezing cold or boiling hot. Having a solid Plan B reduces stress for everyone if conditions change unexpectedly and a good backup option should feel like a genuine alternative rather than an afterthought. Consider whether an indoor option can comfortably accommodate your plans, whether it still suits your vision, and whether it provides enough shelter and comfort for guests. From a photography perspective, venues with flexible and well lit indoor/undercover spaces can help ensure beautiful photographs regardless of the weather (or, we can carry on armed with umbrellas and embrace the situation). Pictured: Maleny Orchard, Sunshine Coast Hinterland Elopement. 5. Look Beyond the Venue Hire Price When comparing venues, it's important to consider the overall costs and inclusions rather than the initial hire fee. Some venues operate as a blank canvas. While this gives you complete freedom to customise your wedding, it often means you'll need to organise additional items including furniture, linens, catering equipment, generators, toilets and styling (as well as take the time to set up or hire a coordinator). If you're having an outdoor reception, hiring a shelter such as a marquee/teepee is also a major consideration (and this probably means you'll need to hire lighting and flooring on top of the base price). Other venues offer more inclusive packages that may include tables, chairs, catering, bar service, staff, on the day coordination, set up, pack down and even accommodation. A venue with a higher upfront price may ultimately save money, time, and stress if many essentials are already included. Neither option is right or wrong. It simply depends on your priorities, budget, and how much time you want to invest in planning. Pictured: Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef Wedding. Whether you're planning a beachfront wedding in Yeppoon, a rural celebration outside Rockhampton, or a private property wedding elsewhere in Central Queensland, taking the time to choose the right venue will make every other aspect of your wedding planning easier. When should I book my wedding venue? Many popular Central Queensland wedding venues book 12-24 months in advance, particularly during the peak wedding season. The first three things you book should be your venue, photographer and celebrant as a general rule. How many venues should we visit before booking? Most couples visit between two and five venues before making a decision. Take the time to see venues in person, ask plenty of questions, and imagine how your wedding day will actually unfold within the space. What's the most important factor when choosing a wedding venue? Your perfect wedding venue isn't necessarily the most expensive, the most popular, or the most picturesque. The best venue balance guest experience, budget, location and your personal wedding vision.

How could I not share this images of Paige in the most perfect sage green dress?! She and Jack told me they weren't very photogenic... as usual, I beg to differ. Her Mum, Su also left a glowing review after their experience: "Maddy was absolutely wonderful to work with when she photographed my daughter’s Year 12 formal. From the moment we arrived, she made us feel comfortable, relaxed, and completely at ease. She was incredibly accommodating and took the time to ensure the photos reflected exactly what we wanted. Her professionalism, creativity, and friendly nature made the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free. The photos captured such special memories that we will treasure for years to come. We will definitely be booking more sessions with Maddy in the future. I cannot recommend Madelyn highly enough to anyone looking for beautiful, memorable photographs and a fantastic photography experience." If you'd like to capture your upcoming school graduation, please contact me for more information (I regularly book formals 12+ months in advance).

As a wedding photographer with over a decade of experience, I've seen first hand how much more meaningful a wedding can be when couples choose to go unplugged. If you haven’t heard of the concept, it just means asking guests to turn off cameras and mobile devices for a period of time at your wedding – usually for the ceremony, or sometimes for the whole celebration. While it might seem like a small request, it can make a huge difference to both your experience and your photographs. In an age where our phones have become an extension of our fingertips, it's refreshing to switch off and just enjoy the moment. While it might seem like a small request, it can make a huge difference to both your experience and your photographs. In an age where our phones have become an extension of our fingertips, it's refreshing to switch off and just enjoy the moment. Doing so encourages your guests to be truly present as you say ‘I do’ and embrace the emotion of your nuptials (and make the most of the time to catch up with loved ones too!) by taking away the distraction of technology. It also allows your photographer to do their job uninterrupted, ensuring the most important moments of your day are captured without guests interfering or obstructing the professional images. From a photographer's perspective, it also allows me to do my job uninterrupted, ensuring the most important moments of your day are captured without guests interfering or obstructing the professional images. So what’s the key to having an unplugged wedding without causing offense? A note on your invitations or wedding website, a sign at the ceremony entrance, and a friendly announcement from your celebrant before proceedings begin are all effective ways to communicate your wishes and help ensure everyone is on the same page. Your guests are going to be SO excited to see you get married and will want a visual memento of the occasion, so it can be nice to encourage photos at set moments (such as your cake cutting) throughout the day. In this case, have your celebrant or MC ask guests to wait while the photographer captures each formality first, then invite anyone else wanting to take photos to come up once they have finished. Whether you opt for unplugged or simply ask guests to refrain from posting on social media until the first professional images have been released, most guests will happily oblige. Whether you opt for unplugged or simply ask guests to refrain from posting on social media until the first professional images have been released, most guests will happily oblige. An unplugged ceremony is one simple choice that can lead to a more intimate, memorable, and beautifully photographed celebration. Ultimately, it is your special day and the decision is completely up to you!

Countless couples come to me and say 'we're not fans of the camera' - it might seem counter-intuitive, but this and plenty of other reasons below mean should your probably think about an engagement session! To get comfortable with being photographed. If you or your partner are concerned about being in front of the camera, this is a great opportunity to build confidence and calm your nerves by knowing what to expect on the big day – we can't re-do your wedding photos! To build a rapport with your photographer. Every couple is different, so engagement photos are great way to learn how I work while helping me get to know you both. I'll learn what poses work best and how you'd like to be photographed... are you serious, silly, affectionate or somewhere in the middle? You're engaged, celebrate it! This is the perfect occasion to enjoy your engagement before the rush of wedding planning sets in. It also means you'll be able to get a photo for your Save the Dates, guest book or wedding decorations... whatever your heart desires. To trial your plans. Many brides-to-be book hair, makeup and/or tanning trials to coincide with their engagement session - it's a chance to ensure your vision will come together in reality the way you want it to, but without the pressure. Plus, perfect excuse for date night! To use the ideas that didn't make the wedding. Often you'll have great ideas that we aren't quite able to incorporate into your wedding plans. You could use a location that's special to you both, do something you love together or get some photos with your pets if they won't make it on the big day – they're family too, right? If you’re wanting a couples or engagement session in Yeppoon, Rockhampton, or the surrounding Central Queensland region, I’d love to help you plan something that feels like you. Contact me to learn more and book your session!

From high school to here - Em & Tom married at Ambrym Estate in May. It felt only apt to have some cattle in their portraits, and made the perfect contrast with their soft, classic styling for the day! What a couple, what a day, what a setting - and an amazing group of vendors to bring it all together (see them all linked below). Vendors: Dusty Blooms CQ, Anna Dutton Couture, Makeup by Jacinta, Stewarts Rockhampton, Heather Sanders Celebrant, Studio Eight Beauty, BBQ Infusion Smoke and Spice, Light the Scene Videography, Tania Biles, DJ-Hap.R Entertainment, R & H Coldroom Hire, stationery by me.

Simone & Dan - together for 11 years and with 2 beautiful little boys, but these two had wedding day jitters like they were newly dating. Not to mention the fireworks, the flower nans, and the two beautiful families that came to celebrate them. P.S. Did I mention those dress sleeves?! Vendors: The Paddock Yeppoon - Capri Estate, POSY.yeppoon, Roaming Film House, Abbi Payne Artistry, Gladstone Bridal Boutique, Swarv Menswear, Floss' Hair Studio, A2Z Live Entertainment, Creative Cakes, Divine Moments, glowupbykristy signage by me.

If you’re searching for a relaxed couples photography session in Yeppoon or the Capricorn Coast, Kemp Beach is one of my favourite locations in Central Queensland. Vanessa and Josh’s beach session is a perfect example of how simple, natural moments can create meaningful images - even if you’ve never had professional photos taken before. This was their first session together, and like many couples, they arrived a little unsure of what to expect. With some gentle guidance, they were complete naturals and the results speak for themselves. If you’re considering a couples or engagement session in Yeppoon, Rockhampton, or the surrounding Central Queensland region, I’d love to help you plan something that feels like you. Contact me to learn more and book your session! Planning your couples photoshoot Planning your session doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. I’ll guide you through the process, from choosing a location that suits your style to selecting the best time of day. For beach sessions across Yeppoon and Central Queensland, late afternoon is usually ideal - offering a more relaxed atmosphere and soft sunset light. Once you’re booked, you’ll receive my welcome pack with helpful tips, including styling guidance, so you feel prepared and confident going into your session. What to wear for a beach couples session Choosing what to wear can make a big difference to how your photos feel. For beach sessions in Yeppoon and across Central Queensland, I recommend: Simple styling that feels comfortable and natural Outfits that complement each other without matching exactly Setting hairstyles with spray or gel to help them hold in coastal conditions Being mindful of frills or loose fabrics that may be affected by wind What to expect if you’ve never had photos taken before A common concern for couples is feeling awkward or unsure in front of the camera. The reality is that most couples I photograph feel exactly the same at the start. I'll guide you through simple prompts and movement to keep things relaxed and help you focus on each other. I photograph couples, proposals, engagements, and weddings across Rockhampton, Yeppoon, and Central Queensland with a guided approach. Please enquire via my contact page book your own session.

Nicci's parents were among my very first photography clients over 15 years ago, when both she and her older sister were just little girls. It hardly seems possible that Nicci is now approaching the end of her school years, while Sami has already graduated! Being invited to capture both girls' graduation portraits by Chris and Bron has been a truly special full-circle moment. I'm incredibly grateful for their support over the years and the opportunity to document such important milestones for their family. These images were captured at The Orchard, where the rich emerald tones of Nicci's gown created a beautiful contrast against her stunning curly red hair. The combination was simply striking and a joy to photograph. If you're considering graduation, family, or portrait photography in Yeppoon, Rockhampton, or elsewhere across Central Queensland, I'd love to help you create images that celebrate your own important milestones. Contact me to learn more and book your session!

I'm so excited to share that I've been named a Top 10 Wedding Photographer in Australia  at the Australian Wedding Industry Awards , following my win for the Capricorn Coast and Central Queensland region late last year. The national awards were announced in Sydney on 7 January, recognising excellence across the Australian wedding industry based on client feedback, professionalism and service standards. It’s difficult to compare work when no two weddings are the same, so to be acknowledged in this way is incredibly humbling. I'm deeply grateful to the people who have trusted me to document such an important part of their lives. The recognition coincides with me celebrating 15 years in business (um, how did that happen?!) recently, including more than a decade specialising in weddings. During that time, I've photographed weddings across Central Queensland and beyond, travelling everywhere from Longreach to Heron Island to capture celebrations for my couples. The awards also highlighted the depth of talent within Central Queensland’s wedding industry, with 10 other local placegetters and winners on the night - I’m proud to be part of such a strong community of local businesses! These included Light The Scene Videography, TMF Cake Designs, I Sew Alterations), Little List + Co., St Aubins Village, and The Old Station, Dunlop Catering, Beards and Banter MCs, Leanne Smith Marriage Celebrant and DJ Vee. If you are currently planning your wedding and looking for an experienced Central Queensland wedding photographer , I would love to hear from you. Get in touch to check your date and request package details for your special day.

The Hall wedding at The Orchard Yeppoon.  My first wedding back for the year and this day was so very special! I have photographed both Maddy and Dylan's families at their school formals over the years, and there is no greater honour than to be invited back again - especially to capture their wedding. Congratulations to these two high school sweethearts. Leanne Smith Marriage Celebrant, Danielle Ford Makeup Artist, Art by Joel Weddings, Gladstone Bridal Boutique, Stewarts Rockhampton, Sophie @ Dulcet Hairdressing, Cakes by Tegan CQ, Golden Roast Catering, stationery by me.

This session had the of sunset light, couple and location that every photographer dreams of! ✨️ Sophie & Tom chose to have their engagement session at home, and it was an honour to travel out to their property near Valkyrie. 💍 Near the end, we got a rainbow and a few drops of rain on us but I think it was worth it. If the results are anything to go by, I can't wait for their wedding in 2027! If you'd like to document your engagement and wedding with a photographer who loves honest, location-rich stories across Central Queensland and beyond, please contact me for more information.

When planning your wedding, the invitations are more than just paper. They're the first glimpse your guests receive of your wedding and set the tone for things to follow. Alongside wedding photography services, I'm also a qualified graphic designer offering wedding invitations, stationery and signs locally in Rockhampton, Central Queensland . This means you have the option to work with one person for your photography and printed pieces, keeping planning simple and your wedding style beautifully cohesive. Why wedding stationery matters Matching colours, type and design details across your invitations and signage is an easy way to bring your wedding styling together, even if it is understated. Your stationery sets the tone for your day - formal or relaxed, traditional or modern, classy or a little quirky - and it helps build excitement for what is to come. Because I design everything in-house, I can ensure your pieces all complement each other visually - creating the vision you're dreaming of and ensuring a seamless look from start to finish. Your personalised checklist Popular options include: Invitations and Save the Dates Details cards  with travel, accommodation and gift information Envelopes  with guest addresses printed to save you time and handwriting RSVP cards  or a digital RSVP option via text or email Finishing touches such as matching ribbons and belly bands Large signs  such as welcome signs and reception seating plans (with timber, acrylic and more options available) Small signs  including menus, in loving memory and day of information Thank you cards  for after your wedding Matching magnets , stickers and other paper goods if you wish Invitations and signs designed around you I create wedding stationery and signs based on your brief (or my ready-made designs ), taking into account your wedding style, colour palette and budget. If you have a clear vision, I can bring it to life - or if you're not quite sure where to start, I'm more than happy to help guide you through the process with a package tailored to suit your needs. When should I order? As a guide, here is a rough timeline of when to send out your stationery. Ideally, factor in another month to design/order and receive your items. Save the Dates - 6-12 months before your date, especially for weddings where guests may need to make work or travel arrangements. Invitations - 8-12 weeks before the day, or earlier if you are skipping Save the Dates. Thank you cards  - 3 months after your wedding, though it can be slightly earlier or later. How do I get a quote? As there are so many options for invites and signs, if you would like a quote please contact me with some details about your wedding such as: ​Your wedding date ; Some idea of the design style you are thinking (or some sample images with info about your colours, styling etc.); An estimated quantity (your guest list minus people who will share an invite); and Any other details e.g. that you'll need a matching information card/welcome sign or would like to use recycled paper stock. Then what happens? ​After you accept, pay your booking fee to start the design process ; You'll receive digital proofs to make sure you're happy, or request any tweaks; Once approved and paid , your order will take approx. 2-4 weeks to arrive ; and then You pick up your order from Rockhampton and get ready to celebrate! Do we have to use you for photography too? While many couples love the ease of having their wedding photography and stationery handled by one creative, there is absolutely no obligation to book both. You're very welcome to work with me just for wedding invitations, stationery and/or signage even if I'm not your photographer. Want to see more? If you would like to browse ready made designs for inspiration, you can view my pre-made wedding invitations in my Etsy store . Majority of my orders are custom designs and I can create your invites and signs based off the ideas/brief you provide. Whatever your plans, get in touch and we can create something that reflects you and your wedding day perfectly!