MasterChef Australia Launch Party 2017

When I first launched Curated Life Studio as a business, I never anticipated that I would be the head photographer for MasterChef Australia, in conjunction with 97.3 Radio Station & Channel 10.
I’m still pinching myself! 

“Do you have your camera?” “Yes.” “What about your battery grip?” “Mmhmm.” “Have you charged all your batteries?” “Yes…” “How many Batteries for the flash will we need?” “I’m not sure… 12 should be enough, no?

I was wearing an elegant skirt, a simple black blouse and was packing my bags for my shoot. My partner, on the other hand, was biting his lip in anxiety. He was just as nervous as I was. Not because I had employed him as my second shooter,  but because he knew how much this meant to me. 

Once arriving on location, we received a tour of the restaurant, a brief of the evening and then the shooting began.

Branding, check.
Gifts, check.
Red Carpet, check.
Media Wall, check.
Food, check. 
Speeches, check.  

It was 5 hours shooting, followed by overnight editing. The images had to be delivered by 8:30 a.m the following morning, all 150 of them.

It was as exhausting as it was rewarding. That evening I learnt so much about how I work as a photographer. 

Preparation is important 

Before any photo shoot, I go through my check list the night before to ensure I am 150% prepared. I print my photography brief from the client, I clean my lenses, clear my SD card, charge my batteries, pack my equipment and coordinating any travel arrangements. Generally, I also google the venue to anticipate the available light and the weather conditions of the day.  

New Equipment 

If I’m working with new equipment, I always acquaint myself with how to use it before the shoot. Afterall, the client’s paying time is not the opportunity to learn how to use new gear. 

If I am using a new lens, I always take it out for a day before to become more familiar with it. 

Self Care 

During a photo shoot, I don’t always have the opportunity to have a break or to eat something. Regardless of the client (or the duration of a shoot) I always carry around a muesli bar and ensure I’m well hydrated. 

Carrying a 3+ kilos camera for 5 hours straight feels like a century if you’re dehydrated. 

Break (some) rules

My brief during the evening was to photograph the meals as they were delivered to the Judges. This was a huge challenge. The dimly lit dining room made the conditions similar to shooting in a closet. My shutter speed was at its limit, and my ISO was between 6,400 and 12,800. There was no way these images would turn out looking appetising. 

To take gorgeous pictures of the dishes, I took the photographs in the kitchen where there were better lighting conditions before they were delivered to the judges and guests. 

Media Wall / Celebrities 

The media wall offers the opportunity for guests to meet and interact with their idol celebrities. If the guests and the celebrity are open, I make it a fun and authentic moment by getting them to try unique poses. 

As a photographer, you may have taken a few great images but it’s worth taking an extra three or four. It is a rare and special opportunity for the guests to have their images taken with their idol. Those additional images take a minute, and it counts towards the experience.

Thank you 

I want to extend a huge thank you to my dear friend Lou. Without you this incredible opportunity with MasterChef Australia would never have been possible. 

I want to say another thank you to my fiancée. I love you completely, I couldn’t imagine my life without you and I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for your unconditional support! x 

What did you think of the shoot?  I would love to hear in the comments below! 🙂 

Kylie - Curated Life Studio

Hey There, I’m Kylie. My passion is plant-based recipes and I want to help you create something gorgeous!

I believe in taking a slow approach to food – to eat locally, seasonally and consciously.

When I’m not taking photos, you can find me wandering the coastal paths of South-East Australia.