Home

Clients’ joy inspires winning photograph

Jacinta CantatoreHarvey-Waroona Reporter
Kelsie Clark with the portrait of her daughter, Piper, which won the People's Choice Award.
Camera IconKelsie Clark with the portrait of her daughter, Piper, which won the People's Choice Award. Credit: Jacinta Cantatore

Cookernup photographer Kelsie Clark has won the People’s Choice Award at a Statewide photography competition at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre.

Mrs Clark won the award at the Mandurah Portrait and Landscape Prize, battling against 50 other photographers from around the State under the scrutiny of four expert judges.

The portrait of her eight-year-old daughter Piper, taken at Stirling Cottage in Harvey and titled Garden Beauty, received the most votes from visitors to the exhibition.

Mrs Clark also came third in the Smartphone photography category for her Nature’s Window shot taken in Kalbarri.

“There are so many talented photographers in our State so it was an honour to be amongst them,” she said.

“I was so excited to win because it was the people’s choice and these people are my clients.”

After years of enjoying photography as a hobby, Mrs Clark started her own photography business, specialising in styled portraits.

Kelsie Clark with the portrait of her daughter, Piper, which won the People's Choice Award.
Camera IconKelsie Clark with the portrait of her daughter, Piper, which won the People's Choice Award. Credit: supplied.

She said there were pros and cons to running a business from home, giving her flexible hours to have quality time with her three children, but also meaning some 2am editing sessions to keep up with the work flow.

Mrs Clark said winning the prize felt like validation that the tough days were worth it.

“It is so rewarding to see the hard work I’ve done is starting to pay off,” she said.

“I’ve been lucky enough to learn from some of the world’s leading family and newborn photographers, which has been a huge help in learning new techniques and finding my own style.

“I have met the most wonderful people through my business and love capturing special memories for them to enjoy for years to come.”

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails