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Casting Guild Awards Night 2024

Janet Anderson on the red carpet for the CGA Awards Night, 2024
Janet Anderson on the red carpet for the CGA Awards Night, 2024

It was a Friday night at the ballroom of The Establishment and it was the awards night for the Casting Guild of Australia

What is the Casting Guild of Australia? Well in their own words….”The Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) was formed to bring recognition to Casting Directors across Australia who cast film, television, TV commercials, theatre, new media and reality. The CGA gives members a forum to share ideas and exchange information, provides unified standards for safe, inclusive and fair practices, engages in charitable activities, and highlights its members’ achievements.”

Each year, the Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) holds an awards ceremony to recognize outstanding individuals in various categories, akin to the Oscars for casting agents. This event is unique in the southern hemisphere, as it celebrates and acknowledges casting achievements across all mediums, including film, television, advertising, theatre, and online content.

Group image of some of the 10 young, up-and-coming, new talent.

On Friday night, attendees gathered in the ballroom to mingle and socialize, celebrating the achievements within the casting community. During the event, several awards were presented, and ten promising young talents were recognized as future stars likely to achieve national and international fame. The evening featured speeches and was expertly hosted by the erudite duo, Christian and Conner Van Vuuren.

Christian and Connor Van Vuuren, hosts for the CGA Awards night, 2024, on the red carpet.
Christian and Connor Van Vuuren, hosts for the CGA Awards night, 2024, on the red carpet.

There was also a special appearance and presentation by Sally Riley who is a notable filmmaker, writer, producer, was head of the indigenous branch of Screen Australia, then Head of the Indigenous Deparment at ABC, during which time she executive produced Mabo and Redfern Now….then in 2015 was appointed Head of Scripted Production at ABC, which commissioned series like Stateless, Mystery Road, Total Control, After Taste, Rosehaven, Wakefield, The Newsreader and many more. Sally is now Creative Consultant at SBS and NITV.

Cathy Riley (filmmaker, writer, producer) during her presentation at the CGA Awards Night, 2024
Cathy Riley (filmmaker, writer, producer) during her presentation at the CGA Awards Night, 2024

It was a great night, lots of good energy, with the red carpet photography going non-stop as the award winners and guests took advantage of getting photographed in front of the media wall. Lastly, congratulations to all the award winners…well done!

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Exhibition of beautiful glass by Dagmar Ackerman

The talented glass artist, Dagmar Ackerman is staging an exhibition at her Balmain studio complex. I often photograph Dagmar’s works for catalogue entries and promotion, so I am familiar with her seductive and colourful art works.

So head down to the artist studio complex, One plus 2 Artist Studios, and browse through Dagmar’s glass exhibition. The exhibtion extends across the weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) of the 22nd – 24th November, 2024.

Photo: Dagmar Ackerman during a recent photo session of her glass art works
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Sod-Turning at Minto

The team at Charter Hall and Prime Construcitons came together to mark the commencement of a new development at Minto. A short ceremony was organised where speeches were made and refreshments were consumed, as well as the symbolic turning of the first sod of ground.

The “sod-turning” is a symbolic re-enactment of the first bit of dirt that is dug up when work on the site is commenced. Three very shiny shovels were prepared for this construction ritual and then the appropriate individuals dig into the ground and dislodge the first bit of dirt (see photo).

A delicious spread was provided for breakfast on the day
Photo: commencement of construction on the site at Minto
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Test shoot in the studio

Every so often I get together with a team of friends in my studio to stage a fun photoshoot. This is an opportunity to take photographs of our model with no real commercial intention other than to experiment with hair, make-up, lighting and photography.

This particular weekend we photographed the beautiful model, Anya Gorbunova (Insta: @anyagorbunova89), who was a delight to work with. Normally I shoot with a fellow photographer colleague, Rob Srjararian, who not only photographs, but works as a graphic designer and has a background in hair styling….hence he decides the hair. He also operates as the artistic designer and is responsible for the styling of the shoot.

So the shoot team was a follows:

Hair/Styling/artistic direction – Robert Srjararian

Photography and lighting – John McRae

Make-up – Kerry Jane-Bailey

Styling and accessories – Joyce Conte

Model – Anya Gorbunova

It was a great Sunday morning and a very creative activity. I feel it is important to make time to work on photography that is not necessarily related to commercial goals…after all that’s why most of us went into photography in the first place….and photographing a beautiful model is a good start.

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Flat Earthers – world premiere at the Hayes Theatre

On now at the Hayes Theatre, Sydney, Flat Earthers, a brand new musical that is not just a kaleidoscope of colour, but a wacky adventure into (cyber) space and time.

Production shots of the dress rehearsal are an important tool for promotional purposes for any show. They are also reproduced in the program that is sold on performance nights at the theatre, creating a valuable document of the cast, lighting and staging of any particular production. In the case of “Flat Earthers: The Musical”, due to difficulties with my scheduling for the dress rehearsal, I was actually photographing the first public performance. This meant I was limited in my movements, since I normally have the freedom to move throughout the auditorium when photographing a performance. As a photographer, you want to vary the angles and you constantly search for striking lighting effects. That said, you usually work more at the front/centre of the stage, because the show is constructed that way … you want to mirror the audience viewpoint.

Book & Lyrics Jean Tong & Lou Wall
Songwriting Lou Wall & James Gales
Music Production James Gales
Director Declan Greene
Musical Director Jude Perl
Choreographer Fetu Taku
Set & Lighting Designer Brockman
Costume Designer Emma White
Sound Designer, Associate Video Designer & Animator Daniel Herten
AV Content Creator Xanthe Dobbie
Stage Manager Anastasia Mowen
Sound & AV Assistant TK Abioye
Sound Operator Em-Jay Dwyer
Intimacy Coordinator Chloë Dallimore
Musical Dramaturg Clemence Williams
Casting Director Rhys Velasquez
Assistant Set Designer Lochie Odgers
Assistant Stage Manager Grace Sackman
With Michelle Brasier, Lena Cruz, Manali Datar, Milo Hartill, Manon Guderson-Briggs, Mel O’Brien, Shannen Alyce Quan, Zarif

To book tickets or see more info: Click here

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Three sculptors – studio installation images

Patrizia Biondi
Patrizia Biondi

Independently I was approached by three different contemporary sculptors to document their recent work. Since this happened almost simultaneously, I thought this synergy shown by Patrizia Biondi, Nuha Saad and Charlotte Van Ewyk merited a special blog post.

Nuha Saad
Nuha Saad

Shooting sculpture is very different to shooting two-dimensional artworks. In regards to photographing paintings, once the lighting is set up, it remains the same for consecutive works. However, for sculpture, each piece requires slightly different and adjusted lighting and shadowing. The other important feature when photographing sculptures is that you often need to document the sense of shifting perspective. Each angle and point of view is different. Therefore I take numerous images of the same piece, to make sure I have covered most of the various viewpoints. I then edit down the shots to create the narrative I wish to capture.

Charlotte Van Ewyk
Charlotte Van Ewyk

I have represented a few shots of each of the three sculptors’ work here: featuring Nuha Saad, Patrizia Biondi and Charlotte Van Ewyk.

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The Hayes Theatre – launches 2025 season

Back in July, I hosted a photographic session at my Lilyfield studio for the different actors appearing in forthcoming productions for the Hayes Theatre in Sydney. We were shooting imagery for the promotion of the 2025 season.

Together we worked on images for a new production called “Pharlap”, an end-of-year special Xmas performance by Nancye Hayes in “Merry and Bright”, and finally the lead imagery for the  production of “Pirates of Penzance”, set for February 2025

These are the latest additions to the impressive list of musicals and stage-plays performed as part of the Hayes Theatre’s busy program. Once they have been fully rehearsed, I will write more about these productions in this blog.

For more information on each show, as well as performance dates and times, click here:

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Images of my photo-installation at the Power Up Festival at White Bay Power Station

I went to the former White Bay Power Station at the weekend to take a series of installation images of my work, on display as part of the “Power Up Festival” in Rozelle. (See previous blog post for more info). There has been a really good response to my photographs in the exhibition, which were visible through specially constructed “peep-holes” to create a surreal, hidden, slightly subversive effect. My photographs themselves capture scenes shot in the former psychiatric ward and hospital in Rozelle.

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POWER UP – exhibition and festival at the White Bay Power Station, Rozelle

This weekend, I will be exhibiting several of my photographs at the White Bay Power Station in Balmain (September 20, 21 & 22, 2024), as part of the Power Up Festival. Diverse Sydney artists are showing their recent work, along with a festival of music and food.

My photographic portraits of a solitary figure in a post-industrial space are being featured in a new installation flanked by abandoned machinery. It will be a great event with more that 250 artists and a line-up of artisans, food vendors and craft brewers. Wander through the Pump House and Boiler House to see the Power Up Stage ignite with live music and captivating performances. It is a wonderful opportunity to visit this iconic building near the Anzac Bridge.  Oh … the best bit, it’s free! 

Opening Hours:

Friday 20 September: 10am to 9.30pm

Saturday 21 September: 10am to 9.30pm

Sunday 22 September: 10am to 6pm

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New logistics facility at Prestons

A new logistics facility opened for inspection in Prestons, a suburb south-west of the Sydney CBD. I was commissioned to photograph the completed stages of the building, which has been constructed by Hansen Yuncken. I also covered an event at the same site, hosted by the developer, 151 Properties.

What is particularly impressive about this structure is the huge awning which stretches over the loading bays, spanning both warehouses. This is one of the largest dual-purpose awnings I have recently seen.

151 Properties held a presentation for agents who work in this industry, to show them around and to publicize that a new, state-of-the-art logistics facility was available for rent. Obviously by demonstrating innovation and by fielding potential customers for 151 Properties, it shows how layered the construction industry can be when many stakeholders are involved … from the lofty levels of financing and investment, to the actual build, project management and deployment. At any step of the way, you can be sure there are a number of people and interests involved.

The early morning presentation proceeded well. There were several speeches and then visitors were taken on tours of the facility. However, alongside the impressive structure itself, the best part for me was the hamburger stand and the accompanying coffee stand … breakfast was a welcome treat.

Warehouse at Prestons, Sydney

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Tripping the light fantastic


Although I rarely post images of myself, a friend of mine, Connor, managed to snap this shot of me and my ballroom dancing partner, Janelle, at a recent grading event in Cronulla, Sydney.  I thought the image was worthy of a post….so here it is. Me pictured on the dance floor during our foxtrot routine.

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Composer and music educator, Margaret Brandman, updates her portrait

Margaret Brandman is an accomplished pianist, composer, accredited piano teacher, arranger and music educator who has performed and lectured in Australia and abroad. Margaret has composed music for voice and a variety of instrumental combinations. Her publications incorporate a complete range of music education materials including Accent on Music (High School text) and the Contemporary Piano Method.

Margaret came to my studio to update the imagery she requires for promotional purposes, including new headshots. 

To remain current, these images need to be regularly re-photographed, so that public presence in the media remains credible. Margaret is a lovely, talented woman and we spent a great moment together.

By the way, check out her music…it’s on youtube at this link: Margaret’s Music

To listen to a recent interview with Margaret (9th October, 2024 on 89.7 FM)…..click on this link: She speaks about half an hour into the program

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Prinnie Stevens in studio

1st look….where we started.

It is always a pleasure to photograph Australian singer and performer Prinnie Stevens and the recent shoot at my studio was no exception.

We captured three different looks over the space of one morning. Prinnie required some updated imagery for promotional purposes. As is always the case, Prinnie presented herself with total professionalism, which makes my job as a photographer far less complicated.

We started with a relaxed image, for a more casual feel. Prinnie chose to have her hair out, the makeup was natural and simple. We shot the image on a strong, peeled-back, black background.

The next shot was more colourful. Prinnie was wearing a lilac knit jumper and I chose to light her differently, using a more high-key, shadowless, front light, together with a purple gel on the background to mirror the colour of her jumper. I also added a warmer side light to give this image extra highlights in her hair.

For the final look, I changed the lighting again. This time I wanted to reflect a more sophisticated look. Prinnie slicked back her hair and applied a tad more makeup, including a different lip colour. I chose a “butterfly”-type lighting approach, with a couple of side lights added for effect. I gelled the side lights with a quarter blue gel to give a bluer tone on the sides of her face.

I enjoyed meeting up with Prinnie and working with her again to create a series of new imagery. I believe she was happy with the results and I look forward to our next session.

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Warehouses and the colours of the Australian landscape

The zone around Eastern Creek and beyond has become the “home of the warehouse” … a broad stretch of land covered with severely functional, industrial buildings, reminding us of our need to supply, store and coordinate the comings and goings of products for the daily requirements of our urban populations.

I imagine that most people are unaware of the enormous scale of this area of infrastructure, perched on the out-skirts of Sydney. It’s not really a destination …”let’s take the kids to see the warehouses at Eastern Creek”. If you live in residential enclaves in the vicinity, you may only see the warehouses in passing. But most inner-city, latte-sipping urbanites have no idea of the alternate “cities of large boxes” that inhabit the periphery of our cities.

This warehouse complex was built by Prime Constructions for ISPT, the developer, by whom I was commissioned to make these images. I like this type of shoot, since it allows me time to walk around these enormous structures, completely alone in the industrial landscape, capturing the sharp angles of these dislocated icons as the sun starts setting. I usually keep shooting into the twilight, for about half an hour once the sun has gone down. I then pack up my equipment, hop in my car and drive 40kms back towards the inner city.

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Fashion and jewellery collaboration in Melbourne

Circa AD, a personal jeweller based in Melbourne teamed up with Perri Cutten, the well-known, Melbourne-based fashion label to work together on creating a new campaign.

I flew down to Victoria to shoot Adrian Dickens’ fabulous jewellery for Circa AD, worn by the model Sharon, stylishly dressed in Perri Cutten outfits.  On location in the inner Melbourne suburb of Windsor, we produced imagery with a warm intimacy and fashionable flair. More photographs from this shoot to follow in a later post.

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Elevating the impact of your stories: introducing Drone Photography & Video!

I’m thrilled to share an exciting update from my studio, set to elevate your visual storytelling to new heights.

Introducing Drone Photography & Video Services

Together with the expertise provided by my “in-flight” technical colleagues, I’m taking to the skies to offer you the impact of breathtaking aerial shots and videos, adding a striking perspective to your marketing potential. Whether you’re looking to captivate your audience with aerial views as part of your company’s promotional content, bring a new dimension to customer stories, or add an unforgettable touch to your special events like weddings or performances, we’ve got you covered.

Why drone photography

– Unique perspectives: Capture angles and vistas which can’t be achieved through traditional photography.

– Engaging content: Elevate your social media and marketing clout with captivating aerial footage and stand-out imagery.

– Dynamic versatility: Perfect for real estate showcases, plotting construction progress, documenting event highlights, and scenic backdrops for many occasions.

Stay tuned for our portfolio update, where we’ll be showcasing some of our spectacular drone captures.

If you are interested in adding a sky-high perspective to your next project or event, let’s chat about how we can integrate drone photography and video into your vision.

Elevate your story with John McRae Photography.

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The Hayes Theatre team back in my studio for a promotional shoot

It was a cold winter morning in Sydney but this didn’t stop the team from The Hayes Theatre from coming to my Lilyfield studio for a promotional shoot to capture images for their ever-expanding program of productions and shows. This included portraits of Nancye Hayes, Jay Laga’aia and Aaron Tsindos, ably assisted by Ashleigh Grace (hair and make-up), Brendan de la Hay (wardrobe/stylist), as well as producer, Rica Canillas, artistic directors Richard Carroll and Victoria Falconer. The proceedings were documented by the content creator, Blythe Ashton.


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Sydney AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2024

I was recently asked to photograph the events of the Sydney AIDS Candlelight Memorial by Positive Life NSW.

This emotional event provides an opportunity for members of the community to come together to reflect on and remember all those who have passed away from HIV/AIDS.

It was a moving experience to be a part of this solemn moment where people together remember and mark the passing of friends, partners, family and colleagues, often from the ravages of the early years of the AIDS epidemic. It reminded me about the importance of such rituals in our fast-paced society, where we take a moment out of our busy lives to reflect on such matters

After people arrived at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst, everyone gathered in the main auditorium to hear speakers including Yvonne Weldon, Stephen Lunny and Lyle Chan. Community members read the names of people who had passed, from a long, sad list. The proceedings finished with a rousing song performed by Mary Kiani, before attendees reminisced with each other over refreshments at the front-of-house.

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United For Care – new independent living facility opens in Merrylands

It was a festive morning at the grand opening of the newly completed Merrylands facility of United For Care, in partnership with Vertika to provide supported independent living (SIL).

United For Care is an organisation that provides many kinds of support and assistance within the disability sector. It has partnered with Vertika, a company specialised in the development of vertical integrated specialist accommodation within the same sector

Nick Jones (video) and I (still photographs) covered the event, and recorded many of the morning’s activities. We even managed to include a number of voice-to-camera interviews with selected participants.

We toured the newly created apartments, hearing from some of the executive team as well as listening to a speech from Jacob, the very first resident of the complex. DJ Dylan from Wollongong was spinning on the turn-table – not to mention the amazing coffee cart out the front of the building with a wonderful array of cup-cakes. There was also a heart-felt “welcome to country” performed on the upper terrace. 

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New fragrances – ESNC opens new store in Bankstown

I’ve long had an interest in perfumes. I remember arriving in Paris after I first started traveling in my early 20’s and loving to try all the various fragrances at the large Parisian department stores. Through the years, I have sampled many … and subsequently I’ve spent heaps on purchasing these very expensive bottles of, essentially, scented water.

While my interest in perfume has continued, I look for new fragrances and in particular alternatives to the costly luxury brands. So I responded with great interest when I was approached to create imagery for ESNC, a new in-store boutique at the Bankstown Shopping Centre, for a brand which sells perfumes designed and manufactured in Turkey. 

I set out to take images of the newly-built retail installation. The counter/shop has been built by Alishan Yucel from Feature Point Constructions. I have shot projects before for Ali in Melbourne (see previous post here). Ali completes beautiful work … his finishes in particular are amazing. Based in Melbourne, he created modular pieces of the ESNC counter at his workshop. He then transported the units to Sydney, to be assembled on site at Bankstown.

I spent time with Sam (owner of ESNC), his wife and the sales crew during one Saturday morning, and captured both stills and video of some of their interaction with the general public. I’ve posted some of the results as part of this post and the images speak for themselves…..dropping in to the ESNC store in Bankstown will definitely be a lot of fun.