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January 2025 – John McRae Photography & Studio

Month: January 2025

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New EV Training Centre at TAFE, Wetherill Park

I recently visited TAFE in Wetherill Park to photograph for Richard Crookes Interiors. RCCI has just completed the refurbishment of an existing building on the college campus.

This project involves the development of a state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) training centre on the TAFE campus. This initiative is significant as it now provides a dedicated training facility for students at Wetherill Park, as one of the latest additions in the nation. The centre will focus on all aspects of electric vehicle maintenance and repairs. As the number of electric vehicles on the road continues to rise, this specialized area of education and maintenance becomes increasingly important.

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UFC Redfern – Cope Street Opening

United for Care is an independent living provider, working in partnership with Vertika, to make appealing accommodation available for their clients

On the morning of October 30, 2024 (a date I particularly remember because it was also my birthday), people gathered at the newly completed Redfern facility to celebrate its grand opening.

A diverse group of attendees came together to listen to speeches, participate in a traditional smoking ceremony, mingle, and enjoy the refreshments offered, which included a much-appreciated coffee barista service

The traditional smoking ceremony is part of an ancient Indigenous practice that involves the burning of native plants to create smoke. This smoke is believed to have cleansing properties and is used to purify the space and those people present. During the ceremony, participants often share stories, songs and rituals, fostering a sense of community and connection to the land and ancestors. The specific plants used can vary by region, but commonly they include eucalyptus, sage and other native herbs.

Guests in Sydney were warmly welcomed to the Cope Street inauguration and encouraged to explore the state-of-the-art accommodation facility, which is located within walking distance to the transport services and shops along Redfern’s main street.

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Roberts & Co – “topping out” at Wentworth Point

I am frequently asked to photograph “topping out” events for various stakeholders in the construction industry. On this occasion, I was invited to document the “topping out” of an educational facility at Wentworth Point in western Sydney, during mid-construction.

You might wonder, what is a “topping out”? According to Wikipedia, it is a practice which seems to have originated in ancient Scandinavia as a religious rite, where a tree was placed atop a new building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits displaced during construction. The tree also served a practical purpose: when the pine needles fell to the ground, it signaled to the builders that their timber frame had cured or dried.

Today, a “topping out” event is usually organized by the builder, who invites those partners and associates involved with the project to a ceremony to mark the completion of the final level in construction, signifying that the structure is finished.

At the event I covered for Roberts & Co., a large potted tree was hoisted by crane onto the roof of the building. Speeches were made and group photos were taken. I learned that the tree does not remain on the roof; after the event, it is taken back down by crane and planted somewhere nearby.

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Bob is Back!

It had been a while since Bob Downe graced my studio with his presence, but he has returned for an exhilarating update of his imagery. Thankfully, Mark Trevorrow was on hand to expertly navigate us through the nuances of a “Bob Shoot”.

Having had the privilege to photograph Bob for many years, it’s astonishing to realize that his career has spanned an impressive four decades. This year, 2025, marks Bob’s 40th anniversary in the entertainment industry. To countless fans and in my own eyes – being a visual person – Bob remains as ageless as ever. While the heavy “pancake” makeup and cheesy smile plays a role in his timeless appearance, I truly believe that his durability comes down to his commitment to clean living. And his crisp safari suits.

Working with Bob is a delight; he embodies professionalism. I can trust that I will capture a series of original shots without hassle, since Bob knows how to work a camera with ease. Beyond this talent, he’s genuinely a wonderful person to be around. His upbeat attitude, infectious laugh and zest for life will transform any photo shoot into a joyful experience.

Bob readies himself for the shoot
The ever watchful Mark Trevorrow adds last minute touches to Bob’s wig

As we celebrate Bob’s remarkable journey, I wish him a cheerful and successful 2025. I encourage everyone to book tickets for one of the venues where he will be performing this year, from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to Perth, Newcastle and Brunswick Heads. Don’t miss out on the entertainment extravaganza that awaits! Information on performances can be found at this link: BobDowne40thAnniversary

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Taking a rooftop group image of 50

NAPWHA members gathered together in late 2024 for their annual conference, held in Surry Hills, Sydney.

To mark the occasion and for upcoming communication purposes, I was asked to take a group portrait. I always enjoy the challenges of photographing larger groups and look forward to seeing the results. 

Finding an ample space can be an obvious obstacle. Fortunately we had access to a large balcony with an impressive view of the CBD.

I always check the lighting before assembling people for a group portrait. I usually take test-snaps of myself posed in various positions in the chosen setting – this creates a silly opportunity to create duplicate images of myself … and this was no exception.

I look forward to working with NAPWHA (National Association of People with HIV Australia) again on a future project. And do not hesitate to get in touch should you require photography of team members or groups.