About

John McRae is a Sydney-based commercial photographer with an impressive 30 year track record of success in the industry. Over the course of his career, he has built a solid reputation for delivering exceptional photography across a wide range of commercial sectors, including portraiture, architecture, theatre, fashion and general commercial photography. His work has attracted international recognition, with clients such as Elle Magazine, Byford International, and Jean-Luc Amsler Designs trusting him to capture their brands with precision and artistry.

John has mastered the art of creating compelling visual narratives that align perfectly with commercial objectives. His expertise spans fashion, corporate imagery, and high-end product photography, always ensuring that the client’s vision is brought to life with flawless execution. His background in fine art enhances his ability to infuse each project with a high aesthetic standard, maintaining impeccable composition and attention to detail.

John’s commercial portfolio continues to grow, with his work featured in prominent global publications and advertising campaigns. His keen eye for composition, combined with an innate understanding of brand messaging, has made him a trusted partner for brands seeking to make a lasting impression in the marketplace.

John’s exploration of fine art photography has seen his personal projects being exhibited in galleries throughout the nation, as well as internationally in galleries in New York, Paris, Berlin and Rome.  He is represented in Rome by the eminent photographic gallery, Il Ponte Contemporanea.  His work is regularly chosen for inclusion in some of Australia’s most prestigious photographic awards, including the National Portrait Prize, Canberra, The Olive Cotton Award and Sydney Life – Art and About. In 2012, John was a selected finalist in the Moran Contemporary Portrait Prize, a finalist in the Josephine Ulrick & Win Schubert Photography Award, a finalist in the coveted Blake Prize and his work, Portrait of Margaret Olley in her Paddington Studio was voted the People’s Choice winner in the 2012 National Portrait Prize, National Portrait Gallery, Canberra.  This work was later purchased by the Tweed Regional Art Gallery as part of the permanent collection of the Margaret Olley Art Centre.  In 2013, he was selected as a finalist in the “Head On” Portrait Prize at the NSW State Library and was judged the 2013 winner of the popular ” Shoot The Chef” competition, organised by Fairfax Media as part of the Good Food Month.  For a comprehensive list of exhibitions and inclusions in awards see the link Exhibition History.

John works from his Sydney studio, based in Lilyfield. He invites all photographic enquiries and is happy to discuss your photographic needs. Feel free to contact him, below.

Mobile:  0419 619 161

email: john@johnmcrae.com

Studio: 483 Balmain Road, Lilyfield NSW 2040

Clients include: