By Danielle Davey
Not only is it Valentine’s Day this month, February also heralds the Chinese Year of the Horse. Whether you’re crazy in love or horse-crazy, now is the perfect time to celebrate those special connections with your partner or your trusty steed with a gorgeous photograph you’ll treasure for ever.
Mornington Peninsula photographer Paige Lee specialises in equine photography and portraits of couples and families. Growing up on a rural property in Langwarrin, her childhood was spent surrounded by horses; she has a natural affinity with the majestic animals. It’s a quality that brings strength to her role, enabling her to coax horses into position for the perfect shot.
Described as “casual and country” in style, Paige’s photoshoot portfolio includes a collection of dreamy images of clients dressed as cowgirls wearing Stetson hats and boots. She has a small selection of props and wardrobe items available – blankets, hats and dresses – but always encourages clients to wear what makes them feel comfortable. For those without a horse, she offers the opportunity to use a private acreage and horses in Langwarrin for their session.
Naturally softly spoken, Paige says she becomes a different person when she enters photographer mode. Friends have observed she becomes more vocal and self-assured when directing a shoot. She credits the change to having confidence in her skill and feeling in her element.
She has been honing her craft since her early 20s, specialising in the bond between pets and their owners. Outside work, she has fun taking family snaps of her young nephew and nieces. It’s said you should never work with children or animals, but Paige shines with both.
Contrary to her usual method of choreographing a shoot, she last year found herself lying low for a client’s surprise marriage proposal. The Perth man, quietly confident his fiancee would accept, enlisted Paige to photograph the happy event on the rocks of Canadian Bay Beach at Mount Eliza. The couple now have a cherished image of the moment she said yes.
Paige has a gift for putting clients at ease. Even those who are generally averse to having their photo taken relax under Paige’s guidance. “Your beautiful, calm and relaxed nature made us feel so comfortable and at ease, which enabled so many natural unposed photos – exactly what we wanted,” enthused a couple whose wedding she photographed. “You listened, were so responsive with your communication and went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect.” These same characteristics make her a popular photographer for maternity and newborn photo sessions too.
Apparently, the Year of the Horse is the year to embark on adventure, pursue a long-held dream, and express your creativity. You can easily tick all these boxes at once by appointing Paige to create a stunning image of yourself and your loved ones – pets included – marking special occasions or simply celebrating the joy of life. To book a session or view Paige’s portfolio, visit paigeleephotography.com.au or Insta @paigeleephotography
