Sharpfocuspics
Sharpfocuspics – Professional Photographer in Australia with Stephen Thomas
Welcome to the official website of Stephen J. Thomas, a professional photographer based on the Tweed Coast, in Northern New South Wales, Australia.
Specialising in fashion photography, creative portraits, sports photography, and professional headshots, Stephen offers custom photo sessions both outdoors and in his private studio, across Australia and internationally.
Fashion, Beauty & Portrait Photography – Natural and Elegant Style
With a background in advertising, art direction, and styling, Stephen delivers high-end fashion shoots with a focus on natural light, dynamic backgrounds, and emotional storytelling. His approach blends elegance, creativity, and professionalism, with a strong eye for detail and natural beauty.
Here at Sharpfocuspics, I specialise in fashion photography, beauty portraits, and creative editorial sessions that highlight your individuality with a natural and refined aesthetic. Whether you’re a model, a brand, or simply someone looking to express yourself through powerful visuals, I create photographs that feel authentic, artistic, and impactful.
My goal is to help you look and feel your best in front of the camera without the need for heavy editing or over-styling. I focus on using natural light, subtle styling, and intentional composition to craft images that are timeless and expressive.
Fashion, Portrait photographer in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne and worldwide
I offer fashion photography sessions tailored for:
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Models and influencers building or updating their portfolios
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Clothing and accessory brands launching new collections
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Editorial campaigns for magazines, lookbooks, or social media
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Boutique designers and emerging creatives looking for visual storytelling
Whether we're shooting in an urban street setting, a studio environment, or a coastal backdrop, I collaborate with you to bring your creative vision to life. From runway-inspired looks to minimalist style, I focus on capturing the details that define your brand or personal aesthetic.
Beauty Photography for male and female models – Radiant, Refined, and Real
My beauty photography is all about highlighting the natural features, skin texture, and personality of the subject. I work closely with makeup artists, hairstylists, and models to create images that look clean, elegant, and emotionally rich.
Ideal for:
Makeup artists building a visual portfolio
Skincare and beauty brands looking for editorial-style product imagery
Hair stylists and salons showcasing their artistry
Personal branding sessions with a strong, polished visual identity
I favour a light makeup approach and natural lighting setups to ensure each shot feels effortless yet powerful perfect for both commercial and artistic use.
Creative Portraits – Honest, Artistic, and Personal
Portraits are at the heart of what I do. Let the lens be the window to the soul!
I create expressive, natural portraits for:
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Artists, entrepreneurs, performers, and creatives
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People wanting to mark a personal milestone
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Clients exploring their identity, style, or confidence
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Personal branding and social media content
You don’t need to be a model to experience a portrait session. My approach is friendly, guided, and relaxed, designed to help you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera. Whether it’s in the studio, out in a nature setting, or on location, I aim to capture the real you with honesty and elegance.
A Signature Style Rooted in Simplicity and Strength
What sets my work apart is my dedication to creating visually striking yet understated imagery.
I do not rely on flashy effects or filters, just the ideal light, strong composition, and good connection with the subject.
Many of my clients come to me because they want portraits that feel:
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Authentic, not over-posed
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Elegant but not overly polished.
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Minimal but still full of emotion.
This clean, editorial style is ideal for clients who value quality, intention, and timelessness in their visuals, whether they’re launching a brand or just celebrating themselves.
Artistic portraits (individual, couple, or themed)
At Sharpfocuspics, I specialize in creating artistic portraits that capture the true essence of my clients.
Whether you're looking for a classic individual portrait, a couple's session, or something more creative and themed, I work with you to craft a shoot that reflects your unique personality and style.
Individual Portraits for women and men
I believe a portrait should tell a story your story. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply looking to capture a moment in time, I offer personalized sessions designed to bring out the authenticity and emotion in every shot.
My approach is focused on using natural light, carefully chosen locations, and posing techniques that highlight your best features.
Whether it’s a professional headshot, an artistic fashion portrait, or just a personal session, I’ll ensure your photos are not just images, but works of art that reflects who you are.
Couple Portraits
For couples, I create intimate and emotional photographs that capture the connection and chemistry between you.
Whether it’s for an engagement shoot, pregnancy, anniversary, or simply a beautiful memory together, I focus on bringing out the natural bond between partners. We can choose a location that reflects your relationship, from an urban setting to the beach or countryside. I’ll guide you through every step to make the experience comfortable and enjoyable.
My aim is to create portraits that are not only visually stunning but also meaningful, with every photograph telling the story of your relationship.
Themed Portraits
If you're looking for something more creative or themed, I can work with you to design a concept that’s completely unique. From fashion-inspired looks to fantasy themes, I love to experiment with different styles, lighting, and props to create something that stands out. Whether it's a styled shoot or a special event, I’ll help bring your vision to life, ensuring the final images are truly one-of-a-kind.
No matter the theme, I work closely with you to make sure every detail is in place, from wardrobe choices to location scouting, to ensure the shoot captures the atmosphere and mood you're aiming for.
Lingerie, Swimwear & Activewear Photography – Bold, Confident, and Beautiful
Lingerie, Swimwear & Activewear Photography Bold, Confident, and Beautiful.
At Sharpfocuspics, I am experienced in lingerie photography, swimwear photography, and activewear photography that celebrates confidence, empowerment, and body positivity.
Whether you're a model, fitness influencer, or a brand looking to promote your collection, I create bold, stylish images that elevate your personal or commercial vision.
With many years of experience working in the magazine and fashion industry, I know how to combine flattering lighting, strong composition, and the perfect location styling to bring out the very best in every look.
Lingerie Photography – Elegant and Empowering
My lingerie photo sessions are designed to be elegant, tasteful, and empowering. Whether you're looking to build a model portfolio, create content for your personal brand, or launch a new lingerie collection, I offer a supportive and professional environment where you can feel confident and in control.
I focus on:
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Body-positive posing that flatters your natural form
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Soft natural light or dramatic shadows for mood and tone
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Carefully selected indoor or outdoor locations to match your vision
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Produce images in both colour or black & white to suit the style
From boudoir-style shoots to editorial lingerie campaigns, my aim is to make you feel strong, insure the brand stands out, make you look beautiful, and proud of your images.
Swimwear Photography – Beach, Poolside & Editorial Looks
Living on the Tweed Coast in Northern NSW, I have access to some of Australia's most stunning beach locations - ideal for professional swimwear photoshoots.
I shoot everything from bikini fashion editorials to performance swimwear brand features, using a combination of natural light, water reflection, and movement to capture that perfect summer energy.
I’ve worked with swimwear designers, emerging models, and fitness brands to produce photos that feel authentic, fresh, and highly marketable.
My swimwear photography focuses on:
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Dynamic beach poses
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Natural, golden-hour lighting
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Clean, vibrant compositions ideal for social media and print
Swimwear Brand Campaigns & Lookbooks
If you're launching a swimwear brand or updating your next seasonal collection, I’ll work with you to produce high-quality visual content tailored to your brand’s identity. From swimsuit product shots to editorial campaign imagery, I can help you develop a visual language that sells not just a product, but a lifestyle.
Why brands choose Sharpfocuspics:
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Experience in fashion photography, styling, and editorial direction
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Eye for composition, color palettes, and brand identity
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Access to stunning, diverse outdoor locations perfect for lookbooks or launches
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A flexible and collaborative process - your creative vision matters
Activewear Photography – Powerful, Athletic, and Authentic
At Sharpfocuspics, I offer high-quality activewear photography designed to highlight strength, movement, and confidence.
Whether you're a fitness brand, Yoga or Pilates instructor, personal trainer, or athlete, I’ll help you showcase your activewear designs or personal image with bold, energetic visuals that capture your unique story.
With a background in both sports photography and fashion styling, I understand how to shoot the dynamic energy of fitness in a way that feels professional, inspiring, and on-brand.
If you’re launching a new activewear line or updating your next season’s visuals, I work with you to create impactful editorial-style and e-commerce-ready images. From gym gear, athleisurewear, to performance sportswear, I shoot with an emphasis on form, function, and fashion.
My commercial activewear photography includes:
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Full and close-up shots of fabric fit, detail, and design
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Models in motion, showcasing the flexibility, durability, and style of the product
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Clean, vibrant, and high-contrast edits that pop on social media, websites, and lookbooks
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Styled fitness sets, outdoor shoots, or gym locations to match your brand’s tone
Personal Fitness & Athlete Photography
f you're a personal trainer, yoga teacher, dancer, or professional athlete, I create personal branding sessions that highlight your strength, grace, and discipline. Whether you need content for your website, Instagram, or promotional materials, I’ll work with you to ensure the final results speak directly to your audience.
I focus on:
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Natural movement, action shots, and muscle definition
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Creative compositions that emphasize focus, determination, and power
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Locations that reflect your personal aesthetic – beach, gym, track, or urban environment
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Expert posing guidance to ensure each shot looks effortless and powerful
Lingerie, Swimwear & Activewear Photography Across the East Coast of Australia and Beyond
At SharpFocusPics, I specialise in creating high-quality, fashion-forward photography for lingerie, swimwear, and activewear highlighting individuality, confidence, and motion in every frame.
While I’m based on the stunning Tweed Coast of Northern NSW, I regularly shoot on location in some of the most iconic and visually striking spots along Australia’s East Coast. From the laid-back bohemian energy of Byron Bay, to the sun-drenched beaches of Burleigh Heads and the vibrant cityscapes of Brisbane, each location brings its own unique charm and atmosphere to your shoot.
Whether we’re capturing early morning light on the Gold Coast, taking editorial shots along the boardwalks of Coolangatta, or planning a natural light fitness shoot in the scenic parks of the Sunshine Coast, I tailor every session to match your style and vision.
Other popular destinations I frequently shoot in include:
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The coastal beauty of Lennox Head
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The sleek urban vibe of Surfers Paradise
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The tranquil seaside charm of Kingscliff
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The relaxed tropical feel of Noosa
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The famous beaches of Sydney
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And many other East Coast gems
This wide regional coverage allows me to work with clients from a variety of backgrounds models, brands, influencers, athletes, and creatives who are looking for stunning visual content that aligns with their identity.
I work in some of the most picturesque coastal locations in Australia, ideal for bikini editorials, swimwear collections, or lifestyle beach shoots. Whether we're capturing sunset light in Byron Bay, or surfside energy on the Gold Coast, I’ll make sure your images reflect the vibrant, relaxed, and confident essence of coastal Australia.
Available Across Australia & Worldwide
Although I’m based on the Tweed Coast, I regularly travel for photography sessions and am available to shoot anywhere across Australia’s East Coast from Coffs Harbour to Sunshine Coast. I also accept international assignments and have worked on projects abroad.
If you're located outside of my immediate region, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to travel for shoots, especially when collaborating with creative talents, athletes, or fashion brands with strong concepts.
Professional Business Photography for Websites, Social Media & Branding
In today’s digital world, strong visual identity is essential for any business large or small. At Sharpfocuspics, I provide professional photography services for businesses that want to stand out online, build trust, and connect authentically with their audience.
Whether you're a small business owner, a startup, or an established brand, I create high-quality, clean, and modern images that you can use across your website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and all other platforms where your brand lives.
Corporate Headshots & Team Photos
A great headshot is more than just a photo - it’s your first impression. I offer modern corporate, small business headshots and team portraits that are natural, approachable, and aligned with your brand’s personality.
Perfect for:
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Company websites and "About Us" pages
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LinkedIn profiles and CVs
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Business cards and marketing materials
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Employee spotlights on social media
You can choose between studio-style sessions with neutral backdrops, or environmental portraits taken at your office or on location for a more natural, lifestyle look.
Website & Branding Photography
Need strong imagery for your business website? I’ll help you build a visual library that reflects your brand’s values, products, and people.
These shoots can include:
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Office or workspace photography
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Behind-the-scenes images of your team in action
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Product photos in context
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Lifestyle shots that show your brand culture
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Location-based shots that highlight your storefront or services
These custom sessions are great for creating a cohesive brand story that’s consistent across all platforms—from your homepage to your blog.
Content Creation for Instagram & Social Media
Your content needs to look fresh, consistent, and professional. I offer ongoing or one-off photography sessions to generate high-quality images specifically for your Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok campaigns.
You’ll get:
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A variety of content-ready images in different formats
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Lifestyle shots, flatlays, product images, and creative compositions
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Images that match your aesthetic and brand voice
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Tips on how to use them effectively in your feed or stories
Whether you’re a personal brand, a beauty salon, a real estate agency, a fitness coach, or an e-commerce shop, I can create visual content that converts.
Music Band Photography – Powerful Visuals for Artists & Performers
As the founder of Sharpfocuspics, I specialise in creating dynamic, professional photography for music bands, solo artists, and performers.
Whether you're looking to build a visual identity, promote a new album release, or capture the energy of your live performances, I offer high-quality band photography tailored to your creative style.
Promotional Band Photography – Tell Your Story Visually
Your music deserves visuals that speak your language. I work closely with indie bands, rock groups, electronic duos, acoustic acts, and solo musicians to craft powerful imagery that reflects your sound, energy, and vibe.
These sessions are ideal for:
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Press kits (EPKs)
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Album covers and single artwork
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Social media promotion (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)
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Spotify banners Website headers
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Posters and merchandise
Whether you're just launching your band or you're about to go on tour, strong visuals will elevate your image and connect with your audience.
Live Music Photography – Capturing the Energy On Stage
As an accredited sports photographer, I’m experienced in capturing fast-paced, high-energy environments. I bring that same eye to live concert photography, ensuring each shot reflects the atmosphere and raw emotion of your show.
Using low-light techniques, stage lighting effects, and fast shutter settings, I deliver high-resolution images from:
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Concerts
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Open mic nights
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Tour shows
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Music festivals
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Rehearsals and soundchecks
These images are perfect for media coverage, gig promotion, and building your online presence.
Band Portraits – Editorial, Studio, or Location-Based
I offer group portraits and editorial shoots for bands and musicians who want to showcase their style off-stage.
These can be shot:
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In a professional studio
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On location (urban streets, nature, rooftops, abandoned buildings…)
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At your rehearsal space
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With natural light or controlled studio lighting
We’ll discuss your look, mood, and what message you want to send. I can assist with wardrobe, styling, and creative direction to bring your concept to life.
Professional Headshots & LinkedIn Photography – Make a Strong First Impression
In today’s competitive world, your online presence is often the first point of contact with clients, recruiters, and employers. That’s why having a professional headshot is essential for building trust and making an impact.
At Sharpfocuspics, Stephen Thomas specialises in high-quality, natural, and confident corporate portraits tailored to your professional goals.
LinkedIn Profile Pictures That Stand Out
Your LinkedIn photo says more than a thousand words.
Whether you’re a business professional, freelancer, creative, or recent graduate, I’ll help you create a photo that captures your authentic personality while looking polished, modern, and approachable.
My LinkedIn headshot sessions are designed to be quick, relaxed, and efficient — perfect for busy professionals.
You’ll receive retouched high-resolution images, optimised for:
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LinkedIn
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Resumes / CVs
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Corporate websites
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Email signatures
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Zoom / Teams profiles
Surf Photography – Capturing the Soul of the Ocean
Australia’s coastline offers some of the most iconic surf breaks in the world and the East Coast is a paradise for wave riders and ocean lovers.
As a passionate surf photographer, I specialise in capturing the raw power, flow, and style of surfers in their element, from sunrise sessions to epic sunset barrels.
Surf Sessions & Custom Shoots
I offer a range of surf photography services, including:
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In-water surf photography
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Shore-based telephoto action shots
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Drone footage and aerial stills
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Pre-surf and post-surf lifestyle portraits
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Editorial and content creation for brands or surf magazines
Perfect for:
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Pro surfers and amateurs wanting content for sponsors
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Surf brands and apparel companies
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Tourism boards and travel influencers
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Couples or individuals wanting cinematic surf memories
Sports photographer – Specialist in Swimming and Major Sporting Events
Stephen is an accredited sports photographer with extensive experience covering the Olympic Games, World Swimming Championships, and numerous national and international swimming competitions.
As a sports photography expert, Stephen captures the intensity and grace of athletes in action, with a particular passion for swimming events.
His work has been featured in high-profile sports media outlets, including Swimming World Magazine and Swimswam.com.
Sports Photography Highlights in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Worldwide
Stephen has been an accredited photographer at the Olympic Games, World and European Championships, and National Australian Swimming Events at Open, Masters and Age events.
He is skilled in capturing the action speed and excitement of competitive swimming, from start to finish, with powerful shots of swimmers in their best moments.
Action Shots
From the blocks to the split second touch on the wall, Stephen excels at shooting dynamic action sequences. He specializes in underwater shots, swimming strokes, and the powerful movements of athletes as they push themselves to the limit.
Training & Warm-Up Sessions: In addition to competition photography, Stephen documents training sessions and warm-ups to highlight the dedication and focus of swimmers. These intimate moments often reveal the mental preparation and discipline behind an athlete’s performance.
Outdoor & Poolside Photography
Whether in a competition pool or open water environments like the ocean or lake, Stephen adapts his style to capture the beauty of movement in diverse settings. His work combines the technical demands of sports photography with the natural beauty of water-based sports.
Key Features of Stephen’s Swimming Photography
Underwater Photography: Expert at shooting underwater action, capturing swimmers in motion below the surface, highlighting fluidity, speed, and precision.
Dynamic Action Sequences: Freeze the powerful strokes of competitive swimmers, from butterfly to freestyle, showcasing every muscle movement and splash of water.
Fast-Paced Event Coverage: Stephen thrives in high-pressure environments, covering intense swim meets where every second counts. His ability to get the right shot in such fast-paced settings sets him apart from other photographers.
Elite Swimming Photography – From Australia’s Top Clubs to Global Championships
As a specialist in professional swimming photography, I work with elite swimmers, coaches, and federations to capture the speed, strength, and spirit of the sport.
Through Sharpfocuspics, I’ve covered everything from local Club swim meets to the Olympic Games, providing powerful visuals for media, brands, and athletes alike.
Covering Major Swim Clubs Across Australia
Australia has one of the strongest swimming cultures in the world, and I’ve had the opportunity to photograph athletes from the country’s top swim clubs and elite training hubs, including:
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St Peters Western Swimming Club – Brisbane
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Rackley Swimming Club – Brisbane
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Bond University Swim Club – Gold Coast
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Miami Swimming Club – Gold Coast
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Nunawading Swimming Club – Melbourne
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Carlile Swimming Club – Sydney
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Warringah Aquatic Swim Club - Sydney
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Marion Swimming Club – Adelaide
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UWA West Coast Swimming Club – Perth
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City of Perth Swimming Club – Perth
These clubs produce some of the world’s fastest swimmers, and I regularly cover training sessions, qualifying events, and national competitions in cities like Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra and Perth.
The World of Photography – A Passion, A Craft, A Career
Photography is more than just taking pictures it's a lifelong journey of learning, experimenting, and storytelling. Whether you're an amateur exploring digital photography, an aspiring freelance photographer, or a seasoned photojournalist, mastering the art of the shutter is both thrilling and rewarding.
From adjusting shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, to learning how to use a tripod, a telephoto lens, or a wide angle, the technical side of photography is just as important as the creative one.
Whether you're shooting landscape photos, sports images, or detailed macro work, understanding depth of field, white balance, and autofocus is essential.Many of today’s professional photographers started out by simply taking photos with a point and shoot or entry-level DSLR.
Now, with the rise of the mirrorless camera, improved camera gear, and powerful tools like Photoshop, Lightroom, and digital imaging software, the possibilities in the photography business are endless.
From product photography to fashion photography, lifestyle photography, and editorial photography, each genre requires unique photography techniques and creative vision.As a freelancer, you might shoot weddings, offer event photography services, or focus on portraiture for clients building a photography portfolio.
Others pursue wildlife photography, aerial photography, or cover a sporting event like a football game, rugby match, or volleyball tournament, capturing those intense action photos from the sideline with long telephoto lenses.
Many portrait photographers or wedding photographers find themselves freelancing locally while also teaching photography workshops, offering photography tips or tutorials for beginners. Whether you’re attending a photography school, enrolled in a photography degree or diploma program, or following online photography courses, education is a huge part of becoming a successful photographer.
From street photography to still life photography, and from cityscapes to nature photography, the art of photography is constantly evolving. Great photography inspiration comes from the natural world, breathtaking landscape images, and iconic fashion photographers, or even browsing through photography magazines and galleries.
Tools like Adobe Lightroom, Canon EOS, Nikon DSLR, ND filters, zoom lenses, and strobes allow for creative post-processing and image editing that elevate your shots from good to great. And when working in low light, knowing how to compose using shallow depth of field and controlling your shutter priority can make all the difference.
Those looking to become a photographer professionally may pursue a bachelor of fine arts, build a strong photography website, submit to stock photography platforms, or go on photo tours around the world.
Whether it’s capturing beautiful landscapes, creating powerful event photography, or becoming a full-time sports photographer, this field is filled with opportunity.
From fashion shoots to sporting events, from freelance photography to commercial photography, from local photographers to those traveling the world, this is more than a career—it’s a way of seeing life through the lens.
