Photographer Casey Van Liefde says her heart belongs to two things: her beautiful family and her photography business. After completing a 4-year degree in Visual Arts, it was an encounter with with an incredible woman that introduced Casey to photography. Casey says, “I have two main goals with all my photoshoots: you feel comfortable and you love your photos! And I promise when you see your images you will fall in love and know that they will be cherished for all time.” We spoke to Casey to learn more about her photography business.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
The love of beautiful portraits. I have always been obsessed with photography, but mainly portraits. I remember walking down my grandmother’s hallway and looking at all the beautiful portraits of my family from generations before. It always fascinated me and I have never lost that.
Since having my own children, my love and passion for beautiful portraits has only grown. We all have so many photos on our phones, but its about capturing and creating those stunning images that you frame and splay in your home. It’s also about existing in portraits. I know what it’s like for mums, we are always behind the camera. But what happens in 20 years time when your children ask you, why aren’t you in any of the photos? Despite how we may feel about ourselves, the people who love us, our children, our families, they love us just the way we are!
The Launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
We lived in the Gold Coast and had a small single garage out the back of our little cottage which I converted into a studio. I slowly built my business up, improving my skills and learning everything along the way. That was 11 years ago and I still have my studio set up at home, except now it is a bit bigger and more beautiful.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
Realising how they made people feel and what they mean to people as the years go on. As people grow and pass, these portraits become even more priceless. As I watch my children grow before my eyes, the beautiful portraits I have of them during their first year mean everything to me! They are displayed proudly in my home and simply take my breath away. I can never go back to those moments, but I can remember them forever.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
I am fortunate enough to work from home. So while my children are at daycare I work as hard as I can, but once I pick them up, it’s all about them. Sundays are our family day and we always try and do something fun with them. My kids are often in my studio, helping me tidy or organise things. I also try and photograph them at least once a year.
