With her vibrant beach scenes captured on camera Kiwi-born Sydneysider Poppie Pack is making waves with her photography. Her prints evoke joy, a moment in time that is relatable and ever so desirable. Antipodeans will feel at home viewing her work, reminded of the hazy days of summer we grew up with. A vista that is ever changing due to weather and people, Poppie loves to play composition, light and has started working with film.
From her travels to Hawaii, her love of capturing sun and surf continues. Poppie traveled to India and has some stunning images from there; should the world open up again we can imagine how many more places and faces she will capture in her somewhat documentary style. Rather than poised like a Slim Aarons, her images are free, the subjects appear to feel unnoticed yet perfectly portrayed. Modern, fresh and clean yet utterly timeless, we can imagine these images hanging on many walls for many decades to come. Check out our selection of her prints. If you would like more to add to your registry, let us know.
When did your love for photography begin and who inspires you?
I studied photography at school and uni, but it was never considered much of a career gateway, so design took priority. However, my love for photography and photographs beautifully cross-pollinated with my design work, as my graphic style has always been largely image based.
My inspiration comes from my family. My mother is an interior designer whose taste is timeless, my brother is an art enthusiast, and my late dad had impeccable style. I haven’t needed much more growing up. My fiancé, Damien is a CFO, and makes the perfect business mentor – I’m really lucky to be surrounded by such talented people.
What do you shoot on?
I have used Canon cameras for as long as I can remember. I bought a mirrorless M50 two years ago, it’s so light in comparison to other DSLRs, which means it travels beautifully. My favourite lens is my 55-200mm – perfect for getting those coastal surfer details. I am also playing around with film again which is a neat, time-consuming and patience-requiring hobby.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
Salty? I like to think that my images are more like paintings than photographs. I love creating a nostalgic, feel-good vibe that people can incorporate into their homes. My style is very clean, considered and fresh.
You shoot a lot of beach scenes, tell us why you are drawn to these?
At the beach, there are no two days the same. I moved to Sydney from Auckland 8 years ago for the sun and the beach – it’s got such a good feeling, shooting for me is as much an experience as it is a hobby.
What else do you do?
I’m a graphic/web/UX designer. I’ve spent the larger part of my professional life working in tech, so it’s amazing to now be able to work with printing studios, fine art paper, beautiful framing, and see my work in a tangible, physical presence.
Who are your favourite photographers / artists and why?
I have recently bought a Claire Kirkup who is an Australian artist, she uses amazing color. I love Ash Holmes’ expressive, tonal style. Lucy Laucht and Cameron Hammond on the photography front – I adore film photography.
Travel photography seems to be a fave – if you could go anywhere where would you go and why?
My dream journey would be a road trip around America photographing Palm Trees.
What makes a good photo?
The feeling you get from looking at it.
Which books are you reading at the moment?
Ghosts by Dolly Alderton.
Which podcasts are you listening to?
I loved The High Low (RIP) and The Unusable Podcast is excellent for all the UX lovers or haters out there.
