A little bit about me.
Hi there!
I’m Elvia - Mama of two (Garnett & Jasper), professional photographer and the owner of Brushtail Photography.
My interest in photography sparked as a young teen. I loved taking photographs of anything that brought me joy; from interesting textures, colours, lights/shadows, to architecture and self-portraits etc.
After finishing high school, I began my first job at Coles and attended Raffles College of Design and Commerce to study a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication (with a Photography major). After studying for two years (and despite consistently producing ‘high distinctions’), my fear of the unknown unfortunately prevailed at this point in my life and I accepted a ‘retail leaders’ program at Coles where I held various department manager positions for several years.
In 2015 I gave birth to my first son and moved to the Blue Mountains. I began to realise that overcoming my fears was no longer just about me, but for both of us. I desired a career that sparked my passion, and by the time he was 8 months old I launched my business (originally, Bottlebrush Photography).
The first issue I needed to tackle was my social anxiety, which I had struggled with from a young age - I joined a couple of mothers' groups and found that being open about my anxiety meant that I didn't feel ashamed. Being honest from the start reduced my discomfort because people responded with compassion and helped me feel welcome, I no longer felt guilty about not approaching people or feared being perceived as 'rude’. The first few photography sessions I did were for acquaintances I'd met through mothers’ groups!
From 2015-2019 we had massive success with our 'playdate' style Santa Sessions. I found having lots of short sessions close together at the start of my photography career meant that I rapidly picked up a repertoire of ways to engage with different children to help them feel comfortable.
I’ve discovered how much I love working with young kids, Neurodiverse children and families - the ones that tend to be shy or withdrawn, the ones that don't like sitting still, the ones that don't make eye contact, the ones that want to do their own thing, and the children that you wouldn't think would enjoy having their photo taken! I incorporate movement, sensory-seeking and play into sessions.
I've come a long way since becoming a parent 8 years ago; through therapy and endless amounts of personal research I've discovered that I’m Neurodivergent (late diagnosed ADHD at 29, Autistic at 31) which has brought a lot of understanding to the way I interact with the world - what I used to consider as personal deficits are now met with compassion, understanding and accommodations.
That is exactly what I look forward to bringing to you and your family; compassion, understanding and accomodations. I hope to make your experience with me as enjoyable and comfortable as possible, resulting in beautiful and authentic images.
I look forward to meeting you!
With love,
Elvia x