"Living Creatively: Brooke’s Inspiring Story of Photography, Resilience, and Embracing Life’s Moments"

Chat session 163 with Brooke 

🎧 Catch Up Link

Topic- “A Tale of Inspiration, Endurance, and Cherishing Every Moment"

Monday 13th July 2026 1pm https://rppfm.com.au

Brooke’s Journey into Photography: From Childhood to Community

Brooke’s passion for photography began at a young age. Her parents started gifting her disposable cameras to take on school camps and family events, igniting her love for capturing moments. She loved the excitement of waiting to see how her photos turned out after being developed. Her early exploration into film photography in high school allowed her to experiment with lighting, exposures, and development techniques, working with both colour and sepia images. During this time, she documented many family holidays, birthdays, and Christmas celebrations. A special gift from her teacher—a Minolta camera—further nurtured her budding interest.

Formal Education and Digital Transition

Brooke studied Creative Arts at Deakin University, where she continued to hone her skills and push her creative boundaries. About 12 years ago, her husband bought her an SLR camera, marking her transition into digital photography. She used her camera to document family holidays and everyday moments, turning her hobby into a meaningful part of her life. However, life’s busyness eventually led her to step back from her camera for several years.

A New Chapter on the Mornington Peninsula

In 2014, Brooke and her husband moved to the Mornington Peninsula after years of working at the Eagles Nest Theatre, formerly known as Brunswick theatre industry. They enjoyed overseas trips, started a family, and welcomed their daughter. Life was vibrant, but just eighteen months later, COVID-19 arrived in Australia, bringing lockdowns and uncertainty.

Rediscovering Photography During Lockdowns

Emerging from lockdown, Brooke decided to pick up her camera again dusting it off and reconnecting with her passion. About two years ago, a friend’s band approached her to photograph upcoming gigs at Soundbar in Capel Sound. Knowing Elizabeth, who had supported her for over a decade, Brooke pitched the idea of capturing bands, events, the venue, and food offerings. Her work quickly gained recognition, and she was invited to photograph larger events such as Rock for Redro, Halloween celebrations, and Country and Western nights.

Growing as a Community Photographer

Brooke’s enthusiasm and talent led her to become the primary photographer for the annual Battle of the Bands competition. Over the past two years, she expanded her role as the resident photographer for the Social Club Balnarring, documenting major music events on weekends. She fell in love with capturing genuine, raw moments and honing her craft with different lighting, lenses, and editing techniques. Her work at these community events opened doors to collaborations with the local council and other festivals, including Pretty Snazz in the Nazz and the Dromana Weekender.

Supporting Local Artists and Giving Back

Brooke is proud to be a sponsor for Battle of the Bands once again, offering her services as part of the prize. Supporting local musicians and artists within her community gives her immense joy. When she’s not behind the camera, she runs Ballistic Knits a small knitwear business selling handmade knitwear at The Flock of Seagulls indoor market and other local markets across the Peninsula. She’s been knitting for over fourteen years, nurturing a lifelong passion for the craft.

Balancing Life with Resilience and Hope

Living on the Mornington Peninsula with her husband and eight-year-old daughter, Brooke juggles her passions—photography, knitting, motherhood, and part-time barista work—by embracing resilience and positivity. Throughout her life, she has battled Dissociative Identity Disorder, formerly known as split personality disorder, a condition rooted in childhood trauma. Through ongoing therapy and self-work, she manages her challenges and strives to be a role model for her daughter, demonstrating that no obstacle is insurmountable when you pursue what you love.

"Discover Brookes Photofun and Ballistic Knits”

Brookes Photofun is a dynamic and candid photography venture led by Brooke, a talented photographer and creative collaborator based in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. She specializes in capturing natural portraiture, creative sessions, and authentic lifestyle moments. Brooke routinely works with individuals, couples, and emerging creatives across the region, focusing on documenting real personalities and genuine interactions in a relaxed and fun environment. If you are looking for a photographer to capture your special moments, Brooke would love to work with you!

Follow and connect with Brooke on Instagram at

 Brookes Photography and Photo Fun and Ballistic Knits 

My hope is that when you’re looking at yourself in the

‘The Daily Mirror’

YOU SMILE

EMBRACE BEING YOU

AND FIND 10 MINUTES IN YOUR DAY TO NOURISH YOUR SOUL!

To get in touch with Cathy email smileinthedailymirror@gmail.com 

'The Daily Mirror' acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.