Construction – John McRae Photography & Studio

November 1, 2025November 11, 2025

Revisiting Wonderland – Central Park

Every so often, I like to revisit shoots from the archive. It’s not just a chance to reflect on past projects — it’s an opportunity to rediscover images, appreciate the work again with fresh eyes, and showcase it to clients who may find relevance in it today. That was certainly the case with my 2019 shoot for Multiplex at Wonderland Central Park, located near Broadway in Sydney.

Wonderland Central Park is an iconic addition to the inner-city landscape — a striking architectural development that blends bold design, modern living, and an innovative approach to urban space. When Multiplex commissioned me to photograph the project, the goal was to capture the building’s presence, energy, and the seamless integration of architectural elements into the vibrant Central Park precinct.

Fast-forward to recently, when Allegion Australia, a Melbourne-based company responsible for the exterior, shutters on the building, reached out for imagery showcasing their work as part of the façade. Revisiting this shoot reminded me just how impressive the structure is — and how rewarding it is to create visuals that stand the test of time. Good architectural photography doesn’t just document a building; it becomes part of its story and continues to serve its purpose as an enduring image.

Looking back at the images, my focus was on scale, texture, and the way light interacted with the structure. The exterior shutters — an integral feature of the building’s character — play a key role in both form and function, and it was exciting to see this detail acknowledged and requested for industry use.

Why revisiting past work matters

As creatives, we often move quickly from one project to the next. But revisiting earlier shoots offers value in many ways, including giving fresh perspective, highlighting industrial relevance and signalling the evolution of my portfolio.

For me, it also underscores the importance of building a catalogue of commercial work that continues to support architects, builders, and suppliers long after a project is completed.

October 16, 2025November 10, 2025

Roberts & Co upgrade of Cumberland High School continues

I recently returned to Cumberland High School to capture the latest phase of the impressive upgrade by Roberts Co. This visit marked the completion of the latest phase of the project (there is more to come), with the final extension of classrooms now in place, alongside a brand-new high school building designed to house woodwork, technical studies, and other hands-on learning activities.

A standout addition is the state-of-the-art gymnasium and multi-purpose meeting hall, both built with a clear focus on functionality, light, and space. The architecture and finishes speak to a modern learning environment—one that feels open, inspiring, and well considered.

The transformation of Cumberland High has been remarkable to witness over the course of construction. With handover approaching, it’s easy to imagine how much the students and staff will appreciate their revitalised campus—ready for a new chapter of learning and community.

September 27, 2025

Mainbrace converts warehouse for Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to photograph the newly converted Amazon warehouse at Chullora, a massive facility that speaks to the scale and precision of modern logistics. This project, delivered by Mainbrace Constructions, highlights their reputation as one of Australia’s leading builders, known for managing large and complex retail and industrial projects across the country.

Walking into the site, I was immediately struck by the immensity of the space. The vast interior is laid out with bays for trucks, an intricate system of conveyor belts, and a network of machinery designed to ensure the smooth and rapid movement of parcels. Every detail is engineered for efficiency—an invisible but vital backbone of our daily lives in the city.

I chose to shoot into dusk, when the fading light softens the enormity of the structures, and the artificial glow inside the warehouse begins to dominate the scene. The interplay of natural and industrial light creates a calm, almost cinematic atmosphere, balancing the sheer scale of the operation with a sense of quiet focus.

Complexes like this are essential services that underpin the way we live. They allow the seamless flow of goods—everything from household staples to urgent deliveries—that we’ve come to expect as part of our fast-paced urban lives. Photographing this site was a reminder of how these unseen logistics hubs keep our cities moving, even if they’re tucked away in industrial zones on the edge of town.

September 25, 2025November 10, 2025

Photographing ESR’s Wetherill Park Development

I was recently commissioned by ESR, a leading developer, owner, and manager of industrial and logistics real estate. With projects spanning across the Asia-Pacific region, ESR creates the kind of infrastructure that underpins how our cities function — from the warehouses that store goods to the distribution centres that keep supply chains moving.

My latest shoot for them took me to Wetherill Park, where ESR has completed a new warehouse complex made up of four distinct buildings. These immense structures rise from the western Sydney landscape, commanding attention not just through their size but through their purpose — serving as vital arteries in the logistics network of a growing city.

I began shooting in the afternoon and worked until dusk, when the light grew softer. The quiet transition from day to evening is one of my favourite times to photograph; the stillness of the outer west makes you pause and reflect on just how much infrastructure is required to sustain the concentrated population closer to the city’s centre. For most of us, this vast logistical framework remains invisible, yet it is essential to the way we live and work every day.

From a technical standpoint, photographing warehouses of this scale demands careful attention to form and structure. These buildings are geometric and monumental, so framing becomes about emphasising clean lines, proportions, and the relationship between the built form and the surrounding landscape. Light is another critical consideration — harsh midday sun can flatten the details, while late afternoon and evening light adds dimension and mood. Managing exposure is also key: balancing shadow and highlight to preserve detail across such expansive façades.

I enjoy photographing these structures which are neither decorative nor ornamental. They embody purpose, efficiency and scale – qualities that, when seen through the lens, reveal their own quiet beauty.

August 2, 2025August 4, 2025

Shooting the work of Serg from Prestige Plus

One of my July projects was to photograph a series of stunning interior and exterior residential projects for Prestige Plus, a Sydney‑based company specialised in the manufacture and installation of premium double‑ and triple‑glazed windows and doors.

This assignment was particularly engaging for me as I focused on capturing the quality and beauty of the glass structures installed by Serg and his team. The work was at high‑end residences featuring large picture windows, sliding doors, bi‑fold systems, and custom configurations, allowing light to pour in while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Inside the homes, the precision workmanship of the Prestige Plus team was evident: seamless frames, strong clean lines, and reflective surfaces that played beautifully with natural light. Outside, I documented how the installations enhanced the architectural form—highlighting courtyard glazing, expansive views, and the way the glass connected interiors with the outdoors.

For me each project was an adventure into another world … I would travel to areas of Sydney that I rarely visit such as the beautiful Cottage Point and also Grasmere. I would then lose myself in the task of working with angles, perspectives, light and other variables, to create striking images for my client.

July 31, 2025August 2, 2025

Roberts & Co upgrades infrastructure at Cumberland High School

A recent commission was to photograph the completion of the latest stage of the development at Cumberland High School, by Roberts & Co. The project has delivered a series of new buildings and classrooms designed to provide state-of-the-art teaching facilities for students and staff.

The contemporary architecture, light-filled spaces, and innovative layouts reflect a strong focus on creating inspiring environments for learning. My aim was to capture the scale and detail of the design, from the expansive communal areas to the thoughtfully planned classrooms.

Projects like this demonstrate how modern educational spaces can foster creativity. I am always reminded that things weren’t quite so spiffy and high-tech when I was attending my local high school in country Victoria. I could not have imagined how different school life would be in the contemporary setting of young students today – with computers, internet, social media – all the bells and whistles of current technology. It was certainly a simpler time for me.

July 30, 2025August 3, 2025

Images of new bio lab at Macquarie University

I was recently commissioned by RCCI, a specialised team within Richard Crookes Constructions that manages interior fit-outs up to $30 million, to photograph the new Level 2 Bio Lab at Macquarie University.

Purpose-built to advance the study of frogs, this state-of-the-art facility provides researchers with the resources to continue their vital work. For me, photographing the clean lines and precision of the lab’s design was a fascinating experience, offering a glimpse into an environment where science and architecture intersect.

June 17, 2025June 18, 2025

Ned’s renovation progresses

In a previous blog in November 2022, I featured the renovation of the downstairs section of a Melbourne home owned by my friend Ned. (See the link: https://www.johnmcrae.com/neds-place/) Well, Ned is at it again – this time turning his attention to the upstairs area. The transformation continues at this solid, 70s-inspired brick house, tucked away in the charming inner-west suburb of Yarraville.

Pic: from previous downstairs renovation of the kitchen area

This free-standing residence has always had great bones – solid construction, generous proportions, and an unmistakable retro flair. When Ned tackled the downstairs areas last year, he focused on bringing in light, opening up the layout, and adding clean, contemporary touches without losing the character of the home. The results are warm, modern, and inviting.

Ned pictured with his sister, Jacquie, at the front of the Yarraville house.

Now, with the upstairs overhaul complete, the story continues. Once again, Ned teamed up with the likeable and ever-reliable Ali from Featurepoint Constructions – the same builder who brought such care and craftsmanship to the previous stage of the renovation. Ali’s steady hand and eye for detail helps Ned’s vision to materialise, ensuring that the upstairs work matches the quality and style of what had already been achieved downstairs.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s been updated:

Bedrooms were reimagined including re-invigorated, clever storage solutions, and a lighter palette that makes the most of natural light.
The bathroom received a full makeover, with sleek new fixtures, a more efficient layout, and understated tiling to blend functionality with style.
Hallways and common areas were decluttered and refreshed, creating a more cohesive and streamlined flow throughout the space.

Ali and his team at Feature Point Constructions kept things running smoothly, with a hands-on approach and genuine attention to the details that make all the difference. The result? An upstairs space that feels calm, cohesive, and contemporary, crafted with the highest of standards.

Scroll down to check out some of the before-and-after shots. It’s always amazing to see how clever changes – both big and small – can breathe new life into a space.

April 9, 2025April 10, 2025

“Topping event” at Parramatta

The recent event by Roberts Co at Charles Street, Parramatta was to mark the recent completion of the “top floor” of this residential sky-scraper. Hence the expression “topping”. The views are amazing.

As I have posted before, topping is a ritual in the construction industry to celebrate a landmark, meaning that the building has reached its highest point. Normally a tree hoisted by crane to the pinnacle. The parties involved (executives, project managers, architects, financiers, etc) congregate, speeches are made and everyone takes a moment to discuss the progress and the future completion. The tree is usually planted later in the grounds.

March 6, 2025March 9, 2025

Head shots at the new airport in Badgerys Creek

As a photographer, one of the things I truly enjoy is taking corporate headshots. It’s not just about snapping a picture; it’s about trying to capture the essence of a person, which can be a tough task in the limited time one has available. What intrigues me is how every shoot tells a unique story, and I get to be part of each story, even if only for a brief moment.

Recently, I had the privilege of continuing work on a project with Multiplex, the company behind the construction of the first phase of the Badgerys Creek Airport, west of Sydney. The terminal is nearing completion, and it’s amazing to see how something so massive and complex comes together piece by piece. The airport is scheduled to open by the end of 2026. For now, it’s a symbol of both ambition and dedication, before it becomes a bustling transport hub.

What makes this job particularly exciting is the people I get to meet. When you’re photographing in the construction industry, you’re not just dealing with one type of profession. You’re working with a wide variety of individuals from all walks of life. Construction is, in many ways, a microcosm of diversity. There are people from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds, with different personalities and unique perspectives on the world.

For this particular shoot, my assistant, Nick, and I set up in one of the temporary offices at the construction site. I arranged a three-light setup, which gives a soft, even look that flatters most faces, and we shot against a mid-grey neutral background. It’s a simple setup, but it always delivers clean, professional results.

While I focused on taking the portraits, Nick took charge of the computer and peripherals. We’d made a decision beforehand to streamline the process: after each shot, I’d hand the camera card to Nick, who would download the files and immediately take the sitter through the process of selecting their favorite images. It’s always a great feeling to see a subject react to the portraits, even if they’re only a few moments old. They’d go through the shots with Nick, narrowing it down to their two favorite images, while I would proceed to shoot with the next person.

Making the most of the short time we had with each individual, the session moved efficiently while still giving everyone a chance to review their photos on the spot.

What’s intriguing about corporate headshots in this context is that as a photographer, you have the opportunity to interact with so many different viewpoints in a relatively short space of time. Each headshot session becomes a tiny window into a succession of worlds, highlighting the many roles in the grand project.

Large scale construction projects bring people together from different corners of society. Whether it’s the engineers, the architects, the laborers, the logistics experts or project managers, everyone has their own story to tell. I am fortunate to be the one to capture the brief moment when they pause to have their photo taken. These small but meaningful interactions are what make this work so fulfilling.

It’s creating a new narrative. And in the construction industry, with its range of characters, backgrounds, and experiences, I feel incredibly lucky to be able to document these stories, one headshot at a time.

January 9, 2025January 13, 2025

New EV Training Centre at TAFE, Wetherill Park

I recently visited TAFE in Wetherill Park to photograph for Richard Crookes Interiors. RCCI has just completed the refurbishment of an existing building on the college campus.

This project involves the development of a state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) training centre on the TAFE campus. This initiative is significant as it now provides a dedicated training facility for students at Wetherill Park, as one of the latest additions in the nation. The centre will focus on all aspects of electric vehicle maintenance and repairs. As the number of electric vehicles on the road continues to rise, this specialized area of education and maintenance becomes increasingly important.

January 9, 2025January 13, 2025

Roberts & Co – “topping out” at Wentworth Point

I am frequently asked to photograph “topping out” events for various stakeholders in the construction industry. On this occasion, I was invited to document the “topping out” of an educational facility at Wentworth Point in western Sydney, during mid-construction.

You might wonder, what is a “topping out”? According to Wikipedia, it is a practice which seems to have originated in ancient Scandinavia as a religious rite, where a tree was placed atop a new building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits displaced during construction. The tree also served a practical purpose: when the pine needles fell to the ground, it signaled to the builders that their timber frame had cured or dried.

Today, a “topping out” event is usually organized by the builder, who invites those partners and associates involved with the project to a ceremony to mark the completion of the final level in construction, signifying that the structure is finished.

At the event I covered for Roberts & Co., a large potted tree was hoisted by crane onto the roof of the building. Speeches were made and group photos were taken. I learned that the tree does not remain on the roof; after the event, it is taken back down by crane and planted somewhere nearby.

November 11, 2024November 11, 2024

Sod-Turning at Minto

The team at Charter Hall and Prime Construcitons came together to mark the commencement of a new development at Minto. A short ceremony was organised where speeches were made and refreshments were consumed, as well as the symbolic turning of the first sod of ground.

The “sod-turning” is a symbolic re-enactment of the first bit of dirt that is dug up when work on the site is commenced. Three very shiny shovels were prepared for this construction ritual and then the appropriate individuals dig into the ground and dislodge the first bit of dirt (see photo).

A delicious spread was provided for breakfast on the day

Photo: commencement of construction on the site at Minto

September 19, 2024September 25, 2024

New logistics facility at Prestons

A new logistics facility opened for inspection in Prestons, a suburb south-west of the Sydney CBD. I was commissioned to photograph the completed stages of the building, which has been constructed by Hansen Yuncken. I also covered an event at the same site, hosted by the developer, 151 Properties.

What is particularly impressive about this structure is the huge awning which stretches over the loading bays, spanning both warehouses. This is one of the largest dual-purpose awnings I have recently seen.

151 Properties held a presentation for agents who work in this industry, to show them around and to publicize that a new, state-of-the-art logistics facility was available for rent. Obviously by demonstrating innovation and by fielding potential customers for 151 Properties, it shows how layered the construction industry can be when many stakeholders are involved … from the lofty levels of financing and investment, to the actual build, project management and deployment. At any step of the way, you can be sure there are a number of people and interests involved.

The early morning presentation proceeded well. There were several speeches and then visitors were taken on tours of the facility. However, alongside the impressive structure itself, the best part for me was the hamburger stand and the accompanying coffee stand … breakfast was a welcome treat.

August 14, 2024August 15, 2024

Warehouses and the colours of the Australian landscape

The zone around Eastern Creek and beyond has become the “home of the warehouse” … a broad stretch of land covered with severely functional, industrial buildings, reminding us of our need to supply, store and coordinate the comings and goings of products for the daily requirements of our urban populations.

I imagine that most people are unaware of the enormous scale of this area of infrastructure, perched on the out-skirts of Sydney. It’s not really a destination …”let’s take the kids to see the warehouses at Eastern Creek”. If you live in residential enclaves in the vicinity, you may only see the warehouses in passing. But most inner-city, latte-sipping urbanites have no idea of the alternate “cities of large boxes” that inhabit the periphery of our cities.

This warehouse complex was built by Prime Constructions for ISPT, the developer, by whom I was commissioned to make these images. I like this type of shoot, since it allows me time to walk around these enormous structures, completely alone in the industrial landscape, capturing the sharp angles of these dislocated icons as the sun starts setting. I usually keep shooting into the twilight, for about half an hour once the sun has gone down. I then pack up my equipment, hop in my car and drive 40kms back towards the inner city.

June 24, 2024June 29, 2024

Elevating the impact of your stories: introducing Drone Photography & Video!

I’m thrilled to share an exciting update from my studio, set to elevate your visual storytelling to new heights.

Introducing Drone Photography & Video Services

Together with the expertise provided by my “in-flight” technical colleagues, I’m taking to the skies to offer you the impact of breathtaking aerial shots and videos, adding a striking perspective to your marketing potential. Whether you’re looking to captivate your audience with aerial views as part of your company’s promotional content, bring a new dimension to customer stories, or add an unforgettable touch to your special events like weddings or performances, we’ve got you covered.

Why drone photography

– Unique perspectives: Capture angles and vistas which can’t be achieved through traditional photography.

– Engaging content: Elevate your social media and marketing clout with captivating aerial footage and stand-out imagery.

– Dynamic versatility: Perfect for real estate showcases, plotting construction progress, documenting event highlights, and scenic backdrops for many occasions.

Stay tuned for our portfolio update, where we’ll be showcasing some of our spectacular drone captures.

If you are interested in adding a sky-high perspective to your next project or event, let’s chat about how we can integrate drone photography and video into your vision.

Elevate your story with John McRae Photography.

June 19, 2024June 24, 2024

Xenia Constructions upgrade shopping centre entrance in Forster

The other week I made a trip into rural NSW to photograph the recent upgrade by Xenia Constructions to the entrance to the Stocklands Shopping Centre in Forster.

Originally coming from Victoria, having grown up on a dairy farm in the Wimmera Mallee region, I am not so aware of the life-style in country NSW. Hence I enjoyed the chance to be able to travel beyond Sydney and its urban perimeters.

For this project, I ventured to Forster on the NSW coast, approximately two hours drive north of Newcastle. I had rarely been to this part of the state, so it was a new working experience for me. It did not disappoint. You honestly can’t complain about the coastline of this beautiful country where we live.

I arrived early to capture the site with the softer light of the morning. Luckily I set up a bit earlier than originally planned, since the light quickly became harsh after the sun rose higher. Sydney had been experiencing an exceptionally wet and overcast week, putting a question mark over whether I should risk hitting bad weather in Forster. But I decided to trust the weather forecast for that area (not that you can always rely on the forecast) and to make the journey. I had a feeling that it would be OK … and it was.

I am certainly ready for more jaunts into the country, organising a new project or two to shoot … while I expand my familiarity with rural NSW.

April 3, 2024May 1, 2024

Mainbrace – installs charging stations at Eastern Creek

Mainbrace Constructions, a well-known, Melbourne-based construction company has recently installed a series of high-tech charging stations for “Team Global Express” at Eastern Creek.

I headed to the facility situated amid western Sydney’s growing industrial estates to document the new infrastructure, set up to furnish a sleek new fleet of battery-powered delivery trucks.

My photographs show the regulated lines of vehicles positioned at the automated power stations, providing an impressive, almost futuristic look as they are “re-fuelled” for the next day’s work.

Together with my drone operator, Aymeric, we took wide-angle video footage of the site as well. See footage below:

January 9, 2024January 9, 2024

Re:form creates its 2024 Calendar

Re:Form Construction is one of my construction clients. As a highly skilled, boutique building company, they are a joy to work with.

Gerard Murphy, the director of the company, decided that each year Re:Form would produce a calendar featuring members of its team, as a give-away at Christmas time.

I had the pleasure of capturing individual and group shots of different members of the Re:Form Construction team while they worked on-site at their respective trade skills. I visited one of their sites in Castlecrag in Sydney, and then on another occasion, I traveled to the Megalong Valley where another team of workmen were engaged in the construction of a large tourist project.

The calendar is a fun and inclusive publication, and it was an enjoyable process to capture these outdoor and working portraits. The men also get a kick out of having their “15 minutes of fame”, plus the idea of appearing as a month on the calendar.

November 19, 2023November 20, 2023

Sod turning in Blacktown and Eastern Creek

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Sod turning, also known as groundbreaking, cutting, sod-cutting or “turning the first sod”, is a traditional ceremony in many cultures to celebrate the first day of construction of a building or other large-scale project. Such ceremonies are often attended by dignitaries including politicians and financers. In two recent ceremonies in Sydney which I recorded as photographer, the dignitaries were various business people associated with the developments, namely the developer (ISPT) and the two respective builders (Prime Constructions and Texco).

The actual shovel used (see above pic) during the groundbreaking is often a special ceremonial shovel, sometimes coloured gold, and it is meant to be saved for subsequent display. It may also be engraved. Sometimes a bulldozer is used instead of a shovel (but not at these two events, although an excavator was moved into the background at the Eastern Creek site for dramatic effect).

Sod turning at Eastern Creek with ISPT and Prime Constructions

At Eastern Creek golden shovels were used for the sod turning

Groundbreaking ceremonies have a long history, celebrated for centuries to officially mark the beginning of construction of a new property, partly to thank those who made it possible (noting that the people concerned may have already been working for years to finance, design and develop the project to the point of actual construction). The first documented groundbreaking ceremony took place in ancient China, in 113 BC. Many early groundbreaking ceremonies were intrinsically linked to religion, however this is not necessarily the case in modern times.

In November, I attended two ceremonies on the same day … both featuring the developer ISPT, who partnered with Texco (builders for the Bessemer Business Park in Blacktown) and Prime Constructions (builders for the Eastern Creek site). I appreciate how important it is to acknowledge the hard work and achievement of people through these “rites of passage”, such as sod turning. Of course this is just the start, since these men and women are about to embark on a new phase of hard work, in the building of these new structures and warehouse facilities, due for completion in late 2024.

Much to my delight both ceremonies included cakes and coffee following the speeches and formalities.