Tag: John McRae Photography

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Prinnie Stevens brings her team back into the studio

Australian singer, songwriter, and performer Prinnie Stevens has long been celebrated for her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and versatility across soul, R&B, pop, and musical theatre. From her standout performances on The Voice to starring roles in stage productions and her acclaimed show Lady Sings the Blues, Prinnie has built a reputation as one of the country’s most dynamic and inspiring artists.

We were back in my Lilyfield studio for a fresh round of photos, based on new ideas and forthcoming shows. Prinnie’s creative energy and professionalism always make for a dynamic shoot, and this session was no exception.

We reunited the same team who worked together on her stunning Lady Sings the Blues campaign — myself behind the camera and our brilliant make-up and hair by Joe and Drew, from The Glow up Headquarters (instagram: @theglowuphq). It’s a combination that clicks, bringing the right balance of skill, trust, and fun into the room.

The day flowed with laughter, music, and plenty of creativity. Shoots like this remind me how rewarding it is to collaborate with talented and committed professionals. When everyone brings their best, the results speak for themselves — beautiful, powerful imagery that captures Prinnie at her absolute best.

I can’t wait to share the finished selected images from this session. In this blog I’ve posted a few out-takes for a behind the scenes look at the shoot.

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ACON celebrates 40 years

This year marks the 40th anniversary of ACON, an organisation that has been at the forefront of health, wellbeing and advocacy for LGBTQ+ communities in NSW. From its beginnings in 1985 as a response to the HIV/AIDS crisis, ACON has grown into a vital service provider, supporting people across diverse communities through health programs, harm reduction initiatives, campaigns, and community-building projects.

For four decades, ACON has stood as a fierce advocate, fighting stigma, breaking down barriers, and championing equality. Their work has not only saved lives, but also shaped a more inclusive society.

On a personal note, I recently had the privilege of visiting ACON’s offices to photograph a group of members and volunteers for a special cover image for the Sydney Star Observer. It was inspiring to meet and capture some of the faces who embody the organisation’s history and spirit. Being behind the camera in that moment reminded me how deeply ACON’s work has touched so many lives, and how vital their ongoing presence remains.

As we celebrate this milestone, it is an opportunity to reflect on the resilience of our communities, to acknowledge the countless individuals who have contributed to ACON’s journey, and to look ahead with gratitude and hope. Here’s to 40 years of care, courage, and change.

For more information on various events aligned to ACON’s 40th anniversary click on this link:

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The Hayes Theatre Company prepares for it’s 2006 season

Pictured: Steven Kramer (Writer of Phar Lap), Justin Smith (Cast of Phar Lap), Joel Granger (Cast of Phar Lap) and Sheridan Harbridge (Director of Phar Lap)

Together with various actors, writers, directors and costumers, I recently hosted a series of photo-shoots at my studio for the Hayes Theatre Company, in preparation for their 2026 season. The sessions involved still photographs of various cast members and video production of the actors and crew, filminging light-hearted, voice-to-camera interviews. We also created some grabs of slow-mo action for future marketing content.

Kayla French (marketing) commits herself to creating content with Joel Granger (Cast of Phar Lap)
Richard Carroll (Artistic Director) checks in with Billie and John (Cast Members)
Billie (Cast) in makeup with Ashleigh Grace (MUA)
Final social media images are captured before stepping on set.
Rica Canillas (Marketing, left) working hard with Kayla French (Marketing, right)
Sam Hernandez (Costuming, left), together with Richard (Director, right) adjust Billie’s costume

While the video cameras rolled, I also took the opportunity to capture some out-takes of the working process with my own camera. There was a vibrant and creative mood on set, with the team from Hayes Theatre Company bringing incredible energy to the studio. Moments like these are a powerful reminder of just how much collaborative effort goes into producing a theatrical season, with the contributions of so many talented individuals coming together behind the scenes.

Sam Hernandez (Wardrobe/Stylist) makes final adjustments to Billie Palin’s costume on set.
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A Little Night Music – takes home Sydney Theatre Awards

At the annual Sydney Theatre Awards, Best Production of a Musical was awarded to the Hayes Theatre’s new production of A Little Night Music, directed by Dean Bryant. Nancye Hayes was awarded Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical for her role in the same production, playing Madame Armfeldt in Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed play. Congratulations to all involved. I am proud that the images used for these awards incorporated my own production shots of the cast of A Little Night Music, taken in 2023.

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Happy Holidays to all!

I wish everyone a safe and wonderful holiday period.

John McRae Photography will be taking a break from 22 December, 2023 and will head back to the studio on Monday 8 January, 2024.

I look forward to seeing you and working with you in the New Year.

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Memorial Sculpture at Tamarama

Urban Arts Project (UAP) was commissioned by ACON and Waverley Council to create the Bondi Memorial to victims of LGBTQ hate crimes in Marks Park, Tamarama.

The Bondi Memorial public artwork honours the victims and survivors of homophobia and transphobic violence along the Sydney coastline. It acknowledges and heals the significant community trauma caused by these events, it raises greater community awareness of this issue and promotes the continuing need for relevant information to be brought to police attention.

Mark’s Park was selected as the location for the permanent memorial given its place in international history as the site of numerous attacks. Many gay men and transgender women were assaulted, and in some cases murdered, at Mark’s Park. 

 UAP’s design for a six-level stone terrace represents the six bands in the pride flag, and was seen as wholly embracing the memorial’s guiding principles of remembrance, diversity, inclusion, justice and acceptance.

Paula Masselos, Mayor of Waverley Council & Nicolas Parkhill, CEO of ACON

Voices from the gay community have said:

“It’s been too long in recognising these terrible events from our not-so-distant past,”

“Finally, we will have a permanent reminder by which we can pay respect to these men, their families, friends and the LGBTI community.”

Pictured below is Reg Domingo (ACON Communications) together with the rest of the team from ACON documenting the completion of the Bondi Memorial Project.