About Me, Sunshine Coast Maternity, Newborn and Family Photographer
Hey! I’m Hannah, owner of Maeleo Photography… a maternity, newborn and family photography business based on the Sunshine Coast. Thank you so much for checking out my new website, I really appreciate you being here. I figured what better way to launch a new website than with an introduction of myself.
So! I’m Hannah, 25 years old and mother to two gorgeous children aged 3 and 6. I don’t share their names on social media however, their middle names are Mae and Leo… which inspired my business name Maeleo. I was lucky enough to grow up here on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and feel so grateful my children get to explore the same beaches that I did whilst growing up.
Some of the little things I love include - a hot coffee, the summertime, being out in nature, swimming in the ocean, the sand beneath my toes, the smell of old books, taking photos, being creative and earth tones.
My photography journey started after becoming a mother myself… pregnancy taught me how truly magical a woman’s body is and motherhood has shown me how fleeting every single little moment is. This is where my heart sits within the photography industry and why I’m so passionate about capturing motherhood and beyond. I hope to preserve those fleeting little moments for other families, to look back on and cherish for years to come.
'Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.’ — Dr Seuss.
I have been on this business journey for over two years now. I dived in head first, completely self taught and I am still learning every single day. Overall, I have loved the journey, both the highs and the lows. This business has really encouraged me to grow in many ways and it has also given me a sense of pride (it’s like my third baby). I am a naturally creative person, so this part comes easy to me… however I am a total introvert so having to put myself out there and meet many new people has really forced me to come out of my shell and boosted my overall confidence.
It hasn’t been an easy journey though, that’s for sure. There have been many late nights, headaches, mistakes, tears, creative blocks and plenty of times (even still) I’ve wondered what the hell I’m doing and wanted to just throw the towel in and give up. I am slowly learning that it is all a part of the journey, and just to trust the process. I try to learn from every mistake and understand that creative blocks are bound to happen.
“Fall in love with the process, and the results will come.” — Eric Thomas.
When I’m feeling uninspired, overworked or even just frustrated… I take a step back and try and redirect my focus on myself, my children and allow my mind to be calm. Once I am feeling calmer I focus on finding inspiration. The sun sparkling on the ocean water, the fresh country air, fog on a cold morning, the smell of rain, the way light falls, baby bellies that come in all shapes and sizes, the way a baby twirls their mothers hair while feeding, the way a doting dad plays with his children. There is beauty in the little things. This is where I find my inspiration, you just have to take notice.
When I am not out photographing families, I am spending time with my own. I am a total homebody. I do love an adventure though, and feel so lucky with the incredible locations, landscapes and activities we have within our reach here on the Sunshine Coast. We spend most of our time at the beach, climbing mountains, going camping or playing at playgrounds.
Here are some random facts to learn a little more about me
I had my daughter at just 18 years old.
I am the eldest of 6, my little sister is the same age as my own daughter (6).
My partner (Josh) and I have been together for over 9 years, I was just 16 when we got together!
My playlist consists of a wide variety of music… Ziggy Alberts, The Amity Affliction, Machine Gun Kelly, Russ, Blink 182, Billie Eilish.
I have quite a few tattoos and want quite a few more.
I’m the kind of person that will watch the same movie 10 times out of comfort, rather than pick something new.
I am not a ‘girly’ type of girl (never have been). My wardrobe choices consist of either all black, or neutrals… theres no in between.
I love my own solitude, however since having kids I do also struggle with it.