natural newborn workshop with renaye mclachlan photography
Attending the Renaye Mclachlan Photography workshop in Melbourne last week was nothing short of inspiring. As a professional family and newborn photographer here in Melbourne, I’ve always believed in the power of continuous learning and growth. Even with over a decade of experience in capturing those precious early moments of life, I’ve never stopped seeking ways to refine my craft and expand my skill set.
Little did I know, by attending Renaye’s workshop I was about to embark on a journey that would not only enhance my technical abilities but also rejuvenate my spirit as an artist.
the space
I stepped into May Creative Space with a blend of excitement and anticipation. Eager to soak up every ounce of knowledge Renaye had to offer. Despite my years of experience in the field, there’s always something new to learn. Especially from someone as talented and respected as Renaye McLachlan.
What struck me most about the workshop was the camaraderie amongst us attendees. From the moment I climbed the stairs into May Creative Space, I was enveloped in a warm and nurturing atmosphere. Surrounded by a diverse group of fellow photographers. All with different experience levels, and each with their own unique style and approach.
Despite technically being each other’s ‘competition’ in the industry, there was an overwhelming sense of support and camaraderie. Being self-employed in a profession where it’s often just me and my camera, working day in and day out behind the lens, it’s easy to feel isolated at times. But surrounded by these inspiring, like-minded women, I felt a renewed sense of community. A reminder that we’re all in this together, striving for the same goal and united by our passion for capturing life’s most precious moments. It was truly uplifting and bolstered my confidence in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
the workshop
Renaye’s teaching style mirrored her photography—gentle, encouraging, and deeply rooted in the authenticity of the moment.
She allowed us the freedom to explore our creativity while still providing invaluable guidance along the way. Emphasizing the importance of connection, allowing the natural flow of interactions to guide our shots.
It was liberating to witness a teaching style that stepped away from rigid posing techniques. Instead Renaye focuses on fostering genuine interactions, resulting in images that felt alive and brimming with emotion. It was a refreshing approach that resonated deeply with me and perfectly complemented my own style and approach to sessions.
Throughout the workshop, Renaye generously shared not only her posing techniques but also her invaluable insights into client preparation, gallery curation, and delivery workflow. And let’s not forget about Clare, Renaye’s sister and a powerhouse of knowledge in her own right. Her tips and tricks added an extra layer of depth to the learning experience. I left with a treasure trove of new ideas to implement in my own practice. In fact I’ve already started incorporating some of these tips into my own workflow.
the experience
If there’s one thing I took away from this workshop, it’s the importance of continuous growth and evolution as an artist. No matter how seasoned we may be, there’s always room to refine our craft. To push the boundaries of our creativity. To be re-inspired and to foster new ways to connect with other creatives and of course our subjects.
If you’re seeking education that goes beyond just posing techniques —a learning experience that’s as enriching as it is empowering— I wholeheartedly recommend Renaye McLachlan Photography. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Her approach not only hones your technical skills but also ignites a newfound appreciation for the art of newborn photography. I left May Creative Space feeling invigorated and inspired, armed with a renewed sense of purpose and a toolkit of techniques to enrich my workflow.
In a world where constant evolution is the key to success, investing in education and upskilling is paramount. Renaye Mclachlan Photography workshop reminded me of the beauty in embracing growth, as well as connecting with and learning from fellow artists. And for that, I am immensely grateful.
