Still life photography in Melbourne & why I love it

By Hannah Caldwell – Still Life Photographer Melbourne

There’s a quiet power in objects—shapes, surfaces, shadows—that tell stories without needing words. As a still life photographer based in Melbourne, I’m drawn to this space between product and poetry. For me, still life photography is about noticing the details most people overlook, then shaping light, form, and texture to bring them to life.

Whether I’m photographing curated tableware, sculptural florals, food ingredients, or skincare, my goal is always the same: to create images that feel refined, intentional, and emotionally resonant.

My Approach to Still Life Photography

With a background in fine art and two decades of experience working in commercial photography, my style blends visual clarity with a sense of quiet mood. I work with both natural and studio lighting, depending on the subject and desired tone. Some shoots call for soft, organic light; others benefit from precision and control. Either way, I let the object guide the process.

I’m particularly drawn to textural contrast, negative space, and tonal depth—elements that can elevate even the simplest subjects. Each composition is carefully considered, but I always leave space for instinct. I don’t believe in over-styling. I believe in revealing what’s already there.

Who I Work With

I collaborate with design studios, art directors, and brands who want to tell a story through form. My still life photography portfolio includes:

• Skincare & wellness campaigns (Purely Byron, Endota, Tilley Soaps)

• Food & beverage stills (Fonterra, Brown Brothers Wines)

• Product styling for packaging, social, and e-commerce

• Editorial object studies and creative series

Whether you’re launching a new product or refining your visual brand, I bring a calm, thoughtful energy to each shoot—along with the technical skill to bring your vision to life.

Why Still Life?

Still life photography sits in that beautiful space between commercial and creative. It allows me to explore shape, shadow, and light with intention—and gives brands the kind of timeless visual language that holds up across platforms. In a world full of fast content, still life slows things down. It invites the viewer to pause, to notice, to feel.

If you’re looking for a still life photographer in Melbourne who understands both the artistic and commercial value of an image, I’d love to collaborate.

📩 Get in touch to chat about your next project.