From professional nanny in the UK to taking professional photos in Hong Kong: LOUISE MACHIN gives us a snapshot of a career of two parts. Plus shares the secret behind her fantastic family photos, what it’s like inside her photography studio in Hong Kong and her favourite overseas spot for taking photos.
Where are you from and what brought you to Hong Kong?
I’m from a village in Essex called Epping. We came to Hong Kong in 2017 because my husband Lee was spending most of his time here with his job with HSBC, so it made sense for us to move.
What made you switch from a career in child care to taking professional photos?
I’d always had an interest in photography, but having worked long hours as a Nanny in London, when I had my children (Isla and Dexter, now 10 and 8) it made sense to move into photography professionally so I could work my hours around the kids. I’d devoted many years to other people’s children and wanted the same for my own!
How does that background help with your family photo shoots?
My childcare background helps me put both the parents and children in photo sessions at ease. As a parent, we all naturally panic about whether our children are going to be as chilled as possible and want to take part. I try to make my sessions fun for all, and even if some children are a bit nervous I have many tried and tested techniques to bring the best out in them and get those gorgeous smiles.
Tell us a bit about your photography studio in Hong Kong and equipment.
It’s based in my home in Discovery Bay, but I split my time 50/50 between my photography studio in Hong Kong and outdoor work. One of my favourite sessions is a leaving shoot as you get to really explore Hong Kong. I use a Nikon Z7ii camera and Godox lights in the studio.
Anything you can share from a particularly memorable family photo shoot?
I was honoured to be asked to capture a lovely lady shaving her hair off just before her chemotherapy; the whole family took part and it was very moving.
How would you describe your photography style?
Very classic – often on a white background, which I feel gives a very timeless look. Generally, a big family shoot isn’t something most families do each year so I think you want to have something that won’t date and you can leave on your walls for years to come. I personally still have my children’s newborn photos up on my walls.
I also like to explore new ideas, and over the years my styles and tastes have changed.
What’s the most photographic place you’ve travelled to?
My favourite place to shoot is Vietnam, particularly Hoi An – the colours, lights and people are all just stunning, along with the amazing sunsets on the beach.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Hiking is my big passion and my children also love it. When I have a weekend off, we will often hike from DB to Pui O for an afternoon on the beach.
What do you like about your Discovery Bay neighbourhood?
It’s not for everyone but I just adore how many different hiking trails we have in DB and that my children are outside so much. Their friends are nearby as they go to a local school. Over the years, we’ve made so many friends here who I would now call family. When you don’t have actual family nearby, it’s so important to have people around you that you know will support you.
What are you looking forward to in the second half of 2024?
We had to cancel a trip to Lapland for my 40th, so we’re heading there this December and then going to the UK for Christmas – the first time in eight years. My children are counting down the days already.
Find out more about Louise’s work at facebook.com/LouiseMachinPhotographyHK
This article about taking family photos and professional photos in Hong Kong or in her photography studio in Hong Kong first appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.