Sophia is a photographer whose work is defined by clarity, intimacy, and narrative. Born in Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa, and now based in Sydney, she has collaborated with brands from Maggie Marilyn and Kowtow to MISE and Birkenstock, as well as emerging fashion and lifestyle labels. In 2024, she self-published Ciao, a visual love letter to her solo travels across Italy, capturing fleeting moments of reflection, movement, and quiet discovery.

To begin, could you share a little about your journey into photography? 

I have always been a very curious person and photography is a great way to explore that. My dad had a Canon at home and I started taking pictures of everything, totally fascinated with being able to capture what I saw. At 16 I began modeling and taking photos of friends and family, and I realised I could shoot models from my own agency - it all started there.. 

How would you describe your photography style? 

Unguarded perhaps? I try to make my shoots as relaxed and enjoyable as possible and create a connection that comes across on camera. 

Your portfolio spans such a range of people and brands, from fashion to lifestyle and beauty. What draws you to a project, and how do you find your creative rhythm across these different worlds?

I think at the end of the day, I am capturing something beautiful or interesting to me, whether it is food or fashion or skincare. I just want to feel some connection to the project, and that may come from who is involved or what I am photographing or where I am photographing it. 

Last year you released your debut book Ciao, an ode to your solo time spent in Italy. What was it about this experience that led you to create the book? 

Me talking about my time in Italy is now a meme for people who know me because I bring it up constantly. This was such a special trip for me. I went by myself at 25 for four weeks and saw Rome, Tuscany, Sicily and Ischia. I had never been by myself for so long, let alone by myself and so far from home, but I hardly felt lonely. The sense of freedom was incredible and I felt so connected to where I was. I wanted to document the feeling of warmth and connection I feel to Italy, as well as capture the spontaneity and freedom of solo travel. The fresh perspectives that distance brings never cease to amaze and inspire me. I also wanted to capture my trip because I was proud of myself - I worked, saved and planned that by myself, and it went swimmingly. 

You’ve since returned to Italy, what continues to draw you back? 

I got made redundant at the end of last year and had been craving a return to Rome so deeply, I decided to take a portion of the payout and make another trip by myself. This time I went in the middle of winter to Rome, Milan and Venice, and it was another kind of magical. There is just so much to explore in Italy, and every region is so unique. Italy to me is both chaos and calm, and romance and magic. There is an importance placed on quality ingredients and simple cooking, good wine and family that I appreciate, and I will be drawn back time and time again.  

Your imagery always feels effortless yet intimate. What is your process for capturing that balance?

Thank you. I feel like all my shoots are quite relaxed. I like to connect with the model and make sure they feel comfortable and confident. Yes, it’s work, and everyone has a job to do, but if I can make that job feel easier and pleasurable for everyone, then I will always try to. 

Who or what is inspiring you right now? 

I just got the Sofia Coppola archives. I love how she captures these raw moments. Unguarded and effortless. Also, Flamingo Estates book ‘The Guide to Becoming Alive’, reminds us to wake up our senses and seek out pleasure. I just love Richard Christiansen's view on life and the natural world.  

With the busy pace of photoshoots and travel, how do you carve out space for yourself? Are there any rituals or beauty habits that help you reset between projects?

I try to swim in the sea every day (in warmer months). I live right by Tamarama and Bondi, so we often walk down for a morning dip. Treating my skin to the Triple Active Body Milk after the post-swim shower always feels amazing. I also read a lot, morning, afternoon, and night. It is one of my greatest pleasures and calms my brain. 

Which Tronque product do you find yourself using most often, and what makes it a standout in your routine?

The Triple Active Body Milk and the Firming Butter. My skin constantly craves hydration from all the trips to the sea. 

And lastly, if you could photograph anyone (past or present), who would it be, and what kind of story would you want to tell through that image?

The first person that came to mind is young Brooke Shields. Or Jane Goodall and the Chimps, she represents a connection to nature I feel we really lack now, and this would have been something incredible to capture. Two women who couldn’t be more different, but both have shaped culture in quiet, powerful ways.

Quickfire questions: 

Favourite self-care indulgence when you need a reset?

A slow morning. 

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? 

I am not sure of the best I have ever been given. But I read this in the Flamingo Estate book and it has really stuck with me, “Wake up early. Drink water. Sip wine. Take care of each other and the earth. Eat well. Eat everything. Move your body. Calm down. Be grateful”. Life is short. It’s not that deep, make the most of it and enjoy yourself. 

One podcast you’re loving right now?

Do You F*cking Mind, always. 

If you could teleport anywhere for a weekend, where would you go?

Rome. 

Last song you had on repeat?

Ode to the Mets, The Strokes.