Geebung resident Laurie McDonnell has claimed one of this year’s Lord Mayor’s Photographic Awards.
His image, Colours of the City, was selected for the Brisbane Postcards Collection, one of three photographs chosen under this year’s Everyday Brisbane theme.
Laurie said he was excited his photo had been selected as a winner.
“I take photos as a hobby rather than a profession, but I do always try and improve, so having a win like this is very encouraging,” he said.
Colours of the City, taken with a drone, features the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge during Brisbane Festival.
“The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge was already a part of Brisbane that I thought was a great subject for photos,” Laurie said. “When I heard about the Brisbane Festival decorations, I wanted to get out and capture some new photos because I thought it would be such a cool pop of colour against the city.
“For the morning I went out, I was fortunate enough that it was really clear, so the sunrise colours started reflecting beautifully off the buildings with the blue hour light still in the background and combined with the bridge, I thought it all went together so well.”
Laurie, who was also shortlisted as a finalist for the People’s Choice Award last year, will receive a cash prize of $500 and his image will be printed as a postcard and sold exclusively at the Museum of Brisbane.
From Mobile Phones to Award-Winning Drone Photography
Laurie said improvements in mobile phone cameras first sparked his interest in photography, which grew after his wife gave him a gift certificate for a mobile phone photography course in 2020. He later received a drone at the end of 2023.
“Once I had the drone, I really wanted to get better, so the last two and a half years has been my journey trying to teach myself whatever I can about photography,” he said.
“Currently I am working only with my phone and drone and this award is making me think it is time I consider getting a real camera!”
Closer to home, Laurie enjoys photographing birds and wallabies at 7th Brigade Park and Milne Hill Reserve.
“A little further north, Cabbage Tree Creek and Pine River are amazing for some sunset shots, and Boondall Wetlands and Tinchi Tamba Wetlands are also really great for wildlife and beautiful green spaces as well,” he said.
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