People travel the world to see parts of Sydney, and especially the Opera House. Yes, it’s iconic, and it’s the architecture, the world class performances, the food and drink locations, and the Harbour, and the view of the bridge.

Arrive at them in any season, at any time of day, and find something immediately engaging (good choice of word). Arrive at the Sydney Opera House in the late afternoon, when the sun is sinking low over the harbour and the light turns that particular shade of amber that only autumn in Sydney can produce – and, as a photographer, *chef’s kiss*.

Hugh and Miri chose late a late autumnal afternoon, for their Sydney Opera House sunset engagement session.
Hugh is quiet, thoughtful with a knowing sense of humour. Miri is vivacious, fun and chatty. A great combination to work with.

We started simply. A stroll around the forecourt, a few easy moments together, no pressure to perform. And slowly, the way it always does, something shifts. A hesitancy in front of the camera becomes something more reassured. Quiet conversation turns into a thoughtful series that reflects their character. The warmth of the evening, lengthening shadows, deepening colours, departing crowds, helped the photography session flow.

By the time the sun began its descent behind the city skyline, it’s almost like Hugh and Miri had forgotten that I was there. That’s a moment to wait for – when couples are themselves and the observer is gifted naturalness.

We wandered and explored little corners of one of the world’s most recognisable buildings, that somehow felt intimate and quiet.

When an engagement session really works, it’s an exploration for a couple, of who they are despite the gaze of another, or others. That can be intimidating. Once past shyness, reticence or even the weirdness of what it means to be photographed, it starts to be authentic.

Beautiful images are lovely – but authenticity carries the moment. It’s two people remembering they’re together. And at that time, they’re away from the noise of planning and organising and everything else that comes with getting married. It’s a moment that belongs to them… in front of one of the most famous locations in the world. Why? It works.