Biography
Gayle Clearwater
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/Biography
About Me.

I am pictured with my grandfathers bellow camera, which I loved playing with as a young girl.
I LOVE to empower women to feel strong and beautiful in the skin they are in!
I have always felt a pull towards photography, ever since I was a young girl. I was often found playing with my Grandad’s bellows camera (Seen in the above images). Which was my inspiration into pursuing it as a career.
Since then, I have graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Visual Arts, majoring in photography. As well as successfully converting space on my lifestyle block into a self-sustained Private Photography Studio in 2020. Which, I find, creates a warm friendly atmosphere that my clients absolutely love. As its perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and allows space and privacy to find a unique experience for every client and ability to tailor the shoot to suit their requirements. Ideal for Boudoir Portraits which are my specialty!
As well as running my own Studio I also Tutor Photography at SIT. Seeing the upcoming talent of my students and watching them excel really ignites my passion for photography and connecting with people.
I strongly connect with the following quote by Alice Walker:
“Whenever you are creating beauty around you, you are restoring your soul”
Being able to capture someone’s empowering moment is incredibly rewarding and I am honoured to play a part of the process.
Education & Awards
2026
Asia Pacific Photography Awards
Highly commended - Portrait, Black & White and Maternity Categories. Top 20 Finalist and 9th in Maternity Category.
2020
SIT - Excellence in Photography
Robert Ferrari Excellence in Photography
2020
Southland Arts Society
People's Choice Award - Majestic Evolution
2019
Craig's Design & Print Award
Craig's Design & Print Award - Outstanding Student Bachelor of Visual Art level 6
2018- 2020
Degree - Bachelor of Visual Arts
Southern Institute of Technology
Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts, specializing in photography, marks a significant milestone in my creative journey. This program has equipped me with essential skills and a deep understanding of visual through the lens. I am excited to apply my knowledge and passion for photography to explore new artistic horizons and share unique perspectives with the world.
2010
Kodak Gold Awards
Wedding Category
1999
Night Classes - SIT
Black & White Photography. Learning developing of black and white film and printing in the darkroom.
