Brisbane photographer unleashes her creative superpowers with inspiring surroundings and the perfect playlist

One of our most in-demand creators is energetic product and lifestyle photographer Alex O'Callaghan who has been part of the Creatively Squared story from almost the very beginning.

Alex is a highly motivated creative powerhouse who just completed her 65th project with us - in addition to managing her own creative studio and personal branding clients.

Based in Brisbane, Australia, Alex’s work often pays a visual homage to her home in the sunshine state. Her signature aesthetic is fun and feminine, capturing her love of the tropics and ever-positive attitude.

Never one to shy away from a creative challenge, Alex has produced visuals for brands ranging from gut health testing kits (we hope she’s forgiven us for that one!) to cosmetics and beverages.

Find out how Alex has blazed her own creative path and found success as a personal brand and product photographer.

Let’s meet Alex

Hey I’m Alex, a content creator and creative at heart. I started my journey into photography after launching my first online product-based business, it was my own clothing label. But I soon realised that manufacturing and selling clothing was not my true passion. One thing I loved most about that business was the photoshoot!

I loved planning and organising my photoshoots, sourcing locations and models, and managing the creative direction and styling. So I made the decision to close down my first business and pivot into photography and content creation...and I've not looked back since.

Outside of my business I spend my days as a Mum looking after my two kiddos and my cavoodle Clover. I love going on adventures, traveling, drinking coffee and going out for walks in nature with my dog.

My wine of choice is buttery Chardonnay and my fave food is Japanese, I also love a good dance party anytime and anywhere.

My Creatively Squared journey

I found Creatively Squared through Instagram. I remember thinking “Wow! I would love the opportunity to work on BIG BRAND projects!” So I applied on the spot to become a creator and soon after I sent my first campaign. Although I always laugh whenever I think of the first project Creatively Squared sent me, it was a little faux pas, a little awkward and a little strange but I was up for anything!

I specialise in beautiful lifestyle imagery for beauty and skincare, food and drink and homewares, and I love my images bright, airy and filled with colours.

The most enjoyable project I worked on with Creatively Squared was a campaign for Vaseline. I love beauty product shoots where I get to style with fresh ingredients in beautiful home settings.

A sample of Alex’s beautiful flatlays for Vaseline. Source: Creatively Squared

Tools of the trade

I can't live without my Canon camera and speedlight flash as well as Lightroom and Photoshop for post-production.

Some of Alex’s beautifully source interiors for Suntory Tea. Source: Creatively Squared

Whenever I have a photoshoot I have always loved shooting in beautifully styled homes using beautiful fresh ingredients, fresh flowers and ceramic pieces to style with!

I also love hiring locations so you'll often find me shooting in beautiful homes scattered throughout Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast!

A mood board of some of Alex’s stunning interiors she uses for her photoshoots. Source: Alex O'Callaghan

Alex’s creative process

Prior to shooting I do plan the kind of shots I hope to achieve and I always prep my props, however I tend to work intuitively at the moment so I mostly allow the magic to unfold during shooting. On set I like getting help with an assistant, usually in the form of a model.

Every time I need inspiration, I actually love following Creatively Squared for inspo, tips and tricks! I also listen to music whenever I want to get into the creative zone. I have a playlist on Spotify called "All my ladies, show em what you're worth!” It inspires and empowers me every time I listen to it! #femmepower!

A sample of Alex’s client work. Source: Alex O'Callaghan

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Alex’s top creative tip

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! My top tip for creators is hiring locations. I love using beautiful locations to provide the perfect backdrop, they are my superpower!

On location for Smile Direct Club. Source: Creatively Squared

What’s next for Alex?

My goal is to learn how to use studio lighting. At the moment I rely on my speedlight, however I'd like to build my knowledge for different kinds of lighting.

Thank you Alex for sharing your story and championing those of others through your creativity. We are so humbled to be on this creative ride with you and so appreciative of your loyalty to our creator community. To find out more about Alex visit her website and follow her journey on her Instagram @lxocreativestudio. Don’t forget to follow her hashtags #bigheartedbizbabes and #bizbabeswholovepink and be inspired to search for your own empowerment.