Lauren Murphy

Gun photographer, Lauren Murphy has many Gippslandia covers & features to her name.

Lauren is a Gippsland-based freelance photographer exploring the uniqueness of people’s stories.

Her photography studio specialises in compelling, authentic portrait and documentary-style imagery for people and brands across Gippsland, Melbourne and beyond. Lauren has also been a staff photographer at the Warragul and Drouin Gazette for five years.

Her previous career as a social worker with refugees has greatly influenced her work and focus on valuing diversity, social advocacy with a sense of optimism. Her favourite medium to work with is medium format.

Gippslandia: What do you love about being based in Gippsland?

Lauren Murphy: I’m an introvert that has always found my recharge in nature. Living and working in Gippsland lets me take my work to beautiful locations away from traffic lights. I feel I have the best of both worlds: diverse landscapes to enjoy, yet I can still get into Melbourne and enjoy music gigs in just over an hour.

Why do you support Gippslandia?

It’s creating an avenue for progressive voices and ideas with beautiful design. Gippslandia is really helping bring people together to collaborate, build capacity and showcase just how much this region has to offer.

What is your favourite piece that you’ve worked on for Gippslandia?

Can I say the current one I’m working on? I love any contribution that I have made, but I’m excited about developing this current piece.

What does a successful and supportive community look like to you?

A supportive community is one that values a diversity of culture and ideas. It finds its success in remembering its history but is not afraid to take new paths. It is one that encourages social gatherings, celebrations and coming together. It hears everyone’s voices and gives opportunities to let them be expressed.

Hot tip! How can visitors have the best time in our region?

Enjoying Gippsland is about slowing down and switching off. Make your playlist, turn off socials, pack a picnic and hit the road.

Make a point of stopping in little towns and picking up some local goods, there is so much high-quality produce and wine around. Finding water is a must! Whether it’s floating down a river on inflatables or hitting the surf – get fresh. Oh, and watch a sunrise sitting on the 90 Mile Beach!