Who is Bruce Peebles?

I’ve been a photographer for over 36 years. I know this dates me, but I certainly haven’t let my age stop me from remaining at the cutting edge of photographic techniques and equipment.

For example, I was the first in Brisbane to get a high-end digital camera (by two weeks),  and only one of two photographers in town with digital for almost eighteen months. I maintain a high-end studio, even though I gave up a larger business eleven years ago.

“I recently had a great experience working with Bruce at a shoot in Montville. It was a hot day and we had to shoot a women’s winter range. Even the model commented how great it was to work with a professional photographer who’s direction would ensure the best possible shots. The images have now been implemented in a range of marketing collateral including national advertising, a website, and point of sale signage. Everyone involved is estatic with the images.” – Clare Treston, Tell Studio

When age is a good thing

In the late 1970’s and early 1980’s I was focusing on architectural photos. With the tremendous growth in Brisbane at the time it was a perfect business. Then, as the market changed, I changed with it. I think that this is one thing that differentiates me from other photographers – I understand marketing and market trends, and I tend to lead the way instead of follow after the crowds.

I’ve tended to go towards markets that require a lot of technical expertise, but where I can also engage with the people involved to produce better shots. I can generally do things technically that other photographers can’t touch, and I love attending to the details that make my clients exclaim, “God, these are fantastic!” These are the super sharp details that give an image dimension without adding unnecessarily to the file size for web-based images. 

By staying ahead of market trends, I have photographed food, hair, automobiles, and a wide range of other products as industry and market needs change. I’ve also worked quite a bit with people – finding just the right lighting or composition to give a strong emotional appeal to the images used by corporate marketing departments that highlight the benefits of their companies.

"His professionalism and willingness to help me were the first things that struck me. It was not a price-driven issue. In fact Bruce puts more into a day than other photographers I know. I have in the past tried to find people who are on the same wavelength as me – and Bruce is one of those people." John Chadwick, Brand Image.

Seeing the Light

More recently, however, I have specialized in Jewellery. Because I have paid so much attention to light and colour, I can more easily capture the nuances and delicate patterns in fine Jewellery than most photographers. I have enough experience now to clearly see the image in my mind before I ever take a shot. 

“Bruce truly knows how to light any situation (not always the case with some professional photographers!!)” – Tim Grey, Lloyd Grey Design

This allows me to work with the lighting until what appears on print is exactly the image I see in my mind. I have learned the precise angles and intensity that will bring out the perfect sparkle and reflect the true, vibrant colours of the original piece.

Smaller is better

Approximately eleven years ago I gave up my larger business to return to an independent lifestyle. Unlike most photographers, however, I didn’t give up the benefits of a larger business. My studio (4km from the CBD) is a dream come true.

My 1500 sq foot studio has all the amenities of a larger studio, but without the disruptions of having multiple projects or photographers in the same building. It’s the little things that count as well. I had one client say to me, “I’d like to get one of your lovely muffins again.” Good hospitality is always a part of the deal.

My studio has a fully integrated computer system, guest kitchen, and is big enough to shoot the interior of a car. Once we even built a fruit and vegetable set in studio for Woolworths. I enjoy creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere, even providing computers and internet access for my clients. I and my clients have the privacy of a small studio with the space and comfort of a larger studio.

“All my experiences have been positive with Bruce Peebles—really and truly! We stick with Bruce when we can because it makes our life easier! Sometimes our clients have preferred photographers we have to work with and we hate it because we know we have to ‘spoon feed’ and art direct every single little thing—the only thing we DON’T have to do for these ‘amateurs’ is push the button on the shutter!!” – Chris Moody, Moody Design

I can also pick up my equipment and meet with my freelance associates and producer in Sydney, Melbourne, or any other location for an on-location shoot. I love the flexibility this kind of arrangement gives me. I still get to work with the best people while being fully accessible to smaller companies and design firms.

Peebles on Colour

I love colour. It can be seductive and soothing, or aggressive and agitating. Sometimes choice of colour comes down to attracting attention, and sometimes it’s about creating a feeling.

I’m constantly seeking to expand my knowledge and understanding of light and colour, making as much use of newer advanced technology as possible. I prefer to use technology to meet my goals instead of having technology use me. This is how I almost routinely produce better than average shots, even surprising my most ardent supporters.

This is my life. It’s what I do very, very well. And, it’s what I love.

Your next step: View my online portfolio. Then, call or E-mail to set up a time to discuss your next project.