Hi, I’m Kirsty Joy (KJ) an award-winning photographer, creative storyteller, Sony Advocate, and lifelong believer in the power of a good coffee.
My photography is centred around people and the stories that make them who they are. From weddings and portraits to personal branding, sport and community, I love creating imagery that feels authentic, emotive and full of connection.
With a background in psychology, coaching and working alongside women and young people, I bring more than just a camera to my work. I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel comfortable, confident and seen, whether that’s empowering a woman in front of the camera, capturing the raw emotion of an athlete, or telling the story of the people behind a community.
My love of photography began back in the ’90s with my mum’s Olympus OM-10, when I was regularly told off for getting through rolls of film faster than they could be developed. That curiosity never really left.
Photography has taught me to notice the things that are easy to miss, the fleeting expressions, quiet connections, strength, vulnerability and beautifully imperfect moments in between.
What is in your camera bag?
Sony Alpha 7 IV (x2)
Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM
Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM
Sony FE 50mm Macro F2.8
Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM
Sony E 11mm F1.8
Sony 1.4X Teleconverter
Sony HVL-F60RM2 (x2)
Countless SD cards & ND filters
Dual holster & tripod
What is your go to in your Alpha kit and why?
My Sony Alpha 7 IV and FE 50mm F1.4 GM for portraiture. This is my favourite camera and lens combination as it creates beautiful crisp images with dreamy depth of field.
Most memorable moment shooting with Alpha?
I think one shoot that will stay with me for years to come is Joy's family session. It was a true testament to the value of photographs and a powerful reminder of why I love what I do.
I was contacted by Joy's daughter when she learned her mum was no longer in remission and they wanted to capture some much-needed heartfelt memories. After a few reschedules due to COVID, sickness, and bad weather, I was finally able to photograph Joy and her family at the start of November 2022 on her local beach.
As I was looking through my camera's viewfinder at this wonderfully strong woman and her family, I knew that I was sharing in something sacred. I felt so honoured to be there capturing these precious moments.
I ended up recording some video between each shot because I wanted Joy's family to hear her laughter and voice as well.
Joy has since passed and I know the photos we captured that day will be forever treasured.