Byron Bay. A place where the waves roll in like slow-moving jazz, the air hums with the scent of eucalyptus and espresso, and the people? Well, they know how to capture a moment. Not just any moment—moments steeped in nostalgia, in salt and sun, in stories that linger like the last light of a long summer’s day. This isn’t just a town of picture-takers; it’s a town of film photographers, the kind who keep it raw, unfiltered, and dripping in the good stuff. Here are the local legends you should know.
These are the film shooters of Byron Bay—the ones who see the world a little differently and capture it in a way that makes you feel something. Whether you’re after a portrait, a wedding, a sun-drenched surf session, or just some good old-fashioned nostalgia, this crew has got you covered.
Featured photographers: Natalie McComas, Martynas Katauskas, Holly May, Tom Paterson, Tirion Eilir Haf (aka Chick with Orange Brick), Paula May, Ebony Morris, Brydie Watson, Rachel Gray, Nic Munnelly.
Natalie McComas
Documentary
Natalie McComas grew up on the east coast of NSW, spending her high school lunchtimes in the darkroom, watching images appear like magic on paper. Two decades later, she’s still chasing that magic, working with national and international clients as a lifestyle, commercial, and documentary photographer. Her documentary work has been recognized by the Moran Photographic Prize, The Leica/CCP Documentary Award, and VSCO’s Artist Initiative. Now based on Bundjalung Country in Northern NSW, Natalie draws inspiration from the wild landscapes around her, using her lens to foster appreciation—and a sense of responsibility—for Australia’s natural beauty.
Martynas Katauskas
Film / 35mm
Martynas takes the kind of photos you wish you had in a photobook—the ones your grandkids will look at, thinking, “Damn, you were cool.” Portraits, street photography, life captured in a single frame—raw, real, and unshaken. Known in the Lomography community as @duffman, his work is all about authenticity, connection, and storytelling.
Holly May
35mm film
Holly’s photos feel like the salt on your skin after a long day in the surf—sunshine, freckles, and sand-covered toes. Specializing in 35mm film, she captures lifestyle and portrait images with a touch of nostalgia, offering sessions in Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. You can also grab prints of her dreamy work.
Tom Paterson
Brand & Travel
Tom can shoot anything—and shoot it well. Portraits, weddings, spaghetti on a plate, Japanese construction workers stretching, fashion shows, music festival dance floors—you name it. Originally from New Zealand and now based in Byron, Tom’s worked with Marc Jacobs, Spell, Country Road, Billabong, Pandora, and more.
Ebony Morris
Family & Motherhood
Ebony captures fleeting magic—the golden hour glow, the way wildflowers dance in the wind, the quiet power of motherhood. A photographer, creative director, and doula-in-training, she works with 35mm film and Super 8, crafting images that are both intimate and timeless.
Rachel Gray
lovers and families
Bright, poppy, full of fun—Rachel’s photos are like the best parts of love bottled up and put on film. She calls herself the “not so wedding” wedding photographer, capturing camera-shy lovers and families with raw honesty. No filters. No presets. Just real, beautiful moments.
