Megan Gill has  been a photographer for more than 25 years. She has a trained eye for posing and can guide anyone in front of her lens to look the best version of themselves. In Megan’s eyes, everyone is photogenic. They just don’t know it yet. In all her portraits you will see an unmistakeable connection each subject has with you the viewer. That is Megan’s super power. Megan is also the creator of the 21 Days of Beauty program which has made a tremendous impact on the Sunshine Coast over the past few years.

Megan, you’ve worked as a photographer for a number of years – what made you decide to pursue this career?

Over the past 3 years I have been fortunate to meet and photograph hundreds of everyday inspiring women. I have created multiple projects that have allowed me to explore the concepts of beauty, confidence, personal power, vulnerability and adversity.
Weaving my photography through my community has given me a sense of purpose and belonging. I have developed a keen understand of what it means to people to be truly seen for who they are.

Can you tell us about the 21 Days of Beauty program and what made you create this amazing annual event?

21 days of real beauty is a unique portrait project. Each year 21 women receive a makeover, customised photo shoot and exhibition experience. The portrait process is not just about pretty photo’s and having your hair done. It reveals the light in which we see ourselves, how we want to be portrayed and how it feels when we shine. Almost everyone who participates experiences a myriad of emotions. Excitement, fear, nerves and ultimately courage. Exhibiting the images is the highlight. All the women feel a sense of community and connection. It’s a wonderful feeling to celebrate and accept ourselves as a collective. Each portrait created is shaping my own legacy.

To empower these women through the art of photography is a gift I am very grateful for. I became a photographer to show people a different way of seeing. Photographing women has inspired me to redefine what real beauty is.

Tell us about some of the highs and challenges you face as a business owner…

My first exhibition stands out as an absolute highlight. The Jaguar showroom was a beautiful backdrop for all the beautiful portraits. The Kitty Kats singing “This is Me”. The emotion is the room was palpable. All the women that thanked me for creating a space for them to feel seen and accepted.

When I am not photographing people, I am usually navigating my business day solo. This can feel isolating at times. This is definitely a challenge I face daily.

What traits and qualities do you admire in a leader?

I like the idea of being surrounded by people “smarter” than me. I consider myself a lifelong student. I want to be inspired by my leaders and those around me. Passion and empathy are great traits I think leaders should have. Passion to inspire. Empathy to hold space for others.

And what’s next on the agenda for Megan Gill?

What’s next. I’m excited to further develop my Portraits Of Mankind series. It is a photographic conversation about what it means to be a man. Comprising of powerful black and white photographs of men in our community that are doing extraordinary things. I will be exhibiting the portraits from this years “Real Beauty” exhibition. I want to support and work with other small business and work with them to help develop online visual presence through imagery.

Most interesting person that you have met?

I love the everyday extraordinary person. Jeanette Allom-Hill is one such person. She is fierce and strong, kind and soft all at the same time. A true leader.

Coast or City and why?

Coast. I feel very lucky to be able to live here on the Sunshine Coast. I have 2 teenagers who love the beach and they have a sense of freedom here that they would never have in the city.

Favourite movie and why?

The secret life of Walter Mitty. The obsession with capturing the moment. The adventure that photography can take you on. One of my favourite quotes “To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other and to feel. That is the purpose of life”.

To find out more about Megan head to:

Website
https://www.megangillportrait.com/

Facebook
@megangillphotography