Tyna & Matthew’s Engagement
Some events you photograph for the portfolio. Others you photograph for the paycheck. And then there are those rare gems that remind you exactly why you fell in love with capturing people’s stories in the first place. Tynah and Matthew’s engagement party at the Windy Hill Football Ground function room was absolutely one of those nights – the kind where you find yourself grinning behind your camera and genuinely disappointed when it’s time to pack up.
Let’s start with the venue, because honestly, whoever thought “football ground function room” would translate to “surprisingly perfect party space” deserves some kind of award. The room was perfectly sized – big enough that nobody felt cramped, intimate enough that conversations flowed naturally across the space. The drinks were flowing with that magical balance where everyone’s having a great time but nobody’s making questionable life choices, and the food looked so amazing I may have been slightly distracted from my photography duties on more than one occasion.
But what really impressed me was the staff. You know how some venues treat photographers like furniture that occasionally needs to move around? Not here. Every single staff member was magnificent, ready to help with any question or request, and seemed genuinely invested in making sure the night went off without a hitch. It’s the kind of service that makes my job infinitely easier and the couple’s night infinitely better.
Now, let’s talk about the theme, because Matthew is apparently a voracious reader and they absolutely nailed the book concept. The room was decked out to perfection – think literary elegance meets cozy celebration. Guests were invited to leave messages of support and advice for the future on replica vintage postcards, which is simultaneously adorable and practical (because who doesn’t need relationship advice from Aunty Sue written on charming stationery?).
The entertainment factor was spot-on too. They’d set up a Nintendo Switch attached to the large wall-mounted TV, which kept the kids entertained and, let’s be honest, more than one adult thoroughly engaged. There’s something delightfully refreshing about watching someone’s uncle discover Mario Kart while wearing his best party shirt.
But here’s the thing – all the perfect venues and clever themes in the world can’t save a party if the people aren’t right. And Tynah and Matthew? They have the absolute best family and friends. I’m talking cheerful, fun-loving, genuinely delightful humans who were just a complete hoot to be around. The energy was infectious, the laughter was constant, and everyone seemed genuinely happy to be there celebrating this couple.
At one point during the evening, I was made an “honorary Tasmanian” by one particularly entertaining guest who had a talent for photobombing and somehow managed to appear in significantly more photos than was probably intended. Not that I minded – spontaneous moments like these are pure gold for a photographer, and honestly, the guy was hilarious.
The real kicker came after the event. Upon receiving the link to their photo gallery, I got the most beautiful email from the couple – the kind that makes you remember why you love what you do. Then Tynah knocked me completely off my feet with the Google review she left the following day. I’m talking the kind of review that makes you screenshot it and send it to your mum.
I won’t hide that I REALLY want to be the photographer for their wedding. If their engagement party was this much fun, their wedding is going to be absolutely spectacular.


Looking for a photographer who’ll capture not just your special moments, but the genuine joy and personality that makes them uniquely yours? Whether you’re planning an engagement party, wedding, or any celebration where the people matter as much as the pictures, I’d love to chat about documenting your story. I believe the best photos happen when everyone’s having such a good time they forget the camera’s even there – and judging by Tynah and Matthew’s night, that’s exactly the kind of magic we can create together. Drop me a line and let’s make some beautiful memories!