Personal one - Alexandrena parker interview
Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your journey as a photographer? My name is Alexandrena Parker (yes, it is a bit of a mouthful) and I am a commercial advertising photographer focusing on lifestyle imagery. I’m based in Melbourne but work equally in both Melbourne and Sydney, and I’m represented by Photoplay in Sydney. I’ve been a photographer for 13 years, and the journey so far has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, never easy, always challenging, but very rewarding.
I studied a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in commercial photography, at RMIT from 2008 to 2010. In my second year I assisted US portrait photographer Christian Witkin during his time in Australia and later spent a few months working in his New York studio. That gave me an invaluable look into the industry at the very top and also a clear picture of how hard it would be to make my way. In my final year I made a strategic decision to focus on a specific niche, kids’ fashion and lifestyle, as a way to stand out in a saturated market.
I was born with cystic fibrosis, a life-threatening disease that has always added pressure and challenges to my career. In my early twenties my health was declining, so I went back to study a diploma in middle years education to give myself financial stability through teaching. A few years later everything shifted when my grandfather helped me access life-saving medication from the US. My health improved dramatically, and I suddenly had the time and energy to throw myself back into photography. I kept testing and creating my own work until, at 24, I signed with my first agent. That moment really marked the beginning of my career as it is today, and ever since then I have been shooting commercial work full time.
“ If you keep taking photos of the things you love, then no matter how much the industry shifts, you’ll always have that anchor
How would you describe your style or approach to photography? I’d describe my style as cinematic and nostalgic, with a focus on the beauty of everyday life. I’m drawn to rich colour, warm light and textures that make images feel lived-in yet elevated. My approach is about building trust so the people I photograph come across as authentic and real, whether it’s a commercial brief or a personal story. I’m inspired by memory, suburban Australia and those universal moments that feel both intimate and iconic. At its heart, my photography is about noticing small details and framing them in a way that feels timeless and contemporary.What does it mean to you personally to be part of this collective exhibition? For me, being part of this exhibition is about photographers coming together to support each other. It’s a small industry and while it can be competitive, I think building community makes us stronger and better off.
What do you hope audiences will take away from experiencing your work here? I don’t take myself too seriously, so I hope audiences can simply enjoy a small slice of work that reflects my passion for the craft. •
How do you see the photography scene today, especially with younger generations coming through? I’m a glass-half-full kind of person, and I try to keep that perspective in an industry that can sometimes feel a bit doom and gloom. It’s true it’s not like the glory days of the 80s and 90s, but it’s still an exciting time. The scene is changing quickly, and I think those who are open to adapting will thrive, while those who only complain about change will fall behind. Of course, I don’t always want it to change either, so I try to stay informed and educated while keeping my passion for photography at the centre. If you keep taking photos of the things you love, then no matter how much the industry shifts, you’ll always have that anchor.
“ I’ve always been interested in capturing authentic moments and a sense of connection
What projects have you been working on recently (If you can tell)? Over the past 18 months I’ve been focused on developing my visual voice and building a portfolio that leans more into lifestyle and adult subjects rather than just kids. I’ve also been exploring the motion side of my practice, telling narratives and making short films. I’ve just wrapped up a big stint of personal work, so right now I’m in a season of reflecting, recharging and looking for the next projects to dive into.
Is there a future project you’re particularly excited about and would like to share? Yes, I’m really excited about spending five months in Europe with my family next year. It feels like a bucket list opportunity, and I’m looking forward to collaborating with new talent, connecting with other creatives and working in inspiring new locations.
Looking back, is there a past project you consider a milestone or turning point in your career? Yes, at the end of 2024 I wrote, produced and directed my first short film, which was a huge milestone as I had never taken on a project like that before. The film went on to screen at several Oscar-qualifying festivals around the world and has opened many doors for my career. I can’t share details just yet, but I’m excited about what the future might bring.
How has your photography evolved from when you first started until today? There have been big changes and a lot of growth since I first started, but at the core the sentiment of my imagery is still the same. I’ve always been interested in capturing authentic moments and a sense of connection. Over time my work has evolved into more lifestyle-focused imagery and a much broader range of briefs. I’m now bringing that same sensibility into larger commercial campaigns and even motion projects, while still staying true to the feeling that first drew me to photography.
What inspires you right now—whether in photography or beyond? Right now I’m inspired by my daughter and the experience of watching her grow up. Youth and childhood continue to fascinate me and often spark ideas in my work. I’m also very inspired by what I see at indie film festivals. They feel like a testing ground for new ideas, where filmmakers push boundaries beyond the big-budget blockbusters we usually see on streaming platforms or in cinemas.
What equipment are you currently using, and why? I currently shoot on a Canon R5, mostly because it’s what I own and what I know well. To be honest, I’m not particularly interested in cameras or gear... my eyes tend to glaze over when people start talking tech. For me, the equipment is just a tool to capture what really matters, which is the story, the light and the people in front of me. Is there a photographer, work, or experience that has been especially influential in your path? Tamara Dean has been especially influential for me. She is such a prolific Australian photographic artist, and I’ve always admired her ability to tell stories and connect with people through the medium of photography. Her work has been a reminder of how powerful photography can be when it’s rooted in both beauty and meaning.
What advice would you give to amateur photographers visiting the exhibition? My advice would be to always prioritise personal work. It’s your biggest secret weapon and a window into what’s in your head and heart. That’s also your most powerful marketing tool, because it shows the world what only you can see.
If you want to see more, here is Alexandrena's web.
See below Alexandrena's image for the exhibition. Personal ONE was designed to celebrate Australian Photographers and to bring together an industry which often works apart, the exhibition features over 90 artists and sells prints at an affordable price to raise money for the wonderful local Sydney charity OZ Harvest. If you want to purchase this print, click here Thanks for being part of personal one.
