Oh, hey! I’m Ali,
AKA Smith + Archer.
Born in the Western District. Raised on our family farm near Ballarat. Now living in the Macedon Ranges with a little holiday house on the Geelong Surf Coast. That’s my little constellation, and it's safe to say that the country is very firmly planted in my heart. Um – I even have an honours degree in Agricultural Science!
All of this to say: it's no surprise that I’m a huge fan of a rural wedding.
I don’t know about you, but having my picture taken isn’t something that comes naturally to me. I’m not one to pop a hand on my hip and pose artfully; I’m more likely to be the one who is a bit awkward and captured mid-laugh ( um, hello double chin), with a champagne glass halfway to my lips.
But you know what? They’re the photos that I love the most—the ones where I’m truly myself—unscripted, unprompted, unposed. I probably don’t remember what I was laughing at, but I certainly remember that I was having a great time.
In a nutshell, that's my entire philosophy when photographing weddings: creating beautiful memories where you genuinely see yourselves. Nothing forced and nothing awkward, just the two of you, having a damn good time at your love party.
But wait, there is more...
I do SO much more than capture your day; I'll be your biggest cheerleader on your wedding journey because your wedding should be about what you want. From suggesting other rad vendors to helping put together your all-important timeline to being a calm presence on your wedding day: I'll be there helping you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked
Questions
How would you describe your photographic style?
My style is a combination of lifestyle and documentary photography, which essentially means that I like to take more candid and fewer posed photos of you and your guests. I have a sprinkle of whimsical thrown in for good measure; I love photos that have both light and shadows, blur and grain — warm and rich. Shot lists are not my thing either; the most amazing moments will unfold naturally.
Posing for portraits makes us feel icky – are you going to make us do ‘portrait time?
As someone who HATES having her photo taken, I completely understand why you might not be super keen on portraits, but you can relax - I’ve got you! I’m not about having a zillion portraits on the day, and I have a few tricks up my sleeve to make portrait time relaxing.
Portraits are not about how you look but about how you feel, too. They are an amazing time for connection, space and quiet; that’s where the true magic happens. Having that time to drink each other in and catch your breath is why portrait time is one of my favourite moments to capture on your day. It will be a mini-break from your love party that you don’t realise you need until you're in the moment.
I’ll do some very light directing to help you feel relaxed, but I won't pose you, and you can definitely bring some beers and bubbles, too.
Do you have any vendors you recommend?
I sure do, let me know which vendor(s) you're looking for, and I will hook you up!
Where are you based? How far will you travel?
I live in Riddells Creek, in the beautiful Macedon Ranges.
I LOVE to travel for weddings, so if you’re getting married in the Macedon Ranges — or even Ballarat, Geelong, Hamilton, Bendigo, Echuca, Bright or Warrnambool (anywhere in this gorgeous state, actually). I’m always up for discussing ALL the possibilities. There may be additional costs like travel time or accommodation. Let’s chat!
Do we have to feed you?
Yes, please, that would be nice, especially if I am staying over lunch/dinner. I won't be photographing you or your guest while you eat (because eating photos are never flattering!), so that’s the best time for me to eat too, and will fuel me up nicely for the dance floor shenanigans! I'm pretty easy to feed, I don't have any dietary requirements, and to be honest, I’ll just be stoked that I don't have to cook a meal.
We're private people and would prefer that you don't share any images from our day.
That’s absolutely fine – I won't share any of your photos on my social media accounts or my website and blog.
Do you photograph same sex weddings?
FUCK yeah!
Get in touch, and
let’s chat weddings!
