The Person Behind the Lens

About Mia Lawson

Photographer, storyteller and lover of golden light — based in Sydney, NSW.

Mia Lawson, Lumina Frame Studio Camera close-up
10+ Years
Experience
My Story

A Lifelong Passion for Beautiful Light

I grew up on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, surrounded by the most extraordinary natural light — the kind that dances on the ocean at 5pm and turns everything it touches to gold. From the moment I picked up my mother's old film camera at thirteen, I knew I'd found my language.

After completing a Bachelor of Visual Arts at the University of Sydney, I trained at NCF Studio under renowned portrait photographer Malcolm Oates before establishing my own practice in 2014. Those two years of mentorship gave me a technical foundation that I still draw on every single day.

Today, Lumina Frame Studio is a small, boutique studio built on a single promise: that every client walks away with images they will cherish for generations. I work with a small, hand-picked team so that every session receives my personal attention — from our first conversation right through to the delivery of your final gallery.

When I'm not behind the camera, you'll find me hiking in the Blue Mountains, devouring photobooks at Gleebooks, or attempting (badly) to grow herbs on my Newtown balcony. Photography isn't just what I do — it's how I see the world.

Career Journey

Experience & Background

Over a decade of continuous growth, learning and creative evolution — from student to award-winning professional.

2014 — Present
Founder & Lead Photographer — Lumina Frame Studio, Sydney

Established my independent photography practice, growing from a one-person studio to a boutique agency serving over 500 clients across NSW. Specialising in weddings, portraits, family, maternity, commercial and event photography. Recognised with multiple national and international awards during this period.

2012 — 2014
Associate Photographer — NCF Studio, Surry Hills, Sydney

Trained under celebrated portrait photographer Malcolm Oates at one of Sydney's most respected portrait studios. Developed advanced skills in lighting, posing direction, studio workflow and post-production. Assisted on over 120 client sessions including editorial work for Harper's Bazaar Australia.

2011 — 2012
Photography Intern — The Illawarra Mercury, Wollongong

Immersed in the world of photojournalism, covering local news, sports events and community stories on deadline. Developed sharp instincts for capturing decisive moments — a skill that directly informs my candid wedding and event work today.

2008 — 2012
Bachelor of Visual Arts (Photography Major) — University of Sydney

Completed a four-year degree with First Class Honours, majoring in photography with a minor in art history. Final thesis project — a series documenting the ageing communities of Sydney's inner west — was exhibited at the Verge Gallery and reviewed in the Sydney Morning Herald's arts supplement.

Recognition

Awards & Accolades

Honoured to have my work recognised by some of the photography industry's most respected organisations.

🏆
2016
World's Best Single Image

International Photography Awards (IPA)

🏅
2017
Best Event Photographer — National

Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP)

🎖
2014
Best Fashion Photographer — NSW

Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP)

2019
Wedding Photographer of the Year

Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI)

🌟
2020
Silver Award — Portrait Series

Australian Photographic Prize

🥇
2022
Top 10 Wedding Photographers — Australia

BRIDE Magazine Australia & Easy Weddings

The Studio Team

The People Behind Your Session

Every Lumina Frame session is supported by a small, dedicated team of talented professionals who share my commitment to excellence.

Marvin Bell
Marvin Bell
Photography Assistant

Marvin has been Emma's right hand for five years, managing lighting rigs, second-shooting weddings and ensuring every session runs seamlessly from setup to packdown. His calm presence is invaluable on busy days.

Lora Hampton
Lora Hampton
Hair Stylist

Lora is a Sydney-based hair stylist with over eight years experience in fashion, bridal and editorial work. Available as an add-on for portrait, maternity and wedding sessions, Lora ensures every client looks and feels their absolute best.

Dora Sims
Dora Sims
Makeup Artist

Dora's philosophy is 'makeup that photographs beautifully and lasts all day'. Trained in London and Melbourne, she specialises in natural, photogenic looks that enhance rather than obscure. Available as an add-on for portrait, maternity and bridal sessions.

Let's Work Together

I'd love to hear about your upcoming session, event or wedding. Reach out today — I'm always happy to have a chat.

Book a Session

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