Rooted in the vast, open landscapes of rural South Australia, Karen Waller is a photographic artist whose work gracefully bridges painting and photography, emotion and observation, darkness and light. With a background in visual arts—first in painting and drawing, later in photography—Karen brings a painter’s sensitivity to her photographic lens. Her images, whether portraits or landscapes, are deeply human, often exploring the delicate interplay between strength and vulnerability, presence and absence, time and transformation.
From her evocative portraits that capture raw emotion, to her moody, immersive landscapes and recent explorations in aerial photography, Karen invites viewers to see beyond the surface. Drawing inspiration from her childhood spent close to nature, she continues to revisit and reinterpret the salt lakes of Yorke Peninsula, revealing overlooked beauty in the everyday.
In this interview, Karen shares the path that led her from brush to camera, her artistic values, and the quiet power of paying attention to the world around us.
What is Lens Stories?
Photography is more than a click of the shutter—it’s an act of storytelling, a way to hold onto emotion, memory, and meaning. Behind every photo lies a distinct point of view, shaped by the photographer’s background, curiosity, and creative instincts. With “Lens Stories”, CYME celebrates those who see the extraordinary in the ordinary and translate it into powerful visual narratives. We step into their world, uncovering what drives their art and how they bring their vision to life. As developers of thoughtful tools for photographers, we are committed to supporting those who use their lens not just to document life, but to interpret it—one frame at a time.
Karen Waller’s Story: Merging Mediums for a New Artistic Vision
My artistic journey began in childhood when my drawing ability was recognised and nurtured by my family. Attending seven primary schools in rural South Australia due to my father’s job relocations greatly influenced my early creative experiences. These unique country towns offered opportunities to engage with and explore nature, deepening my appreciation for the natural world during the 1970s, a period characterized by a sense of freedom and independence in childhood.
Regarding my passion for photography, I view this trajectory as an evolving continuum throughout my life, driven by an intrinsic need and desire to create. I pursued a degree in visual arts, concentrating on painting and drawing. Although there was a brief encounter with photography during this course—using the darkroom and creating a pinhole camera—it was painting that truly captivated me. Years later, access to a Polaroid Camera reignited my interest in photography, particularly due to the instant images characterized by their imperfections. The ability to manipulate the image surface before it appeared bridged my interests between painting and photography, leading me down a new creative path. Eventually, the need for greater control over my imagery prompted me to acquire an SLR Camera, further my studies, and establish a darkroom.
The advent of digital photography has allowed me to reconnect with painterly images through both editing and camera techniques. Editing with a Wacom tablet and pen feels intuitively akin to painting or drawing, effectively blurring the lines between these disciplines for me. My identity is deeply intertwined with the act of creating, and I cannot envisage a life devoid of this passion, which brings both profound challenges and immense joy.
From Portraits to Landscapes: A Unified Vision of Photography
My approach to photography involves continuous exploration and the pursuit of new discoveries. I consistently strive to push the boundaries of my creativity, aiming to take viewers beyond the surface of my subjects and introduce them to perspectives they may not have previously encountered. This includes uncovering fresh ways of perceiving familiar scenes, as well as finding beauty in imperfections and capturing the passage of time. I frequently employ the techniques of long exposure photography and Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) to effectively capture the passage of time within a single image.
I am committed to uncovering the stories behind my subjects, which is particularly evident in my portrait work where I delve into themes such as resilience, aging, identity, and mental health. My method for portraiture entails spending significant time with my subjects to truly understand their unique stories. I approach each session with the belief that everyone has a narrative worth sharing.
My photographic repertoire spans various genres including portrait, landscape, nature, and aerial photography. My consistent approach across these genres is to invest time in getting to know the subject intimately. For instance, my images of the salt lakes on Yorke Peninsula capture their ever-changing nature throughout the seasons and rainfall variations. Familiarity with these locations allows me to determine the optimal times for photography. In essence, repetition plays a crucial role in my approach.
My photographic style is characterised by a painterly, moody, and atmospheric quality. I capture images that span from representational to abstract, encompassing all the subtle nuances in between. The core of my work involves seeking the most effective method to convey the story of a place or person and determining how to best communicate that concept.
Do you like Karen's story?
5 Lessons Karen Waller Learned From a Life Behind the Camera
Comparison can be unhelpful
Instead of comparing yourself or your work to others, focus on doing what you love. Be inspired by other photographers’ work without making comparisons. Find your own unique creative voice.
Perseverance brings inspiration
Creativity involves commitment, with inspiration often arising from that commitment. Continuously refine your ideas until they are successful or resolved.
Progress through bold mistakes
To develop as an artist or photographer, be willing to take risks and accept mistakes. Breakthroughs can occur through new discoveries, even if the resulting image is not successful.
Create with all your senses
Engage fully in the process and stay present. When working in nature or landscapes, use all your senses for a more immersive experience.
Act decisively
Avoid procrastination and excuses. Take your camera and start capturing images. Focus on subjects that inspire you.
Tenuous Moments Through the Eyes of Photographer Karen Waller
The photograph I would select is titled “Tenuous”. The reasons for this choice stem from its narrative, which aligns with the themes I explore concerning the human experience and condition. It reflects on how we live our lives and contemplate them as we age. Additionally, it illustrates my deep connection to nature by honouring the brief life of the tiny bird. This image highlights the value of life, underscoring its transient and delicate nature.
4 Foundational Tips from Karen Waller to Elevate Your Photography
Learn the visual language
Understanding the importance of composition is crucial in telling your story through photography. Composition isn’t just about placing elements in the frame; it’s about guiding the viewer’s eye through the image and creating a sense of balance and harmony. Study different compositional techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing to enhance your storytelling.
Creativity over camera gear
Don’t get caught up in the idea that good images can only be achieved by having expensive equipment. Your perspective and creative vision are the most important considerations in photography. It’s how you interpret the world around you that makes your work unique. Focus on honing your skills and creatively using the equipment you have, rather than constantly seeking the latest gear.
Connect with other creatives
Find supportive creatives who will inspire and encourage you. Engaging with fellow photographers, either online or in person, can provide valuable feedback, new ideas, and a sense of community. Collaborating with others can also open opportunities for projects and exhibitions, enriching your artistic journey.
Keep it simple
It’s tempting to overcomplicate our work with too many elements or techniques. However, simplicity in imagery can often be a powerful tool. Stripping an image down to its essential components can create a stronger visual impact and convey your message more clearly.
Show Your Support for Portrait and Landscape Photographer Karen Waller
Come celebrate the poetic and powerful work of photographer Karen Waller on Instagram. Her images explore the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability, light and darkness, presence and loss. Through deeply human portraits and moody, atmospheric landscapes, Karen invites us to pause and reflect on the beauty often hidden in the everyday. By admiring, sharing, and supporting her work on Instagram, you help amplify her unique artistic voice and the emotional stories she brings to life through photography.
