The World Through Marni Hine’s Lens

Local photographer Marni Hine’s journey behind the lens began far from her home in the Burdekin.
Reflecting on her early days in photography, Marni recalls, “I was a fashion model in Asia in the late 1980s and early 90s, and I became interested in the alchemy of photography then. It was such a mystery.”
This initial spark led her to New York City, where she studied photography at Parsons School of Design, diving into the world of “chemistry and dark rooms.” Her experiences shaped her career, eventually taking her around the globe with renowned fashion photographers.
“I loved the interesting and creative people involved in this industry,” she says, but adds with a laugh, “I was an awkward nerd, so being behind the scenes was preferable to me.”
Back in Australia, Marni has turned her focus to the Burdekin region, where she finds endless inspiration.
“Photographing locally after returning to Australia, particularly in the Burdekin, has a unique lean to it,” she shares.
Highlighting the local talent, Marni says, “There are so many wonderful photographers here who know how to use natural light beautifully.
The Australian landscape is varied and interesting, so there’s a lot of available outdoor scenarios to roam amongst.”
Though her love for natural light shines, Marni admits, “I really miss the technical aspects of lighting in a studio.”
She acknowledges the challenge of recreating that precise control outdoors without a budget: “To try to mimic this is the most challenging part.”
One of her favourite subjects is the Burdekin’s agricultural community, as she herself spent 12 years as a haul-out driver.
“It’s the first year I’m not hauling, and I miss the action,” Marni confesses.
“I have planned to continue photographing the paddock people. I love the poetic meaning of outdoor work and the quintessential image of ‘Hard Yakka’ that goes on here year-round.”
When asked about advice for new photographers, Marni encourages embracing mistakes.
“From those, you truly learn,” she says. She also advocates studying the history of photography “to see its evolution,” adding that “the play of creativity has become an anxiety-riddled task” in today’s world. For Marni, the joy of photography is “ultimately freedom…a gentle way to connect with the world around you.”
Marni shares her work on two Facebook pages: Project Raw, dedicated to the Burdekin’s cane farmers, and Marni Hine Photography, hoping to keep her community connected with her unique perspective.
“I hope to keep people interested in these pages so they can see the work when it sporadically arrives,” she says with a smile.

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Marni Hine is a stellar photographer right here in the Burdekin. Photo Supplied

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