My Photography & Art Journey

“Every photo has a tale to tell – and every artist has a journey that shapes it.”

I’ve always enjoyed taking photos, but my creative journey truly began when I met my husband, Robert, in 2007 and moved to his farm in 2008. With a simple Canon Powershot, I started capturing life on the land and documenting our travels. Photography quickly became a way to hold on to the moments that mattered.

In 2015, Robert gave me a Canon 70D for Christmas — a gift that opened the door to more serious photography. A trip to Alaska the following year introduced me to photographers who inspired me to shoot in RAW and manual mode, giving me new creative freedom. I started producing photo books of our travels and discovered the creative world of Photoshop.

But in late 2016, Robert was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Everything paused. When he passed away in 2018, I was overwhelmed with grief. My camera and computer were packed away, and I felt completely lost.

To quiet my mind and begin healing, I slowly returned to photography — this time with purpose. I dove into learning how to use my camera, Photoshop, and Lightroom, watching tutorials and exploring every creative path I could find. Art became my lifeline.

In 2019, I upgraded to a Canon 6D Mark and joined Elevate Your Art, a course that taught me how to turn a photo into a hand-rendered digital painting. That’s when something shifted. I wasn’t just editing photos — I was telling stories.

Since then, I’ve become a photo restorer and digital artist. I specialise in reviving old and damaged photographs, giving them new life with care and precision. From war portraits to faded wedding snaps, I help preserve the precious memories that connect generations.

Today, I create from my home studio in Wagga Wagga. My artwork is available as prints, greeting cards, and heirloom restorations. I’ve exhibited in hospitals and galleries, and I continue to learn, explore, and grow as an artist.

“Thanks to Robert — for the camera, the love, and the belief — I found purpose through art.”

My Journey continues…

– Marie Helyar