Wonderful to have my husband fly in today after being in the US for nearly 3 weeks. A quick swim in the ocean pool kept the jet lag at bay for a while, but he is certainly struggling this afternoon.

Sydney has just had it’s 33rd day over 26 degrees celscius and very little rain. All the grass is dead and the gardens are looking pretty weary, so even the hardy agaves enjoyed a bit of time under the sprinkler this afternoon.

I’ve been fortunate in acquiring a photographer’s assistant and he was flat out today helping me edit the photo shoots from the weekend.

Considering he spends most of his days napping, it’s more about the quality of work then the quantity. At least he is cheap.

Photographed a christening today and was delighted to be able to capture the very small moments of deep meaning and tradition that permeate such an occasion. Watching Alexia’s grandmother present a chain belonging to her husband’s mother, and the continuity of family this signifies.

And who can resist photographing such a delightful girl in her best dress?

Had great fun in the pool trying to get some underwater shots with Oli this morning. Obviously these things take a lot of practice and this was only our first attempt. Wasn’t going to let such a gorgeous model leave before grabbing a few shots on dry land.

The Australian Open of Surfing has taken over Manly this week and the beach is filled with the young, fit and tanned. Great to see the organisers recognise and promote local talent, with Taj Ralph opening the music stage this afternoon.

Taj went to school with my children and has been a prolific music writer and talented performer from the age of 9. Barefoot and comfortable on stage today, he has definitely hit his stride.

A link to some of Taj’s music.

Playing around this afternoon in the pool with the underwater camera. Managed to get about 60 dodgy shots and about 3 litres of water up my nose. Think I’ll stick to dry land.

I’ve learnt how ridiculously easy it is to create panoramas in Photoshop, so you will have to bear with me until the novelty wears off! This was at Avalon Beach at that gorgeous time of day when you can feel the light draining quickly by the second.