Meet the Team

At artist photographer, we believe that every great portrait begins with a great team. Our dedicated group of artists, photographers, and art directors are passionate about capturing and crafting the perfect images that reflect your story. Each team member brings their unique talents and expertise to the process, working closely with you to ensure your experience is personal, memorable, and seamless from start to finish.

Founder & CEO

Mark Strachan

In 1982, Mark founded artist photographer after working as a press photographer for the Herald and Weekly Times Newspaper Group. Starting with traditional film and darkroom techniques, he embraced digital technologies in the mid-1990s, becoming the first Australian photographer to partner with Kodak on the PhotoCD system.

Mark transitioned fully to digital in 2000 but still maintains a museum of over 50 film cameras, including a Leica M3 once owned by Arnold Newman, the famed portraitist of Marilyn Monroe. He also collects works by renowned photographers like Annie Leibovitz, Lewis Carroll, Nick Ut, and Richard Avedon.

Mark's images have appeared in various magazines and books, including two coffee table volumes featuring his work. In 2013, he became a Leica Ambassador, and in 2014, he tested the new Leica M in Germany and Africa. Recent years have seen him working across Europe, the US, and Australia, conducting workshops and fulfilling portrait commissions.

Studio Manager

Kiara McCarthy

Kiara, our Studio Manager, grew up in a small country town in North East Victoria, where her strong work ethic was shaped from just 15 through a career in customer service. After moving to Geelong to study at Deakin University, she joined artist photographer in 2014 in a newly created role, quickly discovering a passion for fine art retouching and print.

With a meticulous eye for detail, Kiara introduced in-house printing to ensure every piece of artwork meets the highest standard while reducing client wait times. Over the years, she has developed a deep understanding of every facet of the business, progressing to Operations Manager in 2017 and Studio Manager in 2020. Guided by her mentor, Mark Strachan, she is committed to delivering a seamless, elevated client experience while fostering a positive, supportive team culture as the studio continues to grow.

Outside the studio, Kiara is devoted to her husband and two children, and shares her home with two rescue dogs, an adopted cat, and a bearded dragon—embracing the warmth and energy of a full and lively family life.

Photographers