SCOUT ARTIST ROTATION - Katharine Rogers

Every couple of months, our sunlit Marrickville studio’s walls feature new beautiful artworks by local artists. This month, we’re welcoming photographer (and Scout member) Katharine Rogers! Katharine’s fascination with the natural world captures the beauty and wonder of birds and wildlife in their element. We spoke to Katharine to learn more about her incredible work!

Tell us a little bit about you and how long you’ve been coming to Scout?

I'm an interdisciplinary creative working in film, photography and words. I was born in the UK, and we moved around a lot when I was a kid. I moved to Sydney in 2002 and never left. I've lived in various parts of the Inner West and love the like-minded community here. I joined Scout in 2023!

Can you share a little bit more of your background and your passion for photography?

I've been taking photographs since I was a teenager. I've always been a visual person. I only started really honing my craft of photography during the pandemic. I photographed birds that came to my balcony, and at first the photos I took were pretty basic, but then I did lots of practice, online learning and upgraded my equipment. I taught myself how to get images that better represented how I see the world. I find photographing nature and wildlife very meditative. When I'm out with my camera hours go by and I barely notice.

Please tell us more about your pieces on display in the Marrickville studio - what was your inspiration?

I took these at an ethical wildlife photography course. I'm interested in capturing the bird's personality and also the textural details. Most birds have really gorgeous feathers which we might not notice or appreciate in detail when we see them in the wild but a photograph can showcase that beauty. I believe taking the time to stop and notice the details, allowing ourselves a moment of awe, or wonder is a powerful tool to centre us in a busy world.

What do you hope people feel or notice when they view your work?

I hope they just take time to stop and look at the birds close up. Notice the details. Appreciate how special our Australian wildlife is. If it gives people a moment of pleasure and pause then I'm happy with that.

Do you have a favourite piece in this collection? What makes it special to you?

I think it's the Blue Winged Kookaburra looking straight down the lens. It's so immediate. He's really looking straight at the viewer. He looks cranky and in control and I love that.

Where can we see more of your work?

I post updates on Instagram @katharineruthrogers and there's more details on my website https://www.filmgalinpurple.com/