What Is a Beetle Moment?

It started with a beetle.

A beetle moment is a way to describe the moments that fill you with emotion and makes you think "I never want to forget this". They are moments of connection unique to every relationship - the way your toddler rests their head into your chest, or the crash tackle hugs as you come through the door. beetle moments happen everyday but are easily lost in our busy family schedules and careers.

For Matt, his literal beetle moment came from watching the joy and excitement of his 2-year-old daughter finding ladybeetles in the backyard.

About me

Hi I'm Matt,

a photographer based in the Southern Highlands and Sydney, NSW. My photography style is candid/documentary, focusing on families and relationships. The philosophy behind beetle moments is a culmination of the people, events and experiences that have shaped my values. It is about slowing down and appreciating our lives with the same excitement and curiosity as our kids.

Family

I grew up with 2 sisters and a brother, I loved spending time outside riding bikes, playing basketball and fishing. Both my parents were refugees from the Vietnam war, they worked extraordinarily hard to build a life and provide for us. Needless to say busy work schedules meant that time all together as a family was sparse, despite this our home was full of love and warmth (something I didn't fully appreciate until later in life).

Now as a husband and father to my own beautiful children I love spending time together. Like every parent, I struggle with the feeling they are growing too fast while excited to see what they will learn next.

Career

I joined the NSW Police Force when I was 20 years old and served for 11 years. Joining at a young age exposed me to more difficult situations than most people will experience in their lives. I witnessed families in their hardest moments, at the same time I got to witness the strength, courage, and love that holds families together. My time as a police officer taught me to search for the positive in each situation and value each moment.