Redleaf is one of those places that quietly stays with you.
The first glimpse through the hedges as you approach. The way the homestead slowly reveals itself as you turn into the drive. That feeling of calm, excitement, and arrival — like you’ve just stepped into a holiday you don’t want to end.
There’s a softness to it all. The colour and texture of the building, the surrounding gardens, the sense that time moves a little slower here. You arrive, take it in, and feel your shoulders drop almost immediately.
I’m Scott — a Sydney-based wedding photographer who has photographed multiple weddings at Redleaf and feels completely at home there. It’s one of my all-time favourite venues, and one I’m always genuinely excited to return to. Each time I arrive, it feels familiar in the best way — grounding, inspiring, and full of quiet possibility.
Redleaf has a very particular energy.
The homestead, with its colour, texture, vines and iconic awnings, feels like a rustic Italian villa dropped gently into the NSW countryside. It instantly takes me back to travelling through Europe when I was younger — long afternoons, warm light, and that carefree sense of being completely present.
What surprises many couples is how intimate Redleaf actually feels. From the lawn in front of the homestead, to the garden near the fountain, to the pines and lake beyond, the spaces feel contained and considered. It’s special without being overwhelming — a place where people feel safe enough to relax, let go, and be themselves.
I’ve photographed weddings at Redleaf over the past few years and know the property well — from where the light falls at different times of day, to how the spaces flow as the celebration unfolds. That familiarity allows the day to move naturally, without rushing or second-guessing, and creates space to respond to what’s actually happening rather than forcing moments.
Ceremonies can take place in front of the homestead, near the fountain garden, or among the pines — each offering a slightly different feel while still maintaining that unmistakable Redleaf atmosphere. Whether it’s open and sun-filled or more intimate and tucked away, each location holds its own quiet sense of occasion.
Winter and spring are personal favourites. The light is soft and forgiving, with beautiful shadows dancing across the homestead walls and through the gardens. On sunny days, the afternoon light turns golden and wraps the entire property in warmth, creating a softness that feels timeless and unforced.
My approach never really changes — people first, always.
No matter the venue, my focus is on how the day feels, how people connect, and the moments that unfold when no one is being rushed or over-directed. Redleaf supports that way of working beautifully. It rewards patience, awareness, and an ability to read the room rather than control it.
Redleaf doesn’t require hours and hours of portrait time to shine. A short walk at the right moment is often all that’s needed. I love heading out toward the lawn and lake around sunset, with the homestead glowing softly in the background. It’s calm, unhurried, and always feels meaningful — less about posing and more about simply being together in the space you’ve chosen.
If you’re getting married during daylight savings, sunset photos are a must — even just for a few minutes. The goal is always to get what you need, then get you back to the party. Great photos shouldn’t come at the expense of the experience; they should exist in service of it.
Because Redleaf attracts couples who value experience, atmosphere, and intention, the approach I take here feels instinctive and unforced.
Redleaf tends to attract couples who are thoughtful, stylish, and quietly confident.
They value experience over spectacle — though there’s no denying that standing in front of the homestead does make a statement. They care about photography not just for how it looks now, but for how it will feel when they look back in twenty years.
Many dream of retiring in the Italian countryside one day. Redleaf feels like a small step in that direction.
A small selection of weddings I’ve photographed at Redleaf Wollombi, each shaped by its own light, landscape, and energy.
Lauren & Dylan — Redleaf, NSW
A refined, joy‑filled celebration that balanced elegance with warmth. Their wedding was later featured in Together Journal.
Mikaela & Tom — Redleaf, NSW
A relaxed, high‑energy day full of movement, connection, and a dancefloor that kept everyone on their feet. Their wedding was featured in Hello May.
Yumi & Shaw — Redleaf, NSW
A relaxed and intimate day full of connection, emotion and that stunning golden light.
“Scott absolutely blew us away. From the very beginning he was completely invested and brought such a great energy to the day. He captured everything so beautifully and has an incredible ability to document candid moments.”
— Lauren & Dylan
“Scott’s photos stood out to us because of how natural and fun they were. On the day he was calm, fun to be around, and even stayed an extra hour because the dancefloor was going off — we are so glad he did.”
— Mikaela and Tom
Have you photographed weddings at Redleaf before?
Yes. I’ve photographed multiple weddings at Redleaf over the past few years and feel completely at home on the property. I know the layout well, how the spaces connect, and where the light works best at different times of day — which allows the day to flow naturally without unnecessary interruptions.
Where do ceremonies usually take place at Redleaf?
Ceremonies at Redleaf can take place in front of the homestead, in the garden near the fountain, or among the pines. Each location has its own feel, but all share the same sense of intimacy and calm that Redleaf is known for. I’m comfortable photographing ceremonies in all of these spaces.
Do we need lots of time for photos at Redleaf?
Not at all. Redleaf photographs beautifully without needing long portrait sessions. A short walk at the right time — often around late afternoon or sunset — is usually more than enough to create meaningful, relaxed images while still allowing you to spend time with your guests.
Is sunset photography worth it at Redleaf?
Absolutely. If you’re getting married during daylight savings, even five or ten minutes at sunset can make a big difference. The light becomes soft and golden, and the homestead glows beautifully. I’ll always guide you on whether it’s worth stepping away briefly.
Is Redleaf better suited to formal or relaxed weddings?
It works for both. Redleaf can feel elegant and formal, or relaxed and understated, depending entirely on your choices. Some couples lean into a more refined celebration, while others pair a beautiful wedding day with a casual lunch or gathering the following day.
Is Redleaf suitable for intimate weddings?
Yes — and it’s one of my favourite ways to experience the venue. Smaller weddings at Redleaf feel incredibly warm and personal. The spaces feel contained and considered, which makes intimate celebrations feel intentional rather than scaled-down.
What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?
You’re not alone — and it’s something I’m very used to. My approach is natural and relaxed, with minimal posing. Most couples are surprised by how comfortable they feel once things get going. The focus is always on connection and experience, not performing for the camera.
How do you work with the light at Redleaf?
Light plays a huge role in how Redleaf feels. In winter and spring, the light is soft with beautiful shadows across the homestead. On sunny days, the afternoon light turns warm and golden. I plan portrait time around this so it feels effortless rather than rushed.
Will photography take us away from the celebration?
Only briefly, and always intentionally. My priority is that photography supports your day — not dominates it. The aim is to create beautiful images while keeping you present and connected to the people you’ve gathered.
Do you recommend Redleaf as a wedding venue?
Wholeheartedly. Redleaf is one of my all-time favourite venues to photograph. It’s beautiful, intimate, and thoughtfully designed — a place where couples genuinely relax and enjoy the experience.