After spending a decade as an environmental scientist, Marnie Hawson turned her new career in photography into a platform for impact. Today, her work focuses on photographing high-performing, sustainable architecture, and projects aimed at biodiversity and climate change solutions. "I only shoot projects that align with my values," she explains. Her drive for independence led her to pursue photography, but it quickly became more than just capturing beautiful spaces - it became a tool for change.
Without formal training or assisting other photographers, Marnie’s learning process was self-taught and on the go. "I made it up as I went and learnt on the job," she recalls. Over time, her approach to photography has become more refined, but her aesthetic has remained consistent.
“I only shoot high performing buildings now, along with projects focused on biodiversity and climate change solutions - so the former is very precise and considered, whereas the nature shoots are more about capturing the essence and soul of a wider place.” - Marnie Hawson
When shooting architectural or interior spaces, Marnie offers practical advice. For smaller areas like bathrooms, she highlights the importance of layout, lighting, and avoiding common distractions like toilets. Working with a stylist also makes a big difference when it comes to the final shot.
Building Sustainably
Whilst the building industry and sustainability don’t always go hand in hand, informed choices can make a big difference. For homeowners, architects, designers and builders, the first step is to align on values from the start. Marnie advises to work with a team “who specialise in high-performance buildings," These professionals can help source ethical suppliers and make more sustainable decisions throughout the project.
The key to building sustainability, according to Marnie, lies in the supply chain. "Your suppliers are key, I bang on all the time about the importance of considering where you are spending your money in all aspects of life. If they aren’t talking about their sustainability journey, it’s probably not high on their list of priorities," she emphasises. Certifications such as Certified B Corp, 1% for the Planet, and Fair Trade can be useful indicators of a company’s commitment to ethical practices.
It’s also important to consider how and where products are made. Marnie especially appreciates Nood Co basins for their thoughtful design and Australian manufacturing, with a focus on minimising environmental impact by considering embodied energy, their carbon footprint, and reducing waste.
Business of Biodiversity
Marnie’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond photography. In partnership with the Odonata Foundation, she created the Business of Biodiversity (BoB) course, designed to help businesses integrate nature into their operations. "Restlessness drove me to start this," Marnie says. “I love the quote - ‘If not you, then who? If not now, then when?’".
The Business of Biodiversity program combines ecological stewardship with sustainable economic growth. Structured as a six-session series, the course helps businesses develop a tangible nature project. Participants also then have the option to join an alumni community for ongoing support and resources. "We onboard new businesses each year, focusing on practical, impactful ways to work with nature," Marnie shares. Season 2 of the program will launch in February 2025, and early bird pricing is now available.
The course is open to businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to large corporations. The goal is to help participants create projects that deliver measurable benefits to nature while generating economic value. The program incorporates scientific research, innovative financing mechanisms, and collaboration with local communities to ensure businesses thrive while positively impacting biodiversity.
By the end of the course, participants will have mapped out a nature project to bring back to their teams, gained confidence in executing their ideas, and built connections with environmental partners. For those looking to continue, the alumni community offers further networking and support.
From working with ethical suppliers to focusing on sustainability in every detail, Marnie’s approach shows that beautiful design and environmental responsibility can, and should, go hand in hand. Her work, and her Business of Biodiversity course, provide valuable tools for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their projects and businesses."
For more details, visit businessofbiodiversity.com.au or register for the information session on the 22nd October 2024.
September 27, 2024
Anastasia Ignatova
