How Sunshine Coast Photographer Steffy Barnes Spends a Family Getaway in Byron Bay
Three children, a road trip from Sunshine Coast to Sydney (via Byron Bay), and an effortlessly chic travel wardrobe. We chat with ray of sunshine Steffy Barnes, about her recent family holiday in Byron Bay, including all the favourite spots for both herself and the kids!
Hi Steffy! Before we jump in, do you mind giving us a quick introduction of who you are and who you’re travelling with to Byron Bay?
Hi lovelies! I’m Steffy Barnes, a photographer living up on the Sunshine Coast, QLD. My husband, 3 kiddies and I are travelling back down south to visit family during the school holidays, so we thought we’d make a special little trip to Byron.
You’re travelling from the Sunshine Coast to Byron Bay (and then down to Sydney!), all with three kids in tow. What tips do you have when it comes to travelling with little ones?
We like to break up the long travel days by staying somewhere along the way, it makes the journey much more enjoyable! We always pack snacks, books, toys, cuddly toys and colouring-in for the little ones, to keep them happy while we unpack and settle in. For the long car rides, my two eldest kids love a bit of Mario Kart and Animal Crossing. I remind them what a luxury it is, because in my day all we had was the Gregory’s street directory!
On the topic of kids, how did they find Byron Bay? What did they love most? And what did you love most about spending this little getaway with them?
They really enjoyed Byron! My kids love to play tennis and have a swim/relax by the pool, so your accommodation was perfect! We explored the streets, went shopping and ate incredible food at the local restaurants, which were all walking distance from The Lord Byron. I was so thrilled with the location!
Steffy, your photography is absolutely stunning. Whether it be travel, style or product photography, we love how your work so beautifully captures a sense of calm, dreaminess and family connection. When it comes to holiday photography, what top tip do you have for fellow holiday-makers for taking photos and capturing moments of their getaway?
Awww, thank you! With the kids, I mainly let them explore at their own pace and I follow them. It allows them the freedom to enjoy the moment and makes for cute candid snaps. Sometimes I’ll ask them to run around or hold hands while walking. I also always shoot on my DSLR, my iPhone takes great photos, but I really enjoy using my camera and having control of the depth of field with different lenses for different scenarios. In any case, it’s about having fun, not putting any pressure on yourself to capture perfect moments, but authentic ones to you.
Let’s chat style (because one only needs to take a quick look on Instagram to fall in love with your beachside staples and gorgeous threads). What does your Byron Bay wardrobe look like – for you and the kids? Do you have any favourite pieces or brands that you packed for the trip?
Most of my favourite brands were born in Byron! It was a real treat walking around and seeing these brands flourish. It makes me happy, because I like supporting slow fashion and sustainable fashion. I love Auguste the Label, Spell, Arnhem, Zulu and Zephyr, Rowie, and Peony. My gosh! I could go on and on! The kids always rave about how comfortable their Zulu and Zephyr swimmers are, so we always pack them. I can never go past a feminine floral skirt or dress, or some comfy white linen!
And now, wrapping up with a quick six of your Byron Bay favourites from this getaway!
Favourite spot to eat
We loved the Mexican restaurant, Chihuahua Taqueria
Favourite for coffee
I have to say Jimmy’s coffee (which is directly opposite The Lord Byron!)
Favourite thing to do
Besides being at the beach, I’d say shopping for beautiful clothing from the local brands was so much fun
Favourite part of The Lord Byron
Relaxing in the pool
Favourite thing to pack
Our hats from Lack Of Color! Sun safe and stylish. Oh and our Freedom Moses slides (they come in tonnes of different fun colours)
Favourite song to get you in that holiday mood
Ooooh! Atm I’m loving Cave Dancer by Dandelion Head!
To keep up with Steffy and all things travel, style and family, find her @steffybarnes on Instagram.
