I was invited to document the Baptism of Despina. This is up there with one of my favourite photographic opportunities to date. I love documentary photography of people, culture and emotion. This was all of those things and much more. Stepping inside the Greek Orthodox Church in Darwin blew my mind. It feels like you have been transported halfway across the world. My family (and work colleagues) also appreciated the massive trays of Greek baklava and other treats that I brought home for them to eat.
I had previously met Despina when photographing her first birthday party, so I had already started to get to know her and the family. In short, they are a bunch of legends. Despina was born at 24 weeks (or 26, bad memory), and her survival is a testament to her strength. She is a remarkable child with the most peaceful, inquisitive, wise and joyful temperament.
I hope I have captured this, along with the story of her baptism in these photos.
