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Business Details
Wedding & Family Photography in Melbourne
The Runaway Hearts specialises in capturing authentic moments through 35mm film photography and Super 8mm videography for weddings and families. With a focus on natural storytelling, the business prioritises emotional connection and timeless aesthetics. Kara and Bibi, the lead photographers, bring a combined decade of experience in creating artful, candid imagery that celebrates imperfection. The team offers tailored packages across Australia, including Melbourne and the Gold Coast Hinterland, with flexible payment plans and travel options.

Their work has been praised for its vibrant hues and ability to preserve fleeting memories. Clients receive edited galleries within 6-12 weeks, alongside sneak previews to share immediately. The business also provides coffee-table albums and engagement shoots to enhance the storytelling experience.
Services
Wedding Photography Family Photography Super 8mm Videography Engagement Shoots Photo Albums
Highlights and features
  • We shoot exclusively on 35mm film for unique, vibrant results
  • Our team offers travel across Australia with flexible payment plans
  • Clients receive sneak previews within days of their event
  • We provide handcrafted albums with polaroid storage pockets
  • Specialists in vintage Super 8mm wedding films since 2012
What people say
Magical quality Professional and friendly Quick delivery Beautiful natural shots Whimsical style
Services
Wedding Photography
Specialist 35mm film photography capturing weddings in vibrant, timeless hues. Our approach focuses on candid moments and emotional storytelling. Clients receive 150+ edited images within 12 weeks, with sneak previews available within days. Available as standalone or combined packages.
Super 8mm Videography
Authentic wedding films shot on Super 8mm cameras for nostalgic, cinematic results. Options include highlight reels or full-day coverage. Combines with photography packages for cohesive storytelling. Delivered as physical reels or digital transfers with music integration.
Family Photography
Documentary-style family portraits on 35mm film, focusing on genuine interactions. Sessions include 25+ edited images starting at $1,250. Available in-home or location-based shoots across Melbourne and Mornington Peninsula. Optional digital upgrades available.
Engagement Shoots
One-hour pre-wedding photography sessions to build comfort in front of the camera. Includes 50+ edited images from $1,250. Available as standalone bookings or add-ons to wedding packages. Helps reduce day-of nerves.
Photo Albums
Custom-designed coffee-table albums with 200+ images and polaroid storage pockets. Printed in Melbourne using archival materials. Available in multiple colour options with handwritten captions. Priced at $1,750 when booked with packages.
People
Kara Riley
Lead Photographer
Award-winning film photographer specialising in weddings and families. Known for capturing authentic moments with vibrant 35mm results. Over 10 years experience creating timeless imagery across Australia.
Bibi
Travel Photographer
Creative documentary-style photographer covering weddings across Australia. Expert in Super 8mm films and candid storytelling. Brings a relaxed energy to every event while maintaining technical excellence.
Questions
Do you offer travel services outside Melbourne?
Yes, we travel across Australia for weddings. Contact for quotes on locations over 100km from Melbourne or Gold Coast.
Can we upgrade our package later?
Yes, you can upgrade to longer coverage hours up to three months before your wedding date.
How long until we receive final images?
6-12 weeks for full galleries, with 50+ sneak preview images delivered within days of your event.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we provide automatic four-part payment plans with a 25% deposit to secure your booking.
What film formats do you use?
We shoot exclusively on 35mm for photography and Super 8mm for videography, with digital available as an add-on.
Are albums included in packages?
Albums are available as add-ons starting at $1,750, featuring 200+ images and polaroid storage pockets.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Devon Roberts
Jun 20, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
I had the most amazing shoot experience with Kara. She photographed me at 32 weeks pregnant and made me feel so comfortable, it was a dream. I had so much fun & have incredible photographs and memories that Ill treasure forever. Couldnt recommend her highly enough x x
Kachina Dimmock
May 17, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Kara perfectly captured our engagement shoot. The location was stunning and Kara's direction and ability to capture it all so candidly was faultless. Also, the images were returned super quick! I would recommend Kara in a heartbeat for timeless pictures that you'll treasure forever.
Charlotte
Apr 23, 2021 Report
Kara is INCREDIBLE. From the first time we spoke I just felt so at ease, she has such a great calming energy which is what every stressed bride needs in their life. On the day, she was amazing. Above and beyond. She was like a ninja, she got so many shots from so many angles, we still dont know how she did it. She genuinely enjoys her work and just had the best happiest vibe which made our day even better. The results are so beautiful, I absolutely love the look of film photography and she has such a great style. She is a true professional. She wasnt pushy, she just let the moments happen
Natalie G.
Feb 25, 2021 Report
Kara captured our wedding in 2017 and I am still in awe of the incredible images we are left with. We had a combination of posed and candid images and each were just as perfect as the other. Every year on our anniversary we sit down and look at our photos and each time we notice something different. Kara has given us the most magical gift. We can relive one of the best days of our lives over and over again. We cant thank you enough xx