I came across Mishy’s work through the daily newsletter The Colour, and liked her use of colour and textures – plus we have a little in common because she has also moved from Brisbane to Melbourne and is currently living in the northside. Thanks Mishy!

Mishy, tell me a bit more about your background in graphic design and photography and your work as Mishy Lane?

My background is mainly in graphic design and marketing. I have a multimedia degree and studied graphic design at Shillington College in Brisbane, which was the most fun you could possibly have studying!

Since then I have been working for architectural companies and doing freelance in my own time. I always loved photography, but never quite took it seriously. I just used to make my friends pose for me, and I’d throw them up on my blog for fun. Last year I took some styled interiors / homewares shots for Nesting Bird Interiors with my friend and stylist Natalie Moore, and they were featured on the huge American design blog Decor8. That’s when I realised my photography was getting much better.

What’s a typical work day for you?

To be honest I am very much struggling to deal with full time work and freelance design / photography. I really admire those people that take the leap and pursue their passion as a full time business. I dream of the day when I can afford that, but until then I spend 8.5 hours working in the city, buzzing on caffeine, and then come home to work some more. Weekends I try and catch up with friends and fit in some photo shoots. Seriously there aren’t quite enough hours in the day!

What are some of the most interesting or challenging projects that you’ve worked on?

They have all been challenging because I learn something from every project. Nothing stands out in my mind, other than working with a very young, hungover model which really tested my patience!

What are your next plans for Mishy Lane?

At the moment I am trying to manage my time so I can keep building Mishy Lane as a business. I’d love to collaborate with creative people; models, stylists, designers and magazines. I am also assisting with a new Melbourne based label  archie which is launching online soon.

What advice would you give to someone starting their own business?

Don’t be shy. Spread the word about your business and products. My mother always said that if you don’t tell people how great you are, then no one else will. I use free mediums like blogs, and social networking sites to meet and talk to like-minded people.

Where do you turn for design advice and inspiration?

The pros! If I see a photoshoot in a magazine that I love, or a designer featured somewhere online, I’ll contact them to tell them I loved it. I also quiz them about their design process / equipment etc. They are usually happy to respond and give you some tips. I especially love Paul Barbara and in particular his Love Lost project which inspires me madly.

You’re pretty new to Melbourne – what have you discovered around Melbourne that’s HOT?

Yes, I’ve only been here a month but so far everything is HOT! I’m slowly working my way through the Melbourne Design Guide, and heading to places that friends recommend to me.

I live in Northcote so I have been really enjoying the Wesley Anne (250 High St, Northcote +61 3 9482 1333) for an Sunday afternoon beverage, and Curry Masala (240 High St, Northcote +61 3 9481 3559) also on High St for a great cheap dinner. The El Joyero (923 High St, Thornbury +61 3 9480 4070) is a new little spot that does an awesome coffee.