Gold Access Unlocked: Meet the Members Shaping Our Community

Simona Janek is more than a photographer — she’s an image and confidence specialist. With a background in modelling, she has more than 20 years’ experience in hair and makeup artistry, and a reputation for creating polished, modern portrait photography. Simona knows how to bring out the best in people. From corporate headshots and personal branding to editorial-style portraits, she’s gifted with the ability to make women feel confident, authentic and empowered in front of the camera. Her work is a reminder that personal branding matters in business, and that showing up professionally, confidently and unapologetically as yourself can be a powerful advantage. She offers Gold Access Members a special rate on her suite of services.

Best advice you’ve ever received, and do you actually follow it?
Done is better than perfect. I’m still working on the second part.

What’s (still) on your bucket list?
Photographing women in incredible locations around the world; and spending a few months living somewhere in Europe.

Favourite local restaurant, and what are you ordering?
Bathers' Pavilion: burrata, fresh seafood, and a glass of something cold and sparkling overlooking the water.

If you could sit with any woman for a long lunch, who would it be and what would you ask?
Diane von Fürstenberg. I’d ask how she stayed creatively relevant and confident through every stage of life.

What helps you get into your best work zone?
A good night’s sleep. Music on, coffee at arm’s reach, beautiful natural light, and a really good conversation with the person I’m photographing.

You can only pack three things in your handbag. What’s coming with you?
Lip balm, mascara and my phone.

Describe your perfect day off.
Yoga and slow breakfast by the beach, a walk, nowhere to rush to, and dinner with family or friends.

What book or podcast has made an impact on your business?
The podcast How I Built Thiswith Guy Raz. I love hearing how creative businesses actually grow behind the scenes.

What’s something people may be surprised to learn about you?
I like sewing clothes — it allows be to be creative, problem solve, and use my hands, all at once. It calms my mind. 

What are you excited about next?

My trip to Adelaide with my mum, who has just turned 80. She’s an inspiration in how to stay healthy and sharp in the mind.