Reflections on Motherhood with Ebony Talijancich

Ebony Talijancich is a portrait and lifestyle photographer based in Fremantle, Western Australia, where she lives with her husband, James, and 2-year-old son, Vivian. Fascinated by colour and texture, Ebony takes an artful approach to photography to capture candid and incidental moments where these worlds collide.

To celebrate Mother’s Day this year, we asked Ebony to turn her gaze inward and reflect on the colour and texture of her own experience of motherhood.

What does motherhood mean to you?

You have these grand visions of how you're going to be a mother or parent before it happens: "I want them to be like this...I hope they like this...etc. etc.". But really, it's about leading by example because that will be more influential than an ideal you've dreamt up in your mind. It's about enjoying the simple things and finding joy and wonder in everything you do. (Suddenly, a cardboard box is a never-ending treasure trove of possibilities). There are highs and lows, but tomorrow is always a new day.

How has your mother influenced you?

My mother is the strongest and most organised person I know. I am the youngest of four, and now that I am a mother of one, she is a pillar of unwavering inspiration to me. She is as practically minded as she is emotionally available and supportive of all of her kids. I aspire to be like her.

What legacy do you want to leave to your children?

Approach everyone and everything with love and kindness; the rest will come. The power of people and community is incredible, and it is one of the most important things for a person at every stage of life. It's not a tangible legacy but an important approach to life.

What's something special about being a mum that you didn't expect?

How strong maternal instinct would be [for me]. But my favourite thing is experiencing things for the first time again through the eyes of a child; it makes things feel very special.

What have you learned about yourself since becoming a mum?

I've learned I have the strength and capacity for much more than I ever imagined. I've learnt to be proud of myself.