Sometimes life captures and draws us in, sparking a fire of passion and attraction we didn't know existed until that moment. Call it serendipity, an intuitive pull, a feeling of coming home, or perhaps fate calling.

At the age of 15, a trip to Port Douglas and a chance visit to the Peter Jarver Gallery was one of those moments for Thomas Brooke. Seeing Peter Jarver's breathtaking work inspired and sparked a deep passion within Thomas, he knew then he wanted to become a photographer.

"Photography works exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be" Duane Michaels

For Thomas this quote encapsulates what he loves about photography. Everything in this world has depth, and a photo can only capture what is in front of it. But Thomas continues to break this barrier through his imagery.

While still at high school Thomas conducted his work experience at the photography department of the Herald Sun. He went on to forge relationships with many talented photographers he found inspirational, in particular Andrew Maccoll, and has gone on to assist these artists on their shoots, gaining invaluable exposure to the industry.

Thomas just completed his second year at Photography Studies College in Melbourne and is already showing amazing vision - Something his teachers and peers have recognised. His recent body of work "ySociety" was chosen for display at the PSC exhibition space, a rare feat for a 2nd year student.

Thomas has worked professionally across many different fields of photography; Portraiture, Architecture, Reportage, Product and Event. Highlights of his portfolio include Chief photographer for "The Likes of You" (Future Entertainment, 2009), documenting the events they hosted and artists they toured. He has worked alongside wedding photographer Bernie Griffiths (Gregory's Photography, 2008 & 2009). He is currently working for David Reid Homes in Melbourne and his architectural pieces from these shoots have gone on to be published in the "Melbourne Home Design + Living" Magazine. More recently, Thomas has been working with Strike Bowling Bar, also gaining the opportunity to travel interstate.

Thomas' style is strongly based around design, with bold lines, and edginess whilst still keeping it slightly quirky. Thomas tries to break the separation between art and commercial photography, to bring something more unique and in-depth. While his main focus is currently around Portraiture, Fashion, Architecture and Lifestyle Photography, Thomas loves to take on new challenges and different photography assignments.

Thomas loves connecting with people. It is important for him to always capture his subject in a truthful way, so he takes time to connect with them before introducing the camera.

By understanding his subject, he aims to capture the essence of that person. Whenever suitable, Thomas shoots using a documentary style, so that he can capture the natural beauty of someone. He finds this kind of photography is the best way to truly represent a person through his images.