In our next "Hour in Nature" series, we are delighted to feature Alana Landsberry, an international photographer and the visionary owner (with her husband) of Lilipad, a luxurious floating villa off of Sydney’s Palm Beach. Alana’s photography is known for its evocative and naturalistic style, often focusing on portraiture, lifestyle, and editorial work. Her use of natural light plays a significant role in her images, which capture a sense of authenticity, drawing the viewer into the moment.
Alana’s deep connection to the natural world is reflected in her art and the tranquil, nature-inspired haven at Lilipad, where guests can reconnect with nature in a peaceful, sustainable setting. Join us as we delve into Alana’s creative journey, her profound relationship with the earth, and the inspiration behind both her stunning imagery and the unique sanctuary she manages.
What’s your favourite thing to do in nature?
My favourite thing to do in nature is exercise. I love running and you can find me almost daily on a bush track or the beach. I love being solo and letting my thoughts go, tension dissolves and I feel that being amongst nature resets me. I also love being on or in the water. Lately I have been exploring middle harbour in my kayak and also paddle boarding around Palm Beach. Always ready to jump in for a swim. The sea restores my balance and clears my head.
How does spending time in nature influence your mental health?
Nature sustains me in the good times and heals me in the bad times. She is a rock, a safe place and a teacher … some of the greatest lessons I have learnt are from nature. The patterns, texture and tones teach me. A tree shedding its bark, the new buds of life growing through tough soil, the waves travelling far and wide just to meet you where you’re at, a rainbow at just the right time, seasons changing and the cycles of life.
How do you bring nature into your home?
My home is filled with things I find in nature… rocks, old nests, tree branches and feathers. I am a bit of a bush turkey I think. The art I collect has all got close ties with nature. I like my space to always smell nice and I burn natural oils or incense. I live next to the bush and there is alot of bird noises. So I feel like the outside flows inside.
Have you ever felt a spiritual or mystical experience in nature that defied explanation?
I have felt a lot of spiritual and mystical experiences to do with the universe and the galaxies. I cannot wrap my tiny head around the expanse and magnitude of time and space and all that we cannot grasp … a campfire under a full moon has led to many awe inspiring conversations. I feel the pulls of the moon and sun. I have a keen ear when it comes to astrology charts and the way it can steer the course. The principles of maths and science were discovered at a time when astrology was also a fundamental key to these discoveries. I believe it is intertwined and just as tangible.
What are your fondest memories of spending time in nature ?
I was very fortunate to be invited to stay on native title land in Cape York for a few weeks. I visited spots in Musgrave, Archer, Chilli Beach and Lockhart River. We slept under the stars next to crocodiles. We caught fresh fish and turtles and cooked in underground ovens. Nothing was wasted, nature was sacred. They boiled ants to make medicine … there was no noise. Birds I’d never seen migrated in their thousands to a vacant island under a burning pink sunset. It was magical and introduced me to a new religion. I hold so much respect and honour for the ancient traditions and the original owners of our land.
What is the real reason you get outside?
The real reason I get outside is to feel a shift. Nature makes me feel calmer . My kids instantly loosen up and so do I when they are rolling around in the sand (chicken schnitzels) or bare foot in a field.
