After undertaking life-changing surgery last year which saw her have a portion of her brain removed to stop a lifetime of seizures, Karley is going from strength to strength.

September saw the 18-year-old celebrate her “hemiversary”, a year since the major surgery and she recently became medication free. 

Her mum Nikki says they are now focusing on getting Karley’s photography career off the ground. 

"We are getting into the business swing of things,” Nikki said. 

“It’s all about building up her confidence and her experience.” 

Earlier this year saw Karley and Nikki headed over to the USA to take part in a once in a lifetime photography work experience trip with some of the world’s best photographers on behalf of the Sebastian Foundation and the Heart Project.

She held her first solo exhibition in Cowra after arriving back in the country and says she’s keen to continue to practice developing her skills, including working with kids, baby photography and family portraits. 

“We’ve had a few shoots out here,” Nikki said. 

“We’ve done a few bits and pieces, family portraits, a couple of Karley’s friends from school.” 

After receiving so much, Karley and Nikki have plans to give back to the local community and beyond. 

“Now she can give back after so many people have helped her,” Nikki said. 

This includes photographing children with disabilities in areas such as Walgett and Lightning Ridge and giving their families the portraits through the Heart Project and teaming up with photographer Karen Alsop. 

She has also spoken to more than 300 students at Blayney High School with plans to do a tour of schools across the state in 2017. 

“The teachers said I inspired a few, I was the talk of the school for a couple of days,” Karley said. 

“That’s the plan for the next six months, tour after Christmas and go on the road,” Nikki said. 

“I’m just going to keep taking photos of everything and anything, it doesn’t matter what,” Karley said. 

Karley has now set up her very own studio in her home with plans to do Halloween and Christmas themed photo shoots. Karley is offering a half hour to an hour photo session for $50 with participants two A4 portraits printed on fine art paper. 

Mention this article and receive a 10% discount for a Halloween shoot at an arranged time on Saturday, Sunday or Monday. To make a booking, call 0450 415 508 or email hello@karleymillerphotography.com