This Big Life is my creative outlet, a space where I can let my mind wander away from the demands of work and reconnect with the things that truly inspire me. I’m Kirra Pendergast, a businesswoman, photographer, and writer who, at 51, left my hometown of Byron Bay, Australia, to embrace a new chapter in Florence, Italy.
 

This blog celebrates slowing down, something I had to learn when I moved to Italy. It’s dedicated to finding beauty in the every day and making space for the things that ignite our passions through making, baking, writing, or taking pictures. Here, I share stories inspired by the photographs I take, whether entirely imagined narratives born from the moment a photo is framed or heartfelt interviews with the people I’ve captured.
 

As a passionate street photographer, I use my Nikon Z7II, a camera that demands I slow down and consider the delicate interplay of light, exposure, and composition. Unlike a phone, my camera has no notifications vying for my attention, allowing me to immerse myself in the moment. For me, photography isn’t just about capturing an image; it’s about creating art and finding a way to escape into the present.
 

Through this blog, I maintain my connection to Byron Bay, the place that shaped me, by featuring photographers from my hometown who inspire me with their unique perspectives. Showcasing their work is a way to celebrate my roots and share the creative spirit of a place I will always call home.
 

This space also highlights the things that spark joy in my life. Small moments of inspiration, whether it’s the golden glow of Florence at sunset or the laughter of a market vendor. In a world now steeped in AI-enhanced images and instant gratification, I firmly believe in the importance of creative outlets that let us pause, reflect, and reconnect with something deeper.
 

This Big Life is my way of embracing and sharing that philosophy a life lived with intention, creativity, and a love for the little things that make us whole.