Grit, Camaraderie & Passion | The Athena Golf Through My Nikon Lens 2025

Two weekends ago, I found myself back at The Athena, surrounded by the energy of elite women golfers, the thrill of competition, and the quiet, unscripted moments that make the game so special. Golf and photography, two of my greatest passions, came together once again, and I couldn’t have asked for a better setting to capture the essence of the tournament, and I brought my hubby in for the ride. He was my second shooter and photo editor for the weekend.

There were so many incredible moments throughout the weekend, too many to count. From the intense focus before a critical shot to the lighthearted camaraderie between players, every moment told a story.

But this isn’t just about golf.

This series is for anyone who appreciates grit, resilience, and passion, whether you’re a golfer, an athlete, a creative, or someone who simply loves witnessing people chase their dreams. It’s about the camaraderie that makes competition more than just winning. It’s about the mental game, the quiet moments of self reflection, and the way sport mirrors life itself. And most importantly, it’s about the beauty in the unscripted moments, the laughter, the fist pumps, the deep breaths before the winning putt.

I hope you find inspiration in these photos, whether you’re out on the green or simply appreciating the art of storytelling through sport.

Thank you team PGA Australia and WPGA Tour for having me!

x Karen

Captured on the #NikonZ6III @NikonAustralia #Nikkor70200 #Nikkor2470 #Sponsored

#EnjoyYourGolf #GolfGlamGrit #WomenGolfers #PeninsulaKingswood

 

Athena Golf Girls Love Life Like.

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of working with Golf Australia to capture lifestyle portraits of these wonderful “Athena Golf Tournament” girls who live and breathe golf. We toured around Melbourne city – Hosier Lane, Federation Square, Royal Arcade, Flinders Street Station, and this is what I captured… and I still can’t get over that spontaneous crazy backflip that Rhianna did at Hosier Lane. Scroll down to see it!

Featuring:

@kelseybennett_golf
@kono0802
@justice.bosio
@gracelennon_golf
@golfin_with_rhi
@keeley_marx
@molly.mclean_
@ameliagrohn
@golfer_jordy_obrien
@catofromthevino
@hanee_bee1

Image captured on the Nikon Z6.

Show Love – Puma x MCM Slipstream Lo

German luxury fashion brand MCM and iconic sportswear brand PUMA have collaborated on a second installment, bringing us back to old-school basketball – bridging luxury and sport.

It’s the love affair between luxury and sport that has fascinated Heiko Desens, PUMA’s Global Creative Director. He wanted to highlight the classic details of both German brands in the design and construction. Dubbed “Show Love,” a coranded Slipstream Lo marks the first of the series and features brown, gold, and white makeup with MCM Visetos Monogram. Early 2023 will see the final drop, a reimagined take on the TRC Blaze Court.

These sneakers are true to it’s sizing, and have a soft furry interior that keeps your feet soft and comfortable, and the colour combination would make your outfit pop. Basketball isn’t just a sport – it’s a lifestyle.

The MCM x PUMA Slipstream Lo releases September 8 via MCM and September 10 via PUMA and select retailers for approximately $492 USD.  Stay tuned for drop details on future releases from the collaborators.

The MCM x PUMA Slipstream Lo is gifted from Puma Australia. #PumaAuPartner
Images are shot on the Nikon Z6, Nikkor Z 35 mm. #NikonCreator