Melbourne Out Loud: Life through the lens of Rennie Ellis

If there was ever a photographer to take Melbourne’s portrait, it was Rennie Ellis.

Rennie had an uncanny ability to slip into all kinds of social circles and his photographs are the ultimate story of life on the town.​

He roamed our places: St Kilda Beach, the MCG, Swanston Street, Sidney Myer Music Bowl. He met superstars: Tina Turner, Mick Jagger, Grace Jones. He stood with crowds on the biggest days of the year: Melbourne Cup, the AFL Grand Final, the Boxing Day Test. He befriended people from all walks of life: athletes and celebrities, punks and protesters, beach goers and party lovers. And he captured it all on camera.

Melbourne Out Loud is a collection of iconic, unseen and everyday photographs from one of our greatest chroniclers. A celebration of going out, being seen and being yourself.

Learn more about Melbourne Out Loud: Life through the lens of Rennie Ellis.

COMING IN JANUARY 2025

Celebrate the evolution of queer culture in Melbourne as part of the 2025 Midsumma Festival with a selection of newly added photos to Melbourne Out Loud.

From early gay liberation marches and joyous party scenes to alternative Arts Balls and fashion, Rennie Ellis photographed a rich array of key moments for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Enjoy a glimpse of Melbourne’s queer scene across the 70s, 80s and 90s.