Behind the Lens and Into the Glow: Kellie Donnellan Tanning Journey

February 4, 2026

Meet Kellie Donnellan — a Brisbane-based family photographer, mum of two, and someone who truly lives life outdoors. Between beach days with her kids, park adventures, and photographing families under the Queensland sun, being outside is simply part of her everyday life. After years of relying on fake tan to feel confident in photos, Kellie began using Gold Coast Tanning’s nasal sprays to support a more natural-looking glow that suited her active, outdoor lifestyle.

What was your skin tone like before starting your tanning journey?

I’ve always been very fair. I was constantly using fake tan to try and add some colour, especially for photos, but I was honestly over it. I wanted to actually feel confident in photos myself, not just the people I was photographing.

BEFORE- SEPTEMBER 2025

I love making other people feel happy and confident through photos, but I realised I wasn’t feeling that way about myself. I wanted a natural tan that suited my lifestyle without the mess, streaks, or constant upkeep of fake tan.

I started using them in late 2025.

I noticed good results after just a couple of sun sessions with consistent use. Over about 12 weeks, my tan really developed into a beautiful, natural golden glow.

MID- OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2025

My skin responded really well. I still use SPF and moisturiser regularly, and I’ve had no issues at all. It felt like my tan developed more evenly and naturally.

Yes, definitely. Between work, beach days, and running around with the kids, I’m always outside.

Absolutely. I always wear SPF, moisturise daily, and I’m big on being sun smart. I also make sure to get regular skin checks — that’s really important.

Coconut — hands down.

It’s natural, even, and healthy-looking. I finally feel confident in photos without needing fake tan, which is such a good feeling.

CURRENT- LATE 2025 EARLY 2026

Yes, 100%. It’s amazing having a tan that helps you glow without burning, but I always remind people to be sun smart and look after their skin too.

Ultimate Strength Nasal Tanning

Gold Coast Tanning delivers Australia’s most trusted tanning nasal spray — now simplified into one ultimate-strength formula.

-High-performance peptide blend for fast absorption.

-Designed to support gradual, deeper-looking colour development as part of a balanced tanning routine.

-No confusion with double, quad strength options just one ultimate strength formula. Our products are Ideal for fair or pale skin, helping support smoother, more even-looking colour development over time.

-Apple, watermelon, coconut and grape flavours to choose from.