Set in the world of photography, Love Is Now is an intriguing drama chronicling a summer of love along the harvest trail.

And yesterday the Australian film and brainchild of Maitland native Behren Schulz and producing partner Jim Lounsbury was brought to life during filming at historic Tocal Homestead.

“We really wanted to showcase regional NSW in this film and I also know the area,” Schulz, 37, said.

“I grew up here so the film includes a lot of the old haunts I used to visit around the Hunter Valley. So, for me, there is also an element of giving back.”

Love Is Now follows the story of experienced photographer Audrey and aspiring snapper Dean and their growing passion for each other while travelling across the Australian landscape.

Leads Eamon Farren (Red Dog, Chained, Carlotta) and Claire Van Der Boom (The Square, Red Hill, Sisters of War) are joined by Dustin Clare (Spartacus, McLeod’s Daughters), Heather Mitchell (Muriel’s Wedding, The Great Gatsby) and Chris Haywood (Shine, Jindabyne).

“Love Is Now is a bit of a love story, a bit of a coming-of-age film and there are lots of things that happen so it should suit, hopefully, most people,” Schulz said. 

Schulz – who cites The Big Steal as his favourite Australian film – discovered his love of film as a child.

“My favourite thing about Australian film is that we enjoy drama,” the former Tenambit Public School pupil said.

“I have a job that’s just fun and when I don’t enjoy it anymore I’ll try something else but right now there is nothing else I would rather be doing.”

Love Is Now is being filmed over five weeks in places including Sydney, Crookwell, Broke and Bigga.

“I’m grateful for regional film 

initiatives like Screen NSW that allow filmmakers to travel to places like here in the Hunter,” Schulz said.

Eponine Films partnered with Nikon Australia as the major supporter of Love Is Now. The film is scheduled for release in November.