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Getting in front of the camera…
For a lot of us, purposefully putting ourselves out there in front of a camera does not come naturally or with much enthusiasm. Believe me, I totally get this…. So you want to choose a friendly photographer who will listen and understand your needs and concerns.
At your portrait session you want to be able to have fun and be yourself in front of the camera because these are the moments that will show your character, your true happiness and deep love for each other.
You know your family better than anyone and only you know how comfortable and relaxed your family will be at a portrait photography session. You want a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere for all involved. This is where I can help by working with you to give you and your family the confidence to relax, connect and shine.
It’s really important your family can enjoy this experience so natural effortless images you love are the result. If its' studio portraits you are wanting, then an easy, child friendly space is what will work best for you. My studio is at my home so it's a child proof inviting space with room for the kids to move around. If an outdoor location is your thing, consider a location which reflects the essence of who your family is and what you love to do together. I've got heaps of suggestions which can help you choose the best for your family and for creating artworks you will adore.
MORE ABOUT ME
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Masters with Distinction in Photography from the Ilam School of Fine Arts, University of Canterbury, New Zealand. This is one of the longest established art schools in New Zealand and one of the oldest in the English speaking world.
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Exhibited and published artist and author with images in the My Place exhibition and publication from the Place in Time documentary project
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Photographer and author of the book ‘Ask me to Dance’, published in 2008, accompanied by a solo exhibition.
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Teacher of Visual Arts for 18 years, specialist in teaching Photography.
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Exhibited photographic works in the Canterbury Art Teachers Association art exhibitions – 3 years.
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Gold Award winning Photographer – Iris Photography Awards – 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014
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WPE - International Photography Awards - 2020 -silver award x1, bronze award x1
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International 'The Portrait Masters' Photographic Portrait Awards 2020, 2019 - silver award x1, bronze awards x8
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New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) Portrait accredited member. This means I use the NZIPP Terms and Conditions.
Meet the Team Behind
About Me
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We’re committed to providing personalized service from the very first interaction. When you reach out to us by phone or email, it’s Marty and Tegen who will be there to assist you.
Marty and Tegen both work part-time and are the friendly voices behind most of our customer calls. Whether you're inquiring about our services or ready to book, they’ll provide all the information you need and guide you through the process.
They are experts in answering your questions, providing details about bookings, and making sure your experience with us starts on the right foot.
So, when you give us a call or send an email, you'll be in great hands with Marty and Tegen!
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Let's make it Fun
You place a high value on your family images and I place a high value on your needs, ideas and individuality and of course creating beautiful Artworks for you. You want stunning classic images that evoke a timeless feeling and capture the essence of those in them. I will work closely with you to achieve the best image results and the ultimate experience for you. Plus, you'll have fun!
I didn’t just fall into photography. The visual image has been my life for as long as I can remember. It is a strong and vital language for me and I have been studying, teaching and practicing this language for a long time. I love challenging myself and entering National and International Photographic awards and pushing myself to continue to grow as an artist.
I have young children of my own and I've been teaching Photography and the Visual Arts for over 15 years, so this helps with relating to kids and managing larger groups.
I look forward to meeting you and finding out more about how you want to be photographed!
The Value of Photographs
Over images we spend time together and we ask questions. We learn about our pasts and we learn about our family histories, but most importantly we laugh and we feel a sense of belonging in our family. We feel love and a place that is ours. Just like you, I want my children to experience this, and I want them to be able to share this with their children, and those who will follow them. Your images will be treasured as important heirlooms right now and for many generations to come.
So… talk with me about your family and your ideas for creating beautiful legacy images.
Gold Award – Portrait Classic Category – Iris Awards 2015
Silver distinction Award – Creative Portrait Category – 2014
What others say…
“Having never had a family portrait session previously, we were initially very nervous about the process.
Thanks to Maria’s easy manner and professionalism the exercise turned out to be enjoyable and rewarding.
Maria, ensured she understood exactly what we wanted by asking the right questions and listening well. Maria provided us with helpful clothing suggestions and recommended great locations for the shoot.
Maria managed a group of eight of us, which included three children, very masterfully. Her communications with us
were courteous, informative and prompt. The final images are of an outstanding quality and beautifully presented.
We could not recommend Maria more highly”.
- Lesley and Jonathan Allan
” Maria was so calm with my new born grandson. He wasn’t settling but she was so patient.” – ” Maria was non obtrusive and helped me relax in turn helping my son to relax”
– Jadah Pitama & Melanie Taite
"Maria has been photographing my family for last 8 years. I found her to be very professional, and delivered what she promised. I'm still amazed at how beautiful the photos are. I will be continuing to use Maria for my family photo through the coming years. Highly recommend ".
- Stephan Klopper
"Maria was amazing! She captured the essence of my children and our relationship on camera. She is calm and exudes control; a true artisan. We treasure her photographs every day".
- Lucy Mackie