Capturing music, place, and presence with Tautau on Moturiki Island

This environmental portrait session with Tautau took place on Moturiki Island in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty. The setting provided a natural backdrop that reflected both his connection to music and the environment around him. As a musician and medicine man, Tautau's relationship with place is an important part of who he is. Rather than directing or heavily posing the session, the focus was on observing and documenting genuine moments as he played, reflected, and immersed himself in the experience. Photographed on a warm, sunny afternoon overlooking the beach, the session was less about creating a traditional portrait and more about capturing a sense of presence. The result is a series of authentic, environmental portraits that reflect both the person and the place that helps shape his story.

A special photo session with Tux in his final days

This portrait session took place among the sand dunes of Mount Maunganui, where Vaughan and Maree wanted to capture meaningful moments with their beloved 14-year-old dog, Tux, in his final days. Rather than creating posed portraits, the focus was simply on documenting time together in a place that held special meaning for all three of them. The beach was Tux's happy place where he could explore, relax, and enjoy being with the people who loved him most. The result was a collection of natural, honest moments that reflected their connection and celebrated a much-loved companion in a place that felt like home.

Inside John’s hangar... setting the stage for old rockers

This environmental portrait session with John and his band of “old rocker” friends took place in his hangar at Tauranga Airport. Living in the hangar reflects both his life as a pilot and his passion for music. His old biplane sits alongside a purpose built stage, where he regularly plays with his band for a close circle of friends. Photographed in black and white with a subtle grain, the intention was to echo a raw, timeless feel…  reminiscent of classic rock photography. My focus was on honest, unposed moments of performance and connection. The result is a documentary-style portrait of a group of musicians fully immersed in a space where they live their rock star dreams!