Karamika Photography

New Blog

2012-01-05T21:21:00.000+13:00

This Blog has now come to an end. I have updated my provider and a new Wordpress blog is at this address :) below
I will keep this one active as I have had some trouble trying to export it over !
Thanks - - Karen

http://karamika.com/blog

The Secret Wedding

2011-10-10T13:45:00.024+13:00

I have had to keep a secret - and I think I did it pretty well, and now the surprise is out. Suzanne and Andrew were married on Saturday in front of family and friends at a surprise wedding. They had been engaged for a little while and Saturday was meant to be an engagement party - but instead - unknown to all their and friends (less the two or three who helped arrange the wedding) they were the delighted guests at a beautiful wedding. Here are a few images from the day.

It was a very happy and fun filled wedding. The boys even had a chance to glimpse at the Wales/Ireland match World Cup Rugby while we did photos. It was such a pleasure being able to be part of their day. Congratulations!

Hello Blog

2011-10-08T11:36:00.001+13:00

I have been away for awhile in the land of Facebook..... slack - yes I know, will be rectifying that in the next few weeks...
Meanwhile it is spring, - down here on the farm - and Sonny Bill is the lone lamb. Have been expecting a couple more - however, the mother to be is becoming larger by the day with no new arrivals. She is so big - I feel like popping her with a pin! (if you know what I mean).. I am a bit concerned and am on "ewe" watch daily. I hope all is okay with her..
And this weekend - well I am off on an exciting secret adventure and will not be able to say much - until tomorrow.. maybe...

Emma and Mick- wedding at Mantells, Auckland

2010-07-25T09:15:00.001+12:00

Emma and Mick were married at the beautiful Mantells establishment a few months ago . Here are a few of our favourite images from the day. Many thanks again to Sally for coming along to assist.

It was a lovely wedding - and we had such a great time.
Emma and Mick - it was a pleasure - Congratulations!

Jeff and Micaela a Waiuku wedding

2010-05-02T21:04:00.008+12:00

Jeff and Micaela were married on a gorgeous autumn day in Waiuku's Catholic church. It was a lovely service and we later discovered, while doing the family photos, that Micaela's grandparents were neighbours - a mere 300 metres down our road! what a small world:)

We headed off to Karioitahi beach, with barely a cloud in the sky, for photos with the bridal party, and stopped off at a few of our favourite photos spots on the return trip - to the Pukeoware Hall for their wedding reception. The hall looked amazing - and was such a nice venue.

Micaela's lovely flowers were from Designer flowers Pukekohe and her gorgeous gown from Bride's Corner, Manukau City.

Thanks so much for having us along to photograph your wedding - it was such a pleasure.

Congratulations to you both again:)

Kim and Rob ~ a wedding in Clevedon

2010-03-11T19:29:00.009+13:00

Recently we photographed Kim and Rob's wedding - which was held at Vin Alto Winery high on the hills overlooking Clevedon and Ardmore. The venue was lovely, with views over rolling country side and even a peep of the sea over towards the East. We had a blast with the wedding party (thanks Nic!! also known as the "third" Kim).

It was a very hot day - as most of them have been in Auckland lately but we all managed to be sunburn free - I think.

We had such a great time Kim and Rob - thanks so much for having us along to photograph you - on your wonderful wedding day ... K:)

Nico and Helga - Castaways Wedding

2010-02-06T18:33:00.009+13:00

We were at our favourite venue Castaways again lately - this time for Nico and Helga's wedding. They had flown in from the Netherlands for their ceremony and the weather was hot and brilliant. Luna - their daughter was such a delight.

It was a great day for paragliders too - and many shots were taken as they floated past down towards the Karioitahi surf. After the ceremony and family photos on the cliff edge, it was down to the beach for some fun relaxed shots. Sally, with her new camera, was with us to assist again -thanks so much Sally :)

There was a distinct Dutch theme to the wedding, not surprisingly! and the colour orange was prominent.

A great sunset favoured us again and we finished off the night with a few late evening family shots.

Thank you so much Nico and Helga - the wedding was so relaxed, it was a pleasure to meet you all and photograph your wedding.

Kelly and Andrew - Auckland Wedding

2010-02-05T06:32:00.009+13:00

A quick upload of Kelly and Andrew's wedding in Auckland City recently - and what a marvellous time we all had. The best wedding service ever - in St George's Epsom - and then on to the Auckland domain for a quick photo by the "tree". However a busload of tourists very quickly got in on the act ...cameras everywhere!! No doubt our couple and the wedding party will be famous and feature on a site somewhere in the Northern Hemisphere!

Then on to Sals' Pizza in downtown Auckland - where a number of hot delicious pizzas were demolished rather quickly - then over the Harbour bridge to Northhead and Cheltenham - and then to the reception at the wonderful McHughs.

What a great day, a terrfic wedding and such a wonderful couple. Thanks so much Andrew and Kelly for allowing us to be part of your day ..

Rochelle and Mark - wedding at Castaways

2010-01-29T14:09:00.008+13:00

Another super wedding held at Castaways recently, being that of Rochelle and Mark. My first shot of the day was of Rochelle's gorgeous ginger cat, who was wondering I imagine, what all the fuss was about, as he was removed from his perfect grassy hideaway. The gorgeous flowers were by Lisa Hamilton at Bridal Flowers. After shots of the family and attendants at home - it was then a comfortable ride via Rolls Royce down the southern motorway to Karioitahi. It wasn't long before Rochelle, who was given away by her son Lachlan ,was being piped down the lawn at the Castaways venue, towards Mark and the wedding guests at the cliff edge.

Another windy day on the West Coast and it was perfect for the glider type aircraft zipping past overhead during the perfect wedding ceremony - which was taken by Chaplain David Smith.

After family photos it was off to the beach for fun shots at the beach. Sally was again assisting for the day (thanks so much Sal) and was a wonderful help to us. She has discovered my penchant for jetplans :) and Mr Mike had to make do with what was left!

Rochelle and Mark and the wedding party were great fun and we had the best time - with some terrific images produced, a perfect mix of fun, casual, arty and classic shots. We returned to the Castaways venue later in the evening for the sunset shots and we were rewarded with colourful sunset.

Much thanks again to Rochelle and Mark and the great cast and crew at Castaways for another awesome day!

Tina and Connon Wedding at Castaways

2010-01-15T06:29:00.007+13:00

I love New Years weddings - especially those at Castaways. Tina and Connon had travelled from Vancouver, Canada for their wedding held at Castaways. I knew they would be a fun couple after Tina had emailed me a fun shot of them - early in our correspondence.

There was much excitement and a bit of tension before the wedding as the rain swept across the ceremony location early in the afternoon- but it cleared perfectly in time for the wedding on the cliff top.

My favourite wedding shot - that would be :: well there are far too many.

However -I did get an "accidental"shot - which is hilarious - but can't be published here:) and involves a groomsman... He will need to wait to see that one!

The gorgeous peonie flowers were from Flowers by Katrina.

The celebration carried on well into the night and we had such a great time with super couple and their friends and family.

Looking foward to seeing you again sometime when you return to NZ - Thanks for letting us be the ones to share your day, it was such a pleasure to be your photographer.

I love hot chocolate

2010-01-10T14:25:00.006+13:00

One of those "things we do" is photograph at Castaways fairly regularly, being our "local" so to speak..

After the biggest part of our part of the wedding day is over (ceremony and photo shoot etc..) - we return to Castaways about 15 minutes or so before sunset. The Bride and Groom come out onto the cliff edge with us and we take sunset photos for about 20 minutes while the sun is going down. Sometimes (well mostly) the sunset is great - other times not so much - but it is always interesting and exciting to see what we get...and 99% of the time there is also wind!

While waiting for the bride and groom (after or between the speeches/dinner) I said in passing to Marcel how I loved hot chocolate... And three minutes later - Voila - a lovely hot chocolate - arrived for me - very yummy and moreish.. Thanks Marcel.!! ... At that time of night the last thing I need is coffee - so hot chocolate filled the gap very nicely, thankyou.

Rumour has it that Marcel will also be Head Boy at Waiuku College this year...Congratulations Marcel - I hope you will still have time to work out at Castaways.

Marcel does have a nice smile, but I managed to catch him totally unawares... You are now on the blog Marcel - you will be in hot demand for more of those hot chocolates I imagine...

See you again :)

Thanks once again so much to Steve and the team - who make our task so much easier and provide awesome service to everyone.

One day we should write a book - -there would be some stories to tell:) based somewhere totally fictious ... of course

Summer Wedding Photography Pricing Special

2010-01-07T14:35:00.003+13:00

Summer Wedding Photography specials at Karioitahi Beach – $500
This runs from January 1st 2010 until the end of March 2010... or if demand is high - October 2010

Some couples love beach shots - some don’t…

Here’s a great deal for those couples whose budgets don’t allow for full wedding day photographic coverage – but you would still love to have some really great shots.
You may have friends and family who will and can photograph the “befores,” the ceremony, the family photos and the reception.

We will photograph you and your bridal party at Karioitahi Beach –
The fee covers our services up to 1½ hours of fun – creative- artistic photography,
Hi-res files, approximately 100 on CD, provided to you approximately 3-4 weeks after your wedding day
All images copied into viewable low res folder– ideal for email, web galleries or Facebook
Images receive basic standard colour correction plus each image also as black and white
10 images (of photographer’s choice) “photo-shopped “processed with different effects (sepia, cross-processed, vintage, textured, colour toned etc...)

Is there a catch?…. No … But
PLEASE NOTE::::
Services provided only as above, on location for 1.5 hours at Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku and does not include any before shots, ceremony, family photos or reception shots.
All fees must be paid in advance, $250 booking fee, plus $250 two weeks before your wedding day.
No refunds of fees paid if the photo shoot does not take place.
Photographic agreement and Model release to be signed so photos can be used in our portfolio or blog.
If the weather is not great for beach shots – we can discuss and arrange alternative back up locations – within the Waiuku district…
If more services are required - those can be negotiated up to two weeks before your wedding.

Lisa and Greg - Wedding at Castaways

2010-01-03T10:55:00.007+13:00

Another great wedding held at Castaways recently - photographing Lisa and Greg.

It was a windy day (there have lots of those windy -type days recently!) so had a few photos at down at Karioitahi beach and the remainder at the Castaways venue and at one of our "special" locations.

Lisa looked stunning in her gown and the whole bridal party were lots of fun and looked terrific. The celebrant Seonid Horne - did a fabulous job as usual of the lovely wedding service. I enjoyed the readings during the ceremony, which were not the usual ones.

Got some fun shots too at the throwing of the bouquet and the garter retrieval/throwing.

We had a great time at Castaways - (Yes--it is our favourite venue) where the service and staff are the best in the business.

Thanks so much Lisa and Greg for allowing us to share in your day, photographing your lovely wedding.

Happy Holidays

2009-12-26T15:43:00.002+13:00

Happy Holidays to one and all!

I have a few blog posts to catch up on at the moment and will be back to posting once the deluge eases off.

Until Later..... K

Laura and Jock - Auckland Wedding

2009-12-04T20:58:00.007+13:00

We recently photographed Laura and Jock's wedding. It was one of those will it or won't it rain type days... and Auckland - as it is - didn't surprise us - so we got a bit of both.

Laura and Jock had a wonderful wedding party and all played to the cameras like true professionals.

After the ceremony at the Diocesan School chapel - we headed high into the hills (and clouds) above Drury to their wedding reception at Four Oaks, where we also took the location shots.

Flowers were supplied by Cartier for Flowers in Newmarket , and Laura's gorgeous gown and bridesmaids dresses were from Modes. Jock and the men's suits were from Exclusive Suit hire.

Thanks again so much Laura and Jock for having us to photograph your beautiful wedding. We will catch up again soon.

After the Wedding - Sunset photos with Nick and Cara

2009-11-30T17:00:00.005+13:00

When I met Nick and Cara for the first time - they loved the sunset shots that we take often at Karioitahi. We thought about how we could factor in sunset shots for their wedding day photo session - but distance was an issue as the wedding was not held very close by...

So we set up a date, not quite a "drown the gown" session- but very nearly, if Nick hadn't been so steady on his feet with his lovely new bride in his arms heading into the tide!

We watched and waited - with weather in "dicey" mode -low cloud hanging over the coast and hills for days and then a strong and cold wind.

Finally we had a date and we had a great time for an hour on the beach. Cara was very brave in the cold - but I wrapped her up anyway in my baby shawl - which luckily for all - was clean and "baby bits" free.

Thanks so much for the session - it was lovely to see you both again and our very best wishes to you for a great future :)

Jai - Baby photography lifestyle session

2009-11-30T08:23:00.005+13:00

Catching up with the blog posts - as I am a wee bit behind!

Had a fantastic lifestyle photo session with Jai recently - and the results are wonderful. Jai will celebrate his first birthday early in the new year and was full of laughs (and strawberries at one stage) with wonderful expressions from those big blue eyes and long eyelashes.

We held the session at a park very near his home and Jai was let "loose" to explore and play games with the "silly" photographer and parents who were great "baby wranglers". A great time was had by all - and look forward very much to photographying Jai again in the future

Outdoor shots with children (if weather permits) is my location of choice. We work around sleeping times for childrens sessions - as it is very important that the child is not tired. I would rather postpone a session if a child is tired or unwell.

Everyone should enjoy the experience and the results will speak for themselves

Cara and Nick - Auckland Wedding

2009-11-16T19:06:00.008+13:00

A great wedding this past weekend - held at the Nathan Homestead, Manurewa with a favourite couple Cara and Nick. History was a great part of their day - especially with the bracelet that Cara wore, where she was the seventh generation bride in her family to wear this on her wedding day.

The huge family bible, 150 years old, also came out into the gorgeous sunshine that filled the Nathan Homestead garden - where Cara and Nick were married. The homestead grounds were emaculate as always. Many of Cara and Nick's family were involved in the wedding preparations for the day and the wedding certainly had a lovely family vibe to it.

Cara looked stunning in her gown - and makeup for her and the bridesmaids, was by Shelia Rama. Cara and Nick's wedding rings were from Grace Jewellers in Papakura.

After the family photos we headed along to the Botanic Gardens for a fun location shoot with the bridal party. The day brought sunshine, wind, cloud and eventually a few spits of rain , which held on to it's arrival until well after the start of the reception

We had assisting us for the first time, Sally, who I have known for many years during her time playing for the Waiuku Womans premier football team. Recently though she has been studying at Whitecliffs and has chosen photography as her major for her BFA. The last five images in this set are Sally's and she has made a great start with us and will come again for a few more local weddings later in the year.

Our congratulations to Nick and Cara - what a lovely day, great family and a very cool wedding party!

Winter and Lincoln

2009-11-07T12:20:00.004+13:00

I met 2 week old Winter last week for a newborn session. Sweet little man who slept quite well and bravely ignored "toe" distraction courtesy of his big brother Lincoln:) But what a gorgeous distraction Lincoln was, with his big blue eyes! It was great to meet the family and take a few casual shots of them all together too- which is the style of family photography I enjoy and do best. Hope to catch up with you all again soon.

Maria - Newborn Art session

2009-11-05T21:36:00.004+13:00

Another newborn session and what a lovely little sleepy girl Maria was. She did wake briefly a couple of times - but was so placid and asleep again quite quickly. Don't you love all that hair!
It was a pleasure to photograph this darling little girl. Her big brothers were great in the "helping" department too and very interested in my car's auto side-mirrors!

Lovely to meet you all and look forward to seeing you all again.

Floyd

2009-10-30T20:08:00.003+13:00

Floyd - what a lovely little fella - the youngest of three boys (Floyd was thought to be a girl until his arrival!). I had a blast at the photo session, Floyd was great, with gorgeous eyelashes and blue eyes - mostly wakeful as he was nearly 2 months old:). His older brothers played "assistants" for me at times, drew me pictures and were a great helping, carrying in the gear and props!

It was a very cool day, had fun and a beautiful drive to Pukekawa - high up on the hill overlooking the Waikato river.

Happy Anniversary to Us and New look Website

2009-10-26T21:44:00.007+13:00

A busy week and weekend, between house sitting (or rather Max sitting) while Ash was holidaying at the Fafa' resort in Tonga with Chris, I was catching up on processing, driving to photo sessions, lugging heavy gear, shooting , driving again, shooting again .. (Gee, I feel tired just thinking about it).

Then more processing, backing up files and much uploading of resized images to our new look website which has now gone live.
For those of you who will have a look (I know, I just tend to go to the blog too :) ) - it will take a wee while to load the first time - due to the number of larger images, but don't those images look so much better now on the big screen.

There is the option to go full screen the website - by clicking the little icon at the lower right hand side - it's an oblong with a square in it.
The client galleries now have a direct link in there too - which is good as it shows a thumbnail and not just a name on the page. I have also kept a link to some of the older galleries, with wedding photos taken at a few different wedding venues.
Nothing quite like copy and paste... plus a bit of html tweaking here and there...
A celebration also - as it is 10 years since the start of our company and photography business.

Glad to be home after a week of the "Vista" laptop... but I will miss that large flat screen TV and recording and watching MySky... and of course now I am back to sharing the remote...(well almost)..
Being back home in the old bungalow, where our large country garden, which is quite stunning at the moment, is rather nice too - as she is "peaking" :) That is where I like to be - - when I am not here....

Jake - newborn - aged 10 days

2009-10-21T19:56:00.005+13:00

Jake's newborn session was fun -and we held it in his lovely newly decorated bedroom. He did sleep for a wee bit - until all the moving around got a bit much for him - and then we were wide awake again. But I got the chance to try out the new blue baby pod I knitted for his session! Many thanks to Kirstin and Mike for the opportunity to photograph their precious wee son . See you all again:)

Veezohn - newborn session

2009-10-17T15:40:00.005+13:00

Lovely Veezhon - a gorgeous newborn boy who wanted to be awake most of the time during our photo session- but that gave us a chance to do some great shots with his Dad:) His shoulders were adorable and his calm nature shone through the images. By the time I had unloaded all my gear at his parents home - there looked to be a huge party going on - but luckily it was quick to clear away...Amazing really that so much stuff can fit into my car - the small hot red filly.. The joys of being a roving, natural light photographer - meeting such lovely families and beautiful babies.

Kelly and John a Wedding celebration at Castaways

2009-10-12T17:03:00.023+13:00

Kelly and John recently celebrated their wedding at Castaways - Karioitahi. The day brought another rather arctic blast from the South-east and fingers were crossed all week for a rain free day. We were fairly well rewarded, as there had only been a light drizzle in the morning. After the getting ready shots in the lovely Chalets above Karioitahi beach, we headed down to a "mostly" sheltered part of Karioitahi beach with Kelly, John, bestman Paul and bridesmaid Ann. The surf however,was pretty fierce looking! The wind grew stonger into the photo session - so rather than freezing - we headed off to a hidden country road, amongest the hills, where there is shelter all around. One of the great points about living local - we have a few of these "wind free" zones up our sleeves!

Before long it was back to the west coast for the ceremony and reception. We had a great time and met some lovely guests. Natasha, Emily and Rhys, were such great kids and the girls did so well in their flower-girls roles, wearing some very cool jewellery made for them by their talented Mum. They were also pretty darn good in the jumping department - although Rhys I think managed to get his four year old legs slightly higher off the ground! We returned later in the night for the sunset shot, cake cutting and first dance....another benefit of being local:) The staff at Castaways were, as always, in top form and it was a pleasure to photograph in such a professional and outstanding venue.

The stunning flowers were by Katrina of Flowers by Katrina - who I met for the first time, such a nice talented florist, who's work was some of the very best I have had the pleasure of photographing.

Kelly and John's wedding cake was from Decor Cakes in Otahuhu

Congratulations Kelly and John - we had a wonderful time at your wedding celebration - such a gorgeous, relaxed couple - your family and friends were so nice to us:) Best wishes to you both and to your sweet daughter Emma, enjoy the short time back here in New Zealand before your return to the UK.

Rico - Newborn Baby Session

2009-10-06T20:14:00.005+13:00

Some photos from a recent newborn session with Rico aged 6 days. Gorgeous little boy (well not so.o.o.little @ 9 lbz 4 oz of him) - who was awake for some of the time. We used some of that awake time to also to catch up with his Mum. :) So good to meet you finally Rico and great timing to arrive just before your Mum's birthday. (From experience - a much better feeling to put the mother age down as a whole year younger on that birth certificate - even though you were born just shortly before :) )

Karamika Photography now on Facebook

2009-09-28T20:06:00.003+13:00

The Facebook page is now up and running for the Karamika Newborn Art/Baby & child photography side of the business. As usual the blog wlil be updated here and the Facebook link will have more images posted in a gallery.
If you have trouble with Facebook while using newer versions of Internet Explorer- uploading images into your own galleries - try using Mozilla Firefox as your browser. However always have a good virus scan/spyware software running.

Flinn Newborn baby session

2009-09-21T17:33:00.006+12:00

A few images from a recent newborn session with Flinn who was three weeks old. A wee bit older than the"less than 10 days old" which is really the ideal age for newborn art sessions. However, Flinn was a darling - wide awake, alert and so inquisitive as to what was going on around him. I was ready to take him home with me - such an adorable little boy - who will be a real heart-breaker in future years I imagine. It was a delight to meet Flinn and his lovely mum Angela.

Hope to see you again:)

Helen and Alistair - - Castaways

2009-09-13T20:32:00.010+12:00

Helen and Alistair were recently married at Castaways - Karioitahi Beach. It was a beautiful spring September day and the quite a chilly wind kept the wedding ceremony inside. What a great wedding to start the season! We had such a great time and there was much camaraderie with Alistair's family from South Africa and all the other guests. Thanks again - it was so great to be your wedding day photographers!

Bella

2009-09-12T14:04:00.004+12:00

Bella's newborn baby art photo session was held earlier this week - when Isabella was 11 days old. Newborn photography sessions are held before baby is 2 weeks old and before too many of those hormone/milk spots appear, where they tend to sleep a lot and don't mind being moved. Best to contact your photographer prior to the birth and advise them of your due date and then book a session shortly after you are settled in and comfortable at home. This session was done with purely natural light - with a wee bit of reflector. One gorgeous precious little girl is Bellal!

Uniquely Me - Lifestyle portraits

2009-07-05T19:49:00.006+12:00

Are you ever stuck for an original gift idea, for a teenager, spouse, someone’s 21st birthday or other significant birthday?

Uniquely Me - Lifestyle photography sessions by Karamika Photography, are unique and lasting.

Investment starts at $250. Possibilities are even better if you get together with some friends and give a gift voucher for one of these sessions.

You may want to add a few more friends to the circle - to cover costs for hairstyling and makeup artistry. Optional extras are also available. Uniquely Me are photography sessions all about you.

We will spend a couple of hours with you in your own environment. You could be at home in your favorite spot, getting ready for the school ball, with your horse, reading a book, watching TV – or out and about shopping in town, at the mall, the beach, the park and we will be there to capture those genuine moments over a couple of hours - - it’s all about you!

The creative fee of $250 includes

• Up to 2 hours “on location” photography in Auckland

• Images on CD @ medium res. printable up to 6 x 4 inch

• 2 @ 8” x 10” enlargements of your choice

• This fee is for one individual - please contact us for (multi) pricing

Optional Extras are available and include:

• $150 - Hair styling and makeup

• $150 - Slideshow of images (for TV or PC) with music

• $300 - 10” x 10” photo story book custom designed with 30 images

Canvas Prints and photo blocks presentation options are also available

Gift vouchers are available, must be used within 12 months and are not redeemable for cash.

Travel fees for sessions held more than 70km from my home base in Waiuku. Travel expenses will be added for ferry fees if required.

Lisa and Ryan

2009-06-28T21:30:00.003+12:00

I first met Lisa a few months back when Ryan was not too far off making his arrival.

And here he is now at thirteen weeks. A gorgeously cute baby boy who is very much the apple of his Mummy's eye.. I love his wrinkled forehead and his dark inquisitive eyes.
Congratulations and thanks so much for allowing me to share these wonderful shots!

More from Lucy and Mike's wedding in Christchurch

2009-06-10T15:19:00.003+12:00

Such a great wedding! A few more images to share from Lucy and Mike's wedding.

Mia

2009-06-07T19:42:00.003+12:00

Just a few shots from a photo session recently - showing some of the colour finishes available these days through photoshop and lightroom. Mia was stunning :) A future model in the making.

Kathryn's photo shoot

2009-05-31T18:47:00.003+12:00

A different and fun photo session took place yesterday at our home base in Karioitahi with Kathryn - an up and coming vocalist from Waiuku. Kathryn has a lovely voice and we had some advertising shots to do with the microphone - so I had a few samples of Kathryn's great and varied repertoire. The weather held up long enough to get outside for some fun autum shots by our barn. Thanks to Yvonne for throwing those leaves! and Kat for a wonderful session which was great fun.

Mike and Lucy

2009-05-31T07:17:00.012+12:00

I have recently returned from the South Island after a brief autumn break and also had the pleasure of photographying Mike and Lucy's wedding in Papanui. Lucy's dress came from by Jenny's Bridal. Lucy and Emmas hair and makeup by True Grit Hair Spa- Christchurch .

After a lovely wedding service by Father Dennis, at St Joseph's we travelled north in the late afternoon, to the Waimakariri river where we had the wedding party location shoot.

The weather was perfect ! - thankfully after the forecast and threat of all kinds of stormy winter in the week leading up to the day. After a fun shoot, with my daughter Ashley assisting again- we ventured back at sunset to the reception in Merivale at Elizabeth House

The venue was stunning and a delight to phototograph in. Congratulations to a lovely fun couple Mike and Lucy - catch up with you soon !

South of the border

2009-05-20T12:10:00.005+12:00

I have been away in the beautiful Canterbury region photographying, amongest other things, a lovely and super fun wedding. After stressing (and slapping myself later) over the weather... The forecast earlier in the week was for.... hail, gales, snow, rain... and then once I arrived the weather was glorious all week. I must have known deep down it would be fine - - I put off buying thermal underwear... The worst part, in all honesty -was the turbulence on arrival and leaving Christchurch airport.... I was spoiled rotten by having a rental car upgrade !! (Avis rentals were great - I loved my Mrs RAV) and then to top things off - the hotel (Rydges)upgraded me as well to gorgeous suite overlooking the Avon river. I can't give the hotel staff enough praise - they were so nice and professional. The best belated mother's day presents ever ! Just a sneaky look at the area where we toook the wedding party shots... more to follow of course--- as I wade through them all... until later.... K

Mel and Myles Wedding at Awhitu

2009-04-14T18:31:00.010+12:00

What a full day we had - starting off down at Karioitahi - Mel and Myles had a fun adventurous start to their wedding day - being chauffeured in the Variety bash tour limo - by their wedding celebrant and well known celebrity Ewen Gilmour.
A quick photo session on the beach - and then a few stops on the way - including a bus shelter and dairy, before a another quick photo session at Awhitu.

Their wedding was held at the Awhitu Regional Park - near the Brooks homestead where many of the guests had been given roles on the trip down and had parts to play" including Frodo and Sam who had the rings , hidden in a packet of Burger rings - much to their surprise. Onto the PBC double decker bus - we travelled back to Auckland City - for a cruise around Waitemata harbour in the Soren Larsen.

A long day, a fun day - and one we won't forget in a very long time.

Congratulations Mel and Myles - Awesome time!!!

Not much swimming going on here :) but the lifeguards had a laugh!

Overlooking Awhitu - with the phantom Fantail "follower"

High on the hill on the way to the Awhitu Regional park

A quiet moment inside the homestead

Being Good Friday the dairy was closed - no chance for an iceblock today!

The school kids bus stop - we have no idea what the locals thought was going on

Exchanging the rings

Later that night - on board the Soren Larsen - Waitemata Harbour

Kirsty and Mike

2009-04-11T22:01:00.009+12:00

Kirsty and Mike were married recently at Wrights Water Gardens in Mauku, Patumahoe

A romantic moment down at the waterfall

One of the best shots of the night was Kirsty's sister Heidi catching the bouquet. Not something any of us will forget in a hurry:)

A wonderful couple - so right for each other and very much in love

We had a great time with Kirsty and Mike who are long time friends.

Kirsty looked amazing and Mike was also at his "finest" :) Congratulations and best wishes to you both .

Adam and Sheena

2009-03-27T21:58:00.010+13:00

A few quick images from Adam and Sheena's wedding in Pollok, on the Awhitu Peninsula recently.

Erika and Greg

2009-03-04T22:13:00.005+13:00

Updated images from Erika and Greg's wedding... A gorgeous day at Castaways again!. .

Helen and Pete

2009-02-22T09:53:00.004+13:00

And few more of our favourite shots from Helen and Pete's wedding at Castaways - - we are getting there with the post-processing guys :) !! (sneaked/squeezed in one of those images from the engagement session too)

Vicki and Chris

2009-02-22T09:48:00.005+13:00

A few favourites from Vicki and Chris's wedding at Belsaas. .......

Quick sneak preview

2009-02-10T06:03:00.004+13:00

Just a quick photo from Erika and Greg's beautiful wedding last week. More to come after they return from their honeymoon!

Helen and Pete

2009-02-08T20:23:00.005+13:00

We really look forward to weddings like this – down at our “local” Castaways. Helen and Pete have had us booked for a very long time - and we have gotten to know them both really well. The engagement photo session a few months ago was a blast, and so much fun! They had an enlargement matted, and had this on their wedding gift table – so that guests could sign the border.
I started the day off up in Ponsonby in the morning – where Helen, Amanda, mother of the bride Sue and junior bridesmaid Cheyanne were getting their hair and makeup done. It was very rowdy and fun, and of course the champagne helped. Nathan (who is a celebrity stylist) was awesome…! Such a great guy (yes he was gorgeous too) and so very talented. I met Vanessa from Indigo Moon – who was filming the video. (The best looking videographer I have met and so nice ). The girls were transported back to the Castaways by Gangster Cars – and I managed to grab a shot as they whizzed past our house on the way to the beach.
Nothing was going to stop this excited bride - and Helen arrived in style, walked down the isle, in her gorgeous Jane Yeh gown, by her Dad Keith – carrying lovely red roses by Sanda Seel.
Pete had such a wide grin as Helen joined him near the cliff edge over looking Karioitahi beach – it made my heart melt. The para gliders were out in force as usual - swooping above the ceremony – down onto the beach. The many visitors from the UK probably hadn’t seen anything as extraordinary as that – and many of them – all though covered in sun screen soon felt the bite of the sun. Seonid Horne was the celebrant and performed a lovely ceremony, as always.
Off the Karioitahi beach in the 4 wheel drives we went - for a photo shoot - which was a lot of fun and then back to the gorgeous reception at Castaways. The sunset was stunning that night and we got some amazing images.
Congratulations Helen and Pete!! – we enjoyed our day with you so much, and your family and friends were brilliant… We have some awesome photos…. Just a few revealed, enjoy these.. More to follow..(((( Big Hugs))))

Vicki and Chris

2009-02-08T16:32:00.006+13:00

Vicki and Chris were married recently at Belsaas Estate in Ardmore. It was a very hot day – with gray clouds threatening rain and the air was thick with humidity, when Vicki and her three bridesmaids arrived in a beautiful Daimler from First class classics.
Vicki and the girls looked stunning! Vicki’s lovely gown was by Susan Tasker and Hair and Makeup by D’aguiar . Chris and the boys looked very handsome in their suits from Dress Circle . (I think they were a bit surprised I remembered their names - I especially remember the cheeky ones.....)
Mike Bailey conducted the wedding service and after signing the marriage certificate and quick photos family photos – we headed to the kiwifruit vines for some fun wedding party shots. Before long it was time for Vicki and Chris to make their entrance as husband and wife at their reception at Belsaas.
Thanks so much Vicki and Chris - we have some lovely shots... - We will catch up soon . Congratulations!

James and Helen - Wedding on Waiheke

2009-02-05T11:25:00.004+13:00

James and Helen were married recently at Enclosure Bay on Waiheke Island. It was the perfect day, beautiful and clear – as it often is out there on the Hauraki Gulf.

James and the boys waited in the dappled shade of pohutukawas and Helen and friends walked past the local sunbathers and swimmers to the wedding ceremony location. Ruth Strawbridge was a delightful celebrant and the wedding service was professional and perfect. Helen’s wedding dress was by Tanya Carlson with her beautiful flowers by Wildflowers on Waiheke
Suits for James and the lads from Frank Casey

Apart from the occasional nudist swimmer! which certainly made a change - the photo shoot was fun on the rocks . Glad your friends managed lots of great shots in there too to send home to your family in the UK, who weren't able to be with you. It was a great day James and Helen – congratulations!! – well catch up soon.

Lilly Grows up

2009-01-18T21:32:00.002+13:00

I spent a fun couple of hours back again at Lilly’s house. Lilly, who is now three, was my first baby model and I have taken her photos now for a few years. Catching up (and filling in the gaps) with parents, Sarah and Bodo is always great too!
Lilly has grown into a fun, inquisitive, delightful little girl and we had a great time playing and chatting about balloons and sandpits – amongst other topics! Lilly is bilingual and an intelligent little girl who will go far! Watch this space….. See you again soon Lilly.

Anna and Gary

2009-01-18T20:21:00.004+13:00

Anna and Gary were married recently at Castaways at Karioitahi, Waiuku. It was very much a Scottish theme, and a piper played while Anna and her father walked down to the cliff edge where Gary was waiting. The celebrant was Grant Buchanan, who performed a heartfelt wedding service. Gary was wearing his family kilt and members of his family had flown in from Edinburgh to attend the ceremony and celebrations. Anna looked stunning in her beautiful lace gown, which was by Judith Whyman. Following the photos with family and friends we held a great photo session down on Karioitahi Beach. We returned to photograph the celebrations a bit later in the night and grabbed some gorgeous sunset photos, overlooking the surf beach, the cutting of the cake and the first dance by the new husband and wife. We enjoyed the music by Mike Steffans the DJ so much – we stayed on a bit later and the celebrations were in full swing when we departed. (My husband had to drag me away!) The team at Castaways again did a marvelous job and the food was divine.

Congratulations Anna and Gary, we had a great time with you and your friends and family! - We will catch up again soon

Digital Infrared Photography

2009-01-05T16:18:00.010+13:00

This has been an interest of mine for quite sometime after stumbling upon a gallery of images and fell in love with the effect straight away.
There are a number of websites which feature SLR digital cameras which have been altered. I decided not to go down this avenue at this stage. I may even pick up an older model Sony DSC F828 or Minolta Dimage which work really well – I will see how my finances work out after my impending visit to the dentist!
I decided to go the other way - as this is really just for fun and somewhat satisfies part of my creative impulsive genetics - although - I must admit I have taken one or two wedding images with it in the past . You need to be careful though as eyes show up as black – so unless we want the whole”Twilight “movie effect (but even spookier) – it is best that the bride and groom look at each other and not the camera :). Summer is the best season to take the images - Mid summer, hot weather with good cloud formations in the middle of a hot day between 10 – 2pm is best – with the sun preferably to your back.

The camera I used was a Canon Power Shot G1 (3.3 megapixels) – This camera has not been altered and I purchased if off Trade-me after some furious bidding towards the end !
I don’t stress about the amount of megapixels…(Bigger is not ALWAYS better you know)..(LOL) .. You can still get reasonably sized A4 enlargements out of these though…
I actually have one of my infrared images as the photo on my eftpos card and everyone wonders where on earth all that snow is! Imagine their surprise when I tell them – well it’s actually at my place. I purchased the lens filter in the USA after ringing around a number of places here in New Zealand – (this was a few years ago now) so hopefully someone has had the initiative to supply them here. I must check again..:)
Here is an excellent tutorial on how to do digital infrared photography.
Settings for these shots:
Canon Power Shot G1
Tripod – MOST important
Lens filter Hoya - Infrared R72
ISO 50 (Choose the lowest ISO rating that you have as a general rule)
Aperture F 4.5
Shutter Speed is very slow anywhere from 1/15 – 2 secs
RAW - - - files are then uploaded /processed and through Adobe Lightroom then exported into Jpegs. Then I ran a Noiseware programme through some of them, as the longer the shutter speed the more noise you tend to get.
Articles of interest with a lot of information:::
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared_photography http://www.infraredphoto.eu/Site/Welcome.html
http://www.wrotniak.net/photo/infrared/
http://www.nature-photography-central.com/DigitalInfraredPhotography.html

Images
http://www.arendtgalleries.infraredwithminoltad7.photoshare.co.nz/
http://www.thekoala.infrared.photoshare.co.nz/
http://www.lenshare.com/2008/07/digital-ir-photography.html

Claudine and Peter

2008-12-17T18:59:00.005+13:00

Claudine and Peter were married recently at the gorgeous Karioitahi venue, Castaways. Claudine – a stunning bride, in her gown from City Bridal and was both nervous and excited before the ceremony – and totally exhilarated afterwards.
Angela 1 , Angela 2 and Becs were a gorgeous trio in pink gowns – their hair and makeup – (great job as always) by B.O.D.
Bouquets in pink and white were divine – and from way on the other side of Auckland - Fronds in Kumeu.
Peter and the boys (not to miss you out) were all very smooth in their suits by Balmoral suit hire. Our appreciation goes to a fun bridal party who were “up” for anything, the helpers with the family photos, and also the wonderful professionals at Castaways who do a fantastic job.
The sunset was one of those special ones – and not too cold at 8.30 at night to be on the cliff edge. We also grabbed those never to be forgotten husband and wife “first dance” photos.
Claudine and Peter it was an awesome wedding - you were gorgeous, easy to photograph and made our job a pleasure. We will catch up with you both soon .

Angela and Andrew

2008-11-22T08:28:00.007+13:00

It must have been the windiest wedding ever at Castaways! The day was very sunny but with a slight chill in the air. The surf was rolling in and very choppy and up on the clifftop overlooking the beach, the guests huddled behind the flax hoping to shelter from some of the blusterly gusts. Angela - "blew in " down to the ceremony - with her parents, as Andrew watched with a great smile and anticipation - and the wedding went ahead as planned overlooking the beach. Clare and Virgina wore lovely aqua gowns and there was an aqua theme throughout the wedding. Steve (he is the BEST) from Castaways was on hand to offer the flowers girls Jade and Sophie, some shelter from the gusts, with some large white tablecloths... Nothing quite like multi-tasking items - and they were perfect - thanks Steve!

The wind was so strong at times - even my tripod could not hold my camera steady - and that was a first... Mr Manfroto (a.k.a. the tripod) needed a bit of assistance from Mike (my husband and second shooter) to shelter the main blasts coming in from the west.

Marie Hawkins, the celebrant performed a great ceremony, not too long, not too short and it wasn't long before Angela and Andrew were husband and wife. The wedding party photo shoot was held down at Karioitahi beach and the new husband and wife were blissfully oblivious to the cold.

It was a great wedding reception also - with David Seel - DJ in charge and professional and awesome as always :) The beautiful flowers were by David's talented wife Susan.

Makeup was by Candice Turner, a very talented young lady :) - and the very cool aqua themed wedding cake by Chocolate Earth. Angela and Andrew - our congratulations and best wishes to a wonderful couple ! All the very best :)

Ryan and Logan - Action Incorporated

2008-10-02T19:07:00.008+13:00

A different type of photo shoot for me - as I'm not too speedy with my current dodgy knee issue however ::: Had a lot of fun chasing Ryan and Logan round their front yard on their bikes.
A couple of very dynamic, gorgeous little boys - "action incorporated". Logan would have been ready for a good long sleep after I left I reckon.
I had a guided tour of the yard , and demonstrations of the swing and slide and cool little playhouse where Logan played "shops". Ryan was very speedy on his bike and I had my heart on my mouth as he zoomed off down the driveway!
It was great to meet the boys - who I had met as babies and are now the dynamic duo:)
See you again boys!

Cydel

2008-08-03T09:37:00.004+12:00

Some images from Cydel's photo shoot a few weeks back. What a gorgeous wee dude!

Lyric

2008-07-29T20:54:00.004+12:00

Just a few images from Lyric's photo session last week.

Gorgeous wee girl aged 4 months - full of smiles and will be a heart breaker with those stunning looks. With all the power cuts due to the horrific storm weather over the past few days - it's amazing they have made it to the blog !

Nisha and Dave

2008-05-31T17:09:00.007+12:00

Nisha and Dave were married recently at Gracehill Vineyard in Kumeu. It was a lovely late autumn afternoon and the colours were glorious. Dave, his bestman and groomsmen arrived on Harley Davidson Motorbikes - which was very cool! We loved the "Bat out of Hell" music :) (it certainly brought back a few memories!) The weather was good - in spite of the weather reports threatening rain all week. Nisha and Dave exchanged moving vows in the gazebo by the lake in front of many family and friends. The beautiful cake was by Anita and was one of the loveliest we have photographed. The mens suits were by Frank Casey Suit hire.

Congratulations to such a great fun couple and enjoy your honeymoon :) we will catch up when you return.

Liz and Albert

2008-05-16T19:53:00.010+12:00

Liz and Albert were married at St Anthony’s Church in Waiuku recently. Liz and Albert’s wedding was a lot of fun and it was great to be photographing again in our local town.

We "grabbed" Liz and Albert for a private photo shoot on their way to their wedding reception on a family farm on the Awhitu peninsula. After an awesome late afternoon photo session, high up on the hills at the very old Kohekohe Church overlooking farmland and the Tasman Sea - we headed up the peninsula to the reception.
The location photos with the bridal party were taken on the farm as the storm clouds rolled in – giving a dramatic backdrop over the stunning valley views. The girls, wearing gowns from Modes were as stunning, as the guys were cool and we have some great photos to show you :)
The marquee was huge, with a great dance floor and the catering was from the Spit Roast Catering company
Congratulations to Liz and Albert - a wonderful couple – All the best guys! We will catch up with you again soon.

Dan and Jo

2008-05-15T21:43:00.006+12:00

Dan and Jo were recently married on a lifestyle farm in Bombay. The guests were treated to an "island" wedding - as the Jo and Dan exchanged vows, under the guidance of their celebrant Seonid Horne . The local farmlife, including Alpacas, Kune kune pigs and geese watched the ceremony from the pond edge, as well as the family and friends in the beautiful tranquil surroundings. The wedding party photos were taken on location in the gorgeous surroundings.

The wedding day was wonderfully organised by the family here in New Zealand all playing their special and important parts in Dan and Jo's day - it was very stress free and enjoyed by all.

Dan and Jo's reception was held in a marquee on the farm and the catering was provided by the Spit Roast Catering company, which I have found always gets great reviews. DJ, MC and music services were provided very professionally, as always, by Mike Steffens .

Dan and Jo have been honeymooning in Thailand and have now returned to their home in the UK. ~~ Congratulations ~~ :)

Katrina and George

2008-03-26T12:25:00.009+13:00

Katrina and George were married recently married at St Andrew's in Auckland City – followed by their wedding reception at Pinot .

It was another glorious day in Auckland and very hot weather for autumn in the City of Sails. There were lots of people out and about and some surprised looks as our bride and groom queued for a "Mr Whippy" icecream after their ceremony, with some of the children who were guests at the wedding.

Katrina was a stunning bride in a beautiful gown, which had a full lace skirt with draped silk- from Brides by Paula Midgley from Kumeu.

Katrina and her bridesmaids, all in delicious pink silk, had their makeup and hair by Colleen Hayward and Lisa Brewer at About Style.

The cars were classic Alvis models - which I did not know much about - but were in beautiful condition and the passion of many I imagine !

Flowers were from Angie J Weddings -Amazingly lovely roses in wonderul pink tones .

George and the boys looked very handsome in their suits from Exclusive suit hire.

Wedding photos were taken overlooking the Waitemata at the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial on Takaparawha. The grounds were emaculate as always, and a credit to Parks maintenance staff . There were a number of wedding parties, and seemingly, hundreds of tourists and cameras in all shapes and sizes, also having photos taken - however - there was plenty of room for us all. We captured some great moments and especially the fun shots with George and "the dress". Sorry about that George - I must remember to clarify next time what "under" meant :) :) (I hope Katrina didn't mind... too much !)

Before long it was time to rush to Pinot and enjoy the speeches, dinner and dance. It was also great to catch up during the dinner break, with our favourite wedding videographer Robyn from Moving Memories Wedding Video.

Our heartfelt thanks again to Katrina and George - who are busy relocating to Sydney during their honeymoon - it was such a pleasure to be part of your awesome wedding day - we will catch up again soon.

Kelly and Scott

2008-03-18T20:50:00.005+13:00

Kelly and Scott travelled from Australia to be married on the Sunset Coast, Karioitahi at Castaways in front of many family members and friends. It was another glorious day on the west coast with a brisk sea breeze – just enough to take the edge off the heat and lull you into thinking you might not need sunscreen…(as many people found out later in the afternoon)

Kelly was a stunning bride, wearing a beautiful wedding gown by Mariana Hardwick.
It has been a great year for bridesmaid’s gowns too! There have been so many great colours this season, such a variety of styles and fabrics. The days of the satin black bridesmaids dress has hardly featured, as it has done regularly in years gone by. Sara and Skye, Kelly’s sisters, wore knee length- beautiful swirly dresses in a dark emerald green – which we used to great effect during the wedding party photos on the beach later in the afternoon. Their makeup was by Roxanne from B.O.D, at Auckland City. Thanks ladies – were you were all gorgeous and such great fun! Scott and his brothers looked very handsome wearing nice formal suits from Frank Casey. Dante, Armani, Kees, Henry were the cute page boys and did a superb job walking through the rose petals to the ceremony on the cliff top. Constance Brown was the celebrant – and did a terrific job as always. The wedding party photos were taken on Karioitahi beach, where Kelly and Scott had both very romanitc and fun shots – including pushing a car which had become stuck in the sand!

Another wonderful wedding reception at Castaways, great food and ambience, where everyone is looked after so well, while overlooking the magnificent west coast .
Sunset that night was swift – however, we popped back to Castaways and grabbed a few great shots on the clifftop – which is a great bonus for Karamika Photography clients who have their weddings at our local venue.
Thanks so much - Kelly and Scott – a great fun couple, very much in love – all the very best to you - we will catch up after your honeymoon.

Helen and Michael

2008-03-17T15:33:00.009+13:00

Helen and Michael were married at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa recently. The wedding party photos were taken prior to the event - which is what I try to recommend to all couples, it's not for everyone, however it works really well. The guests are not left waiting while the wedding party are away having the photo session.

The weather was a little damp for a while - and black clouds threatened overhead while we sheltered under umbrellas and in a very well placed "shed" in the gardens:) Billy the outrageous Irishman and best man was full of jokes and fun. He was also great fun and help during the "flick" of the veil shots...(Yes Billy I have turned you into a conifer) Michael appeared rather nervous initially, but Helen (if she was nervous) certainly did not show any signs of it as we made your way around the gardens. Helen's and Lynda's lovely cream and blue bouquets were by the very talented ladies at Bizziblooms in Orakei.

The ceremony was held amongest family and friends in the well manicured Perennials garden. Many, many thanks to my wonderful "helper" in organising the groups for the family photos - it was much appreciated. I didn't need to use my "soccer mum" voice at all. I am sure we will catch up at a football match one day too.

Helen and Michael's lovely wedding cake was made by Helen's mum and was a gorgeous fruit cake with the little hippos :).

Many thanks to a lovely couple - Helen and Michael - We wish you lots of happiness always - and have fun during your honeymoon in Adelaide - we will see you when you get back to NZ!

Pieta and Andy

2008-03-15T19:44:00.008+13:00

Another coast to coast adventure and wedding on Waiheke for us . The ferry trip was much more pleasant this time and even managed to take some tourist" photos on the Waitemata harbour.

Andy and Pieta were blessed with a beautiful day for their beachfront wedding at the Dunes on Waiheke Island. It was great to finally meet you both – and your families, after our “long distance” relationship.
Pieta’s stunning wedding gown was a Spanish Pronovia design brought back from the UK. The wedding was very “international” with the wedding party flying in from all parts of the globe. The couple made their own unique gold wedding rings in the UK - Pieta sharing her gold with Andy:) The gorgeous flowers and bouquets were by Lotta at the Waiheke Florist Company and their wedding cake was from the Rocket Kitchen.

The ceremony was held on the beach at Onetangi, much to the delight of the local beach goers! The beach was very hot, with not a lot of shade to be found. Chantelle and Katie, looking gorgeous in their sky blue gowns - were grateful for the parasols - as were we all . The wedding Party were a lot of fun and it's not often you meet a bride willing to play football on the beach and chase seagulls -(Great stuff Pieta!) - and also not forgetting to mention the boys and the "brollies" hmmmm:) We managed a great reflection shot with Andy, Ant and Sam using one of the hip flask gifts from Andy to his best man. Pieta and Andy have returned to the UK and we send our very best wishes and congratulations to a wonderful couple:)

Keri and Mike

2008-02-25T22:12:00.006+13:00

If anyone remembers February 23rd, 2008 - It will be for the bad stormy weather - after weeks of hot summer and perfect blue skies. We started out early from home, for Keri and Mike's wedding on Waiheke and travelled a long journey from our West Coast home, crossing the Waitemata harbour on the Sealink car ferry. The rolling choppy seas did nothing for my general health - and I concentrated as best I could on catching up with the latest gossip in a woman's magazine. We arrived at Kennedy Point in plenty of time, cruised over Waiheke, with me playing travel guide to my husband, who had only been once before when the children were very small. The wind was very fierce and the huge rolling surf coming in from east side of the Island around Oneroa and Onetangi was spectacular sight.

We journeyed up to Kereru Lodge in Cable Bay, where the wedding was to be held - hoping to find everything still in tack - and it was. The girls were busy - and not too stressed - if they were worried about the weather it didn't show. The benefits of having a wedding at Kereru Lodge - is that you have room to move and there is no panic about where to take the wedding photos in bad weather. The marquee had taken an entire day to erect and was not blowing away anywhere in a hurry!.

We then ventured down to Kiwi House - where the boys were getting ready in their very nice suits from Munns- grabbed a few shots and then we were back to catch the girls, dressing and putting on the finishing touches. Loved the cufflinks - silver rugby balls ! Keri's wedding gown by Louise Anderson - was stunning and had beautiful fine detail in rouching and beading. The gorgeous red rose bouquets by Grandiflora in Remuera

Keri's friend Karen - did an awesome job with wedding arrangements - being a professional wedding co-ordinator - it was wonderful! Red, black and white was simple yet elegant. :)

Keri and Mike's ceremony was perfect - and we were soon onto the wedding party photo session - which we held in the lodge - after a quick dash up the windy wet steps.

CROUCH -TOUCH -PAUSE- ENGAGE, a new theme in wedding photos - thanks guys (a.k.a. the boys) "awesome-yet cheeky"... and ladies, you were a lovely group...easy to photograph and very friendly - thanks it was a pleasure .

Congratulations to a great couple Keri and Mike!! After another scary, hairy, ride across the harbour ((gulp)) and we were home by 9.30pm.

Private Gallery now on line. Link and password info is via Keri and Mike.

Donna and Chris

2008-02-21T21:39:00.004+13:00

Another lovely wedding held at Castaways Karioitahi recently. Donna and Chris were a great couple and lots of fun. Donna's gorgeous black dress was sourced north of Auckland at Orewa from - Chocolates for Breakfast (just the name encourages me to visit!) A surprise for Chris, (although he had suspected the dress would be different:) ) when they met prior to their wedding for a fun photo session at the beach. Donna loves animal prints and the setting at the wedding reception at Castaways was gold, black with a splash of animal print - including the cake - from Celebration Cakes in Manukau City. Donna's flowers were another totally original design from Scent "World famous in South Auckland" for the stunningly different floral designs they produce.

It was a very breezy day on the sunset coast- and I was quite relieved that Greer Dyson - (Donna and Chris's celebrant) had not worn one of her famous hats... I think it would have ended up way down the cliff in the surf and eventually made its way to the Australian Gold Coast ! Also - it was not a great day for "short" flowy dresses.... if you had a handbag in one hand and a glass in the other :)

A ring "warming" was carried out while Chris and Donna said their vows and the ladies present at the wedding were all given a beautiful red rose..

It was good to catch up with Donna and Chris the following day, with their beautiful daughters and take some family photos with Dick at Papakura.

This is a preview of a few images - A private viewing gallery has been uploaded and access is via a password from Donna and Chris.

Old photos and slideshows

2008-01-27T20:08:00.000+13:00

Over the past week I have been working on processing weddings and designing albums and squeezing in, amongest other things, producing a slideshow for my Dad's birthday.

I have discovered quite a few things... So many photos that have been taken of my Dad over the years are in really bad condition. I am sure this happens everywhere. There are the really old photos that are in albums... right through to the recent photos taken in the 90's.. Tears and spots, discolouration where fingers prints have been on glossy photos, dust - you name it - I have found it. Getting the scanner out of the cupboard has also been interesting "re-learning curve"... It's something you think is never needed again. I am very grateful for the digital age, the photos I have been taking over the past few years of my family - still are great quality and no scanning is required !

It's actually very strange doing "photoshop" on your relatives (besides getting very upclose and personal) and you come across all kinds of similarities, as happened in my case, between my father and my son... which you actually hadn't noticed before... Not until - that is - you are working removing dust and spots on a photo of your Dad, taken at the same age of your son ! Very scarey... The same tilt of the head, the smile - a shy, yet cheeky grin :)

My honest opinion and advice - if you have old photos - get them scanned now! If you don't want to, or can't do it - there are places/people who do that kind of service, a small price to pay for something very important. Put them onto disks and external hard drives - and then keep them somewhere safe. So many people wait until someone has passed away before getting things organised. In this busy life and times - it is understandable .

It's also really helpful to put the dates in soft pencil on the back of the photo - so many times you guess, and it is wrong. It is probably a good idea to get the photos in some sort of chronological order for the slideshow.

The slideshow was a great hit at the celebration. It ended up a VERY long slideshow - by the time I added bits and pieces of the past that I remembered about my Dad as I was growing up, the comedy, the music, the fun, and just some of the stuff we used to do - memories I shared with my Dad - part of what/who made me who I am today:). The show is on DVD so it can be enjoyed on the TV and computer. I have also uploaded it to the web - so that it can be viewed by family and friends all over the world who have discovered the joys of broadband.

The music for the slideshow - I had been given by Dad (many CD's and changing into MP3 files later , thanks to my daughter Ashley, I didn't quite have the patience! ) -Those songs - really made the slideshow very personal and also brought back lots of memories of my childhood.. Surpisingly, - no I am not embarrassed, I remembered the words to many of them. Trolling through many family and personal photo albums has been a track back down the good times of memory lane - something we should all do from time to time... Holidays, parties, fun times, births, weddings, school days, past work mates and jobs - brings you back to reality . I was so pleased Dad has this slideshow now and that it wasn't something put together in a rush at a very sad time. Something to think about....

Zenobie and Jonas ~ Raglan

2008-01-12T10:03:00.000+13:00

Zenobie returned to Raglan from Switzerland with her husband Jonas - to celebrate with family and friends and have their wedding nuptials.
We had a great photo shoot at Raglan :)- Gorgeous girls and fun guys! and here are a few images.
It was our very first visit to Raglan (a two hour drive from home) and we loved it - living on the same coast - and with Mount Karioi nearby (Karioi is unique in being the only snow free mountain on the New Zealand west coast with native bush in three distinct phases from sea level to mountain top) - it kind of reminded us of home -and our local beach Karioitahi. Gallery link to more images here :

Kate and Jason - Castaways

2008-01-06T22:33:00.000+13:00

Kate and Jason were married at Castaways on New Years Eve. Family and friends witnessed the event, in the very,very hot sunshine - on the clifftop overlooking Karioitahi Beach. Thank goodness for the sun umbrellas... A fun time was had on the beach for the photo shoot after we all piled into a four wheel drive and headed south -about 1 kilometre along the black iron sand. Amazingly we fitted everything in - with not quite the kitchen sink - but almost:) Gavin (such an awesome help rounding up the family for the photos - thank you so much :) and Becs you were fun! Kate and Jason it was so nice at your lovely wedding - you- were gorgeous, easy to photograph and made our job a pleasure. The beautiful flowers, totally different from anything I had seen before, were from Scent in Pukekohe. The tiny red and blue striped live fish, swimming amongest the flowers on the tables at the reception were great - not sure of what the live head count was the next day though ! Gallery link to more images here:)

The sunset was stunning that evening and we managed a number of great shots including some from their first dance as husband and wife. Loved the song you chose for your first dance ~ ! :) Congratulations!!

Josie and Al's wedding 30/12/2007

2008-01-03T18:33:00.000+13:00

A quick preview of a few images from Josie and Alistair's wedding held on the cliff top at Castaways, Karioitahi Beach - on Sunday 30th December 2007. More images will be online soon and a password will be available from Josie and Al when they return from their tropical honeymoon.

It was a beautiful day on the west coast, at the base of the Awhitu Peninsula - with a strong breeze which kept the temperatures down slightly - just enough to forget the sunburning issues. High tide was around 3.30pm and there were plenty of beachgoers and paragliders galore enjoying the warm summer weather west of Waiuku.

Josie looked elegantly stunning in her gown :) The flowers were gorgeous - by Designer Flowers in Pukekohe and the girls makeup was by B.O.D., the cake- a stunning masterpiece was from Michels Patisserie in Pukekohe and Nick Logan the DJ was in perfect form - as always!
The ceremony was lovely, under the guidance of Billie - a family friend - who performed the perfect ceremony. Over 80 family and friends gathered and witnessed the event overlooking the spectacular west coast.

A great time was had by all - and we had a fabulous photo session down on the beach later in the afternoon. Thanks so much Josie and Al - and also to your fun wedding party, Lara , Emily , Sam and Steve - you were great and it was a pleasure meeting you all . Josie - your lists were invaluable ! - thanks so much:)
Castaways were, as always, the most wonderful hosts for the ceremony and reception and everyone enjoyed the atmosphere and food immensely.

Josie and Alistair

2007-12-10T19:08:00.000+13:00

Josie and Alistair are returning from Australia to be married in New Zealand later this month - and I am looking forward to their wedding. The engagement shoot went really well - they are both so relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera and have great chemistry :).. Can't wait for their big day !

Leanne and Jeremy's Wedding

2007-12-09T10:57:00.000+13:00

We had a great time with Leanne and Jeremy at their wedding on the Auckland's North Shore recently. I have uploaded a wedding collage/snapshot of a few images. We were very lucky with the weather.. But when you are dealing with weddings regularly - you always need to prepare and have a back up plan - in case of the "worst case scenario". Not being pessimistic here - just sensible and proactive.. You never know when Murphy's law will strike... (He was Irish wasn't he?)and with some Irish heritage I know all about that:)