Kate Robinson Photography

I have a new blog + a new website!!!

2011-07-06T12:21:00.003+12:00

I started this blog back in August 2009 and this is my 113th post. I'm pleased to say things are moving forward and I now have a NEW blogsite!

I will no longer be updated this blog, so please come and check out my new space at http://katerobinsonphotography.com/blog/ I also have a video on the new site (!!!!) which you can check out here - http://katerobinsonphotography.com/

Auckland Wedding Photographer: Sam & Esme

2011-06-24T13:48:00.000+12:00

Sam & Esme were married on a VERY wet, dark Saturday a few weeks ago. Even though lots of brides worry about the possibility of rain on their wedding day, from my experience rain is never a problem, and I happen to think it just might make the day even MORE exciting. Sam & Esme, thank you. Thank you for not letting the weather phase you in the slightest, thank you for being an amazingly fun couple to photograph. I had so much fun on your gorgeous wedding day, enjoy the photos x

PS- You can see Sam & Esme's beautiful sun filled engagement session here. :)

PPS- Massive thank you to my amazing sister Lydia who was my assistant on this wedding x

Kohi Beach, Auckland Engagement Photographer: Jenna & Mike

2011-06-17T17:41:00.001+12:00

Jenna first heard about me from the amazing bridal inspiration blog, Magnolia Rouge. When we arranged a meeting together, I loved how joyful Jenna was and how they were both so obviously excited to be planning their big day. I was really looking forward to their engagement session because these two are nothing but gorgeous people with beautiful smiles!

Jenna & Mike, I was honoured to capture this exciting time in your lives and I can't wait for your wedding at The Wharf in February - I know it will be simply stunning. xx

Jenna, you are beautiful.

Australian adventures.... Cairns + Darwin

2011-06-13T15:53:00.001+12:00

Most people know that Sam and I are moving to Melbourne for a little while, as explained in this post. Before we moved over we really wanted to see more of this huge country we would be spending a bit of time in so we planned a holiday up the top of Australia (around Cairns & Darwin).

We had an amazing time experiencing so many different things & witnessing many beautiful sights. We also discovered a lot about ourselves on this trip! Like - discovering what the optimal amount of time was for us personally to be on holiday (before we started to miss daily routine, friends, family and reliable internet...sad but true!). Sam discovered that he gets sea sick which wasn't completely ideal when we booked an overnight trip on the Great Barrier Reef..., I discovered that I loved sailing & diving :), we discovered that we would rather not stay at backpackers, the value of wearing practical shoes when walking long distances (not the ballet flats which I thought went with my outfit perfectly...!). Budget campervans were more like sleeping in a coffin with thousands of mosquitoes... but most of all that we both felt privileged to be experiencing such a beautiful, unique landscape.

Even with the beauty of hindsight... I wouldn't change a thing. The little things that I look back on now are what made our trip hilarious, different, and full of exciting adventure. Enjoy the photos! (taken by iPhone4 + Canon 5D Mark11 and all processed by iPhone app Cross Process)

These were all at Cape Tribulation, up the coast from Cairns.

We stayed at a birdwatchers lodge :)

Yes I was freaking out about snakes in the long grass...

This was at the Granite Gorge campsite, amazing rocky gorge and friendly rock wallaby's!

Gorgeous!

Holding a black headed python!

wasn't the most relaxing thing I've done..

Amazing Aboriginal art at Kakadu out from Darwin

The photograph on the right is from the Deckchair cinema in Darwin, very cool!

Happy Monday! xx

Auckland Engagement Photographer: Emma & Steve

2011-06-03T08:35:00.000+12:00

Emma & Steve had been together a few years when Emma organised a relaxing weekend away for them both. This turned out to be the perfect opportunity for Steve as Emma had planned the weekend so she had no suspicions of a proposal! Herald Island was the perfect location for this engagement shoot as not only is it a special place for Emma & Steve, it's a unique location with amazing light and fun places to shoot at. Emma was convinced by her friend (who she is a bridesmaid for and vice versa) Rebecca to have an engagement shoot, and I'm so happy she gave in. I'm just a teeny bit jealous of their Blenheim wedding photographer! I know you guys will have a beautiful wedding, thank you for letting me document a part of your story together. xx

Emma you are gorgeous.

Auckland ZOO Engagement Photographer: Philippa & Justin

2011-05-31T21:15:00.000+12:00

I was SO excited when Philippa said she wanted to have hers and Justin's engagement photographs at the ZOO! We had lots of fun :) I'm sorry I have made you guys wait a bit for these, I hope you enjoy! I can't wait for your wedding at the gorgeous Ascension Estate in Matakana January 2012, I know it will be stunning xx

Philippa you are gorgeous!

We are going on holiday!

2011-05-01T07:52:00.001+12:00

After a busy season of lovely weddings and before my husband Sam starts his PHD, we are going on holiday for the month of May! I feel a bit guilty because I haven't organised anything, but I figure if Sam likes to do these things, why not let him..?! So at 6am tomorrow morning we are on a flight to Cairns, Australia. Yes 6AM! Which means we have to be there by 4AM. . .Ouch. After Cairns we are going to Darwin, hello 32 degrees c! From what I have heard the trip will involve the Great Barrier Reef, bush walking, exploring, yachts, campervaning, wildlife, tripods, time-lapse photography, night diving...not too sure about that last one, but we are both completely excited with the promise of adventure. So to anyone reading this post that has emailed me, I will try to answer as soon as I can, but it may be a little delayed so please forgive me!

Mantells Wedding Photographer: Melissa & Brett

2011-04-30T13:39:00.000+12:00

Melissa & Brett live in Cananda but came back home to NZ to be surrounded in their closest family and friends on their wedding day. I didn't get to meet Melissa & Brett before the wedding but it didn't matter in the slightest. When I arrived at Melissa's parents house the morning of the wedding, Melissa was calm, collected, absolutely radiant and ready to marry her man. I LOVED that we had photographs before the ceremony - wedding days always seem to go more smoothly when the majority of photographs are taken before. Melissa & Brett, thank you so much for the incredible privilege it was to capture your beautiful intimate wedding. I wish you a lifetime of happiness together xx

First look time...

On to the ceremony..

I LOVE Mantells. I could shoot their all day, it was seriously amazing! Every corner was beautiful.

Queenstown Wedding Photographer: Melissa & TeMarae

2011-04-29T09:45:00.001+12:00

A few weeks ago I was incredibly fortunate to fly to beautiful Queenstown to capture Melissa & TeMarae's wedding at the Heritage Hotel. I photographed their engagement a few months back and got to know a little more about this couple, I saw how they interacted with each other and it was beautiful to watch. Melissa & TeMarae's wedding was everything I knew it would be and more. I love how they chose to do a first look and have photographs before the wedding, to maximize the time spent with closest family and friends. It was such a relaxed, beautiful occasion that I felt privileged to be part of xx

First look...

A few photos surrounded by Queenstown's breathtaking scenary.. there was so many gorgeous options for photo locations it was quite overwhelming!

The ceremony was held on the balcony of the Heritage Hotel overlooking the lake.

Melissa & TeMarae surprised guests with a cruise around the lake on Queenstowns iconic vintage steamship, Earnslaw.

Sailing off into the night..

Auckland Engagement Photographer: Emily & Phil

2011-04-28T13:28:00.000+12:00

I first met Emily at the Grand Wedding show I did last September. I found out she and Phil went to Hamilton high schools, I went to Waikato Diocesan at a similar time, so we know some of the same people. Lots of couples I am booking at the moment seem to know each other, I love this because sometimes I imagine that if my couples knew each other they would be friends. I am SO incredibly excited to be photographing Emily & Phil's Hamilton wedding in February and I have no doubt that their Red Barn wedding will be absolutely beautiful. Emily suggested a place with long grass for their shoot, as we were walking around Mount St John Domain we were chatting and Emily told me she does karate! I love that underneath her soft, gentle presence she could break a piece of wood in half if she wanted... :) xx

Auckland Wedding Photographer: Sonjia & Seleni

2011-04-25T18:13:00.001+12:00

Sonjia & Seleni's wedding was on a glorious sunny day (love). Lots of people think it must be hard to photograph a wedding when there is no cloud cover, and although I'll admit it isn't as easy, I love that sun-flare and gorgeous light I get on a clear sky day. The vibrant colours, the joy and celebration and the passion that Sonjia & Seleni's guests so obviously had for this couple were my privilege to capture. xx

The songs were sung with passion. I won't lie, it gave me goosebumps.

Could not get over the gorgeous little flower girls eyes!

Sonjia is a dancer, hence her amazing flexibility!

The Grand Wedding Show - April 2011

2011-04-23T09:54:00.001+12:00

Last Sunday I had a space at the Grand Wedding Show in Auckland at the Sky City hotel. I was so happy with the way my stand turned out in the end, so much so I was sad to take it all down at the end of the day. I wanted my space to not only be used display my photographs, but to really inspire brides & grooms for creative ideas to use in their wedding. The wonderful Annie Oxborough kindly lent me her lovely vintage wallpaper and round table for my space. Big thank you to my sister Esther who helped me set everything up. I loved having the chance to chat with so many brides (and grooms) to be, hearing their ideas & plans for their wedding always gets me excited! I also love wedding shows for the chance to meet so many amazing people in this incredible industry! The boutique bride was the stand next to mine, love these girls! Check out NZ Weddings magazine's blog for more photographs of the day.

Please excuse the quality of these photos, taken with my iphone..!

Hamilton Wedding Photographer: Stuart & Olivia

2011-04-16T22:06:00.002+12:00

Stuart & Olivia won my engagement photo shoot competition last year. I chose the winner based on the most 'creative' proposal story - subjective I know! Whenever you put the word 'creative' into something, it always will mean different things to different people. So despite the bad choice of wording for my competition criteria, Olivia & Stu just stood right out to me. I mean what could be more creative than an accountant who made an incredibly unique art exhibition to propose to his girlfriend! (Check out their proposal story in the comments section down the bottom of this post) During Olivia & Stu's engagement shoot I got a strong sense of how much these two meant to each other. Immediately, I was SO excited for their wedding as I knew it would be an amazing reflection of their unique, creative and loving relationship. Olivia & Stuart, thank you for being an inspiration. xx

Olivia is a dancer so during the photos she practiced one of the moves with the boys... such a brave bride! You can check out their amazing dance here.

Their venue at the Waikato Performing Arts centre looked incredible! The 'glow' theme was carried throughout.

Each guest had a personalised favour.

Portobello Bride - A boutique wedding market. Melbourne 2011

2011-04-12T11:09:00.001+12:00

Portobello Bride from The White Tree on Vimeo.

I felt like I had died and gone to wedding heaven. Seriously! Portobello Bride was everything about weddings that I DREAM of. A few weekends ago I went to Melbourne for the Portobello boutique wedding market which was held in the gorgeous St Kilda town hall. I felt so privileged to be part of this incredible event, Kim Billing the organiser did an amazingly wonderful job, especially since this was the first Portobello market!

I am moving to Melbourne in June for a while, my husband is starting a PHD at Monash University in something to do with venom (!) - shows how much I know about science...not a lot. You can read more about our Melbourne adventure in this post. I haven't been feeling exactly thrilled to be leaving family and friends here in NZ...but going to the Portobello Bride market really did make me genuinely excited to be moving to Melbourne. I met so many wonderful, generous, kind & talented people who I can now call friends :)

Enjoy the photos! (taken mostly with iphone & Canon g9) xx

Shots of my stand. We had a little dilemma when we were setting up my tables by the stand...my booklets weren't exactly staying up by themselves, and we hadn't bought anything to hold them, so my sister Esther came up with the BRILLIANT idea of taping the booklets together to make a box to hold them in, and it worked perfectly :)

My sister Esther went with me for the long weekend, was so nice doing lots of girly things together :)

Which included lots of coffees..

..cupcakes and magazines..

...we also went to Finders Keepers, an independent design & art market, where we found lots of treasures!

I have a space at the Grand Wedding Show this Sunday, happening at Sky City in Auckland. Come and say hi! xx

Tauranga Wedding Photographer: Amy & Phil

2011-03-31T10:58:00.002+13:00

Amy and Phil met through mutual friends at an engagement party and knew pretty soon after they were destined to be together. However at the time Phil was living in Singapore and Amy in NZ, so their relationship was to be by long distance for many nights. Getting to know Amy & Phil at their engagement session really opened my eyes to the special connection these two have together. The way they looked into each others eyes, it was obvious they adored each other. Sometimes I think when you spend a little bit of time apart, it can really intensify how deep you love someone. Amy & Phil I'm sure you are enjoying every minute together - at last. It was such a joy to photograph part of your beautiful story, thank you for being amazing x

Highwic House Wedding Photographer: Nadine & Sam

2011-03-22T10:48:00.000+13:00

What a privilege it was to be able to capture this special day for Nadine and Sam. I've just read.. "Photography captures something that is lost in the busyness of life" and that is exactly why I feel so privileged to be doing this. Not only do I get to be part of those moments, but I am able to preserve the 'lost', the times that are so quickly forgotten, sometimes not even noticed, so they can be remembered and celebrated forever. I love my job! :)
Nadine & Sam had an engagement shoot with me last year which you can see here. They are going to have a big white wedding in October (which I am so excited about!) but in the meantime they had this. Enjoy the photos x

Nadine's mum hand stitched the gorgeous cushion behind the shoes. I loved Nadine's dress! She also had a matching one made for Atlanta.

Beautiful Italian words were inscribed in the rings paying tribute to Sam's Italian heritage.

Bethells Beach Wedding Photographer: Jess & Dave

2011-03-16T18:11:00.001+13:00

It has been such a privilege to capture part of Jess & Dave's story. When I did their engagement shoot, I couldn't wait for their wedding because I knew it would be full of fun, laughter and so much beauty. Jess & Dave were in Dan & Jo's bridal party last June so it was lovely to see many familiar faces. Jess & Dave, I hope you are LOVING married life - I know you will be. Enjoy these, many more to come xx

Outside Jess's house with the awesome Kombi Van!

Moment in bathroom, just before going into the church..

Married!

Kerry & Aaron - ENCORE

2011-03-14T11:24:00.001+13:00

Kerry & Aaron have to be my most photographed couple! To date, I have photographed them 5 times on separate occasions. Their Engagement, Wedding --It actually rained ALOT on Kerry & Aaron's wedding day so they didn't get many photos outside, Kerry had always dreamed of having photos in long grass with lots of sunflare, so the Encore shoot was a perfect solution :) -- Kerry's Family, this Encore shoot and in the weekend I photographed Aaron's family. So they are pretty much pros. And I NEVER get sick of photographing these two! How could I? Just see for yourself...and get prepared for a whole lot of GORGEOUS.

Kerry & Aaron, it has been such a privilege to be able to document your journey so far. Thank you for being such great friends, you are AMAZINGLY beautiful inside and out xx

My amazingly talented cousin Kirsti (kirstirose.flowers@gmail.com) made the stunning bouquet and the button hole.

Auckland Engagement Photographer: Melissa & TeMarae

2011-03-11T10:32:00.001+13:00

I first met Melissa at The Grand Wedding Show at Sky City in Auckland, back in September last year. When she came back a second time to my stand and produced a folder filled with ideas & inspiration (definitely my kind of girl!) for me to look at, I crossed my little fingers together just hoping they would allow me to be a part of their wedding day because I knew it was going to be something memorable and personal.

Melissa & TeMarae, it was so lovely getting to know you both on your engagement shoot. I hope you love these and I am SO EXCITED for your wedding in Queenstown (!) this April! xx

My video - behind the scenes

2011-03-10T11:09:00.000+13:00

I am SO excited to show you the photographs from this shoot! There was perfect light, a perfect couple, and a perfect location ahhhh! It was amazing. Ok, rewind...

So. A few weekends ago I shot a promo video with the INCREDIBLE Jared Brandon - check out his AMAZING work here. I got the idea to do a promo video through various photographers who I admire (mostly overseas) who were making videos for their business. I immediately LOVED the idea because it's a great way of connecting with YOU, so you can see how I work, but mostly so you can catch a glimpse of who I am as a photographer AND a person :) I love video, I think it really reaches people effectively. The idea of a promo videos for photographers is relatively new in New Zealand, but I'm hoping it will take off - and if you need someone for the job, Jared is your man. Seriously, 2 days after shooting the video he sent me a first draft of the video :) :) I LOVED IT!!! He managed to do this between all his wedding video editing and filming. You will not find a more passionate guy than Jared, he is super. And I get to work alongside him again at a wedding next weekend! So excited.

So here is one 'behind the scenes' sneek peak of Kerry & Aaron's shoot (which will be blogged very soon!) -In case you were wondering, Jess & Ben's shoot was also for the video which was shot at my parents house. Hope your week is going fabulously xx

Jess & Ben: Anytime

2011-03-08T18:31:00.000+13:00

I photographed Jess & Ben's wedding way back in 2009, so I was pretty excited to get them behind my camera again when they agreed to be my models for a special project (all to be revealed soon!). You guys are such amazing friends, and despite stepping on a bee, getting an electric shock (to the forehead...) AND nearly getting a nail through your foot - I think these photographs came out brilliantly :) Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU! xxx

Waikato Wedding Photographer: Hayley & Josh

2011-02-25T21:01:00.001+13:00

I went to the same high school with Josh & Hayley, so when I was asked to photograph their wedding I knew it would be gorgeous. You guys were amazing! Hayley, you were beyond beautiful. I had so much fun, thank you for allowing me the privilege it was to photograph your special day. xx

Engagement Photographer Auckland: Jennie & Andrew

2011-02-23T14:54:00.002+13:00

I photographed Andrew & Jennie's wedding last weekend! So I'm slightly behind on blogging, but to my defense I shot these two (okay that sounds terrible, photographer speak!) only a week before their wedding - but I was so pleased I did. I'm finding more & more often, couples that have an engagement shoot before their wedding are so much more relaxed on their wedding day, because they know what to expect! I love them. Everyone should have one! + they are heaps of fun (of course!) Enjoy x

-- NZ is still reeling from the Canterbury Earthquake yesterday. It's been described as one of New Zealand's 'darkest days'. My heart and prayers are going out to all the people affected by this terrible disaster. To donate to the Earthquake appeal, click here. Make sure you specify that your donation is for the 'Canterbury Earthquake Appeal'. --

I was SO excited when Andrew told me we had access to a boat for the photos

Waikato Wedding Photographer: James & Steph

2011-02-21T13:56:00.001+13:00

James & Steph were married on a gorgeous sunny day a couple of weekends ago at the Green Cathedral by Hakanoa Lake in Huntly. I had the privilege of getting to know Steph & James last June, when I met with them for their engagement photos, click here to see. Steph and James: Your love and adoration for each other is inspiring. Keep enjoying each other forever xx

Steph's garter was particularly meaningful. In a tribute to her Dad, material from his police shirt was used, as well as one of the buttons.

I loved seeing James' reaction to Steph, as she walked towards him with her Mum.

Today is our 3 year anniversary.

2011-02-16T09:51:00.001+13:00

“When the one whose hand you’re holding is the one who holds your heart.

When the one whose eyes you gaze in gives your hopes and dreams their start,

When the one you think of first and last is the one who hugs you tight,

and the things you plan together make your whole world seem just right.

When the one whom you believe in puts their faith and trust in you.

You have found the one and only love you’ll share your whole life through.”

xx

Celebrate love.

2011-02-14T18:54:00.000+13:00

Happy Valentines Day everyone! Here is some gorgeousness from the weekend... xx

Devonport Wedding Photographer: Jack & Emily

2011-02-09T11:53:00.001+13:00

Before the wedding Emily sent me a little note with her booking form that said "I'm so thrilled to have you photographing our wedding. I can't wait to share our day with you, Emily." Emily & Jack, thank you. It was such a privilege to be invited to capture your intimate, emotion filled wedding under the trees in Devonport. Enjoy x

Emily's Anna Schimmel dress was amazingly stunning.

Side note: Don't you think Emily looks like the actress Tina Fey? :)

Featured on Portobello Bride

2011-02-07T16:30:00.001+13:00

A few weeks ago Vinny & Liz's BEAUTIFUL wedding was featured on the Australian bridal blog, Portobello bride!

You can check out the feature here.

Thank you so much Kim for the feature on your gorgeous blog! I am so honoured to be part of Portobello Bride, I can't wait to present my work at the Portobello Bridal market at St. Kilda in Melbourne this March.

A bit about Portobello Bride...

"Portobello Bride is dedicated to providing you with a fresh, modern wedding planning resource that connects you with exceptionally talented, unique and creative boutique wedding suppliers in Australia and online. We believe that today’s modern engaged couple want to plan a wedding that is an extension of their personal story and style. Gone are the days of traditional cookie cutter weddings. Finally you can be a little relaxed and have fun with colour and fabulous stationery, replace candelabras with Pom Poms if you want and really express your individual style in every aspect of your wedding design."

So excited! xx

Tauranga Wedding Photographer: Nick & Kayla

2011-02-04T15:19:00.001+13:00

It was such a joy to photograph Nick & Kayla's wedding. They were so natural in front of my camera for their engagement photos, which you can see here, I knew these two would be amazing again on their wedding day! Poor Kayla actually lost her voice on the wedding day and had to whisper her vows! But that's one of the things about photography, you wouldn't know. Kayla was the most relaxed, content and beautiful bride. Nick & Kayla, I loved going through your photographs, seeing your joy and love for each other made me smile. A lot. Congratulations xoxo

Devonport Wedding Photographer: Jack & Emily

2011-01-28T10:29:00.003+13:00

Gorgeous. More to come xx

New Year, new beginnings!

2011-01-13T14:56:00.000+13:00

I've never been someone who has been afraid of change, but when I think about it...there hasn't been too many radical changes in my life so far. I am content and overflowing with happiness that I am able to have a job (if you can call it that) which I absolutely adore, I am married to an incredibly supportive husband whom I love completely, I have my wonderful family in close range, and I have forged great relationships with amazing people. 2011 will be a year of exciting changes for my husband and I, as Sam has decided to pursue a PHD in bio medical science and because of this.....(big announcement!)......we are moving to AUSTRALIA in June 2011! Melbourne to be exact.

First of all I want to emphasis that I will still be available to photograph weddings in NZ and IT WONT COST YOU ANY MORE (for travel etc.). I have and continue to book weddings for 2011 & 2012 in New Zealand. I love my NZ brides, and the great thing about photography is that it's a pretty portable career and I'm confident that nothing will change in terms of my service and availability.

I am feeling a bit sad to be leaving Aotearoa, but happy that I get to come back lots for many gorgeous weddings. I'm also excited for a change of scene in Melbourne, and for whatever this new adventure brings!

The above pic is from our camping holiday last weekend at the most gorgeous beach I have ever been to. Ever. Otama in the coromandel. Absolute paradise. I hope you're all enjoying this beautiful summer we have! I'm going to Great Barrier Island on Sunday for 10 days with my family, after a wedding tomorrow and one on Saturday. So excited!

Tauranga Engagement Photographer: Amy & Phill

2011-01-12T18:18:00.002+13:00

It all started with "I really love your photography...my boyfriend and I are not officially engaged yet..." fast forward two months, a trip to Singapore and Thailand later and it WAS official! The first time that I met Amy for coffee I knew this was a girl I definitely wanted to work with. She's incredibly sweet, genuine, and just plain lovely to be around.

Amy & Phill, I had SO much fun with you guys! You seriously are the most gorgeous couple to photograph and cannot WAIT for what I know is going to be an amazingly beautiful wedding in March! xx

Auckland Wedding Photographer: Amber + Daniel

2011-01-10T17:29:00.001+13:00

This was my last wedding of 2010- a perfect way to finish the year a week before Christmas! Amber & Dan, your wedding was perfect in every way. There are some things that you really can't control, including the weather, and I just love how even though it was pouring down for most of the day, the rain stopped at just the right time enough to have photographs outside. The weather definitely didn't dampen anyones spirits! In fact, I think the rain may have added to the excitement :) In true Kiwi style, guests were treated to Tip Top Trumpet's after the ceremony and all in all it was a FANTASTIC day. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Good! I was honored to work with you and I hope you had an amazing honeymoon in Thailand! xx

Beautiful, elegant Amber.

I was in LOVE with Amber's gorgeous bouquet! The white peony roses looked stunning. Sylvia Park Flowers (where my cousin Kirsti works) did an amazing job.

Amber went to see her Grandad, who couldn't make it to the wedding. I love these photographs, it was such a beautiful, emotion-filled moment.

Amber & Dan got married at Dan's old school chapel at St Kentigern's, which was filled with natural light - a photographers dream!

These were taken outside Auckland's High Court. As well as an amazing building, it held significance to Amber, who has completed her law degree. See? Amber is beautiful AND intelligent! Dan- you are a lucky guy ;)

Cornwall Park Photographer: Sam & Nadine Engagement

2011-01-01T10:20:00.001+13:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I hope you had a great last night of 2010 and are ready to embrace all that 2011 throws your way. I love the fresh promise of a new year, I did make one resolution which was to get up every morning at 6.30am... considering I'm still on 'holiday' though, I figure that resolution doesn't begin until I'm back home?! That's what I keep telling myself anyway.

Sam, Nadine & little Atlanta - You make a beautiful family. We hadn't met each other before the shoot, but I found out I had lots in common with Nadine and I am SO excited for their vintage garden party wedding in November! Nadine mentioned to me during this shoot that it was their Christmas present to each other :) Sam & Nadine- I was honoured to capture a little piece of your history and I hope you love these photographs as much as I do!

Gorgeous family. I love the name Atlanta, it means 'balanced' :)

I thought she was just like a little doll. So adorable!

I LOVE polaroids.

This is where I got really bad hayfever.... luckily Sam & Nadine were complete naturals, and my sniffing behind my camera (really attractive!) didn't distract them!

I love this. Nadine you are gorgeous!

Introducing....ENCORE photo shoot: Ilana & John

2010-12-24T12:56:00.001+13:00

I think the word 'Encore' is perfect for this type of shoot. The origin of the word came from: "Whenever any Gentlemen are particularly pleased with a Song, at their crying out Encore ... the Performer is so obliging as to sing it over again." With an Encore session, it's a chance for you to get in your wedding dress again and have photos somewhere you wouldn't have been able to for your wedding. You can take it as far as you like, and I promise you it will be fun, unexpected and elegant.

Ilana & John - you were incredible. I LOVE these photographs. Merry Christmas! xx

Ilana you are amazing!! So beautiful.

Brigham Cafe Wedding: Ryan & Rachel

2010-12-22T19:22:00.003+13:00

This wedding was so special for me because Rachel is my cousin! Earlier in the year I also had the privelege of taking engagement photos for Rach & Ryan which you can see here.I had so much fun at this wedding being surrounded with family and friends. Rach & Ryan, congratulations!! Your wedding was gorgeous, intimate and full of joy. I loved every second. xx

I introduced Rach & Ryan to the idea of having a 'First Look' where you see each other before the ceremony. Rach was really keen, and even though it took a little convincing for Ryan... his nerves were calmed right down after seeing Rach, and it was still amazing seeing her walk down the alise in the arm of her dad. I think you guys made a GREAT decision. LOVE these.

Olive goodness

2010-12-21T18:29:00.000+13:00

My family has a driveway lined with 10 year old olive trees and 6 months ago we decided to harvest. We were a bit nervous with how they might turn out, having never attempted bottling and curing olives before! They first needed soaking, then rinsing every night with water for a week, and finally left to sit for 6 months in a brine of salty water topped with oil.

We have just opened a bottle and to our AMAZEMENT they are DELICIOUS!! I've wrapped up a few for Christmas...which is in 3 days....3 DAYS! I can't believe how quickly it's come around! Look out for more posts coming to the blog soon...xxx

Rebecca & Anthony: Red Beach Engagement

2010-12-17T12:09:00.001+13:00

It was a perfect evening. The sun was glowing, the air was still, I had a beautiful couple in love to photograph in a gorgeous setting....what could be better?!! Seriously, I love love LOVE what I do. Bec and Ants, I had so much fun with you guys! It was great getting to know you both a little better and I am SO looking forward to your wedding in 2012! xx

We started at a cave...just a warning, this is another long post! I couldn't help myself...

I loved the dripping water.

Rebecca, you are gorgeous!!!

I am loving all the pohutakawa trees in bloom at the moment, our native Christmas trees.

Now for some glowey light...

LOVE.

Stunning!

I know Ants was a little nervous before the shoot (most guys are)....but he was a natural!

More amazing light.

Thanks Bec and Ants for a fun shoot in a beautiful location! (Bec and Ants live right on the cliff overlooking this gorgeous beach). If you live in Auckland, go visit Red Beach in Whangaparoa, I'm definitely going back!

St George's Epsom, Fables Rug Gallery Parnell: Vincent & Elizabeth Wedding

2010-12-14T21:17:00.000+13:00

Vinnie and Liz are one of the sweetest couples I have ever had the pleasure of photographing. Their wedding day was absolutely beautiful. So much uncontained emotion, so much happiness, so many amazing details. Enjoy xx This is a long post because I just couldn't decide! I have too many favourites :)

The day started at the gorgeous salon of Natasha Radonich hair and makeup on Ponsonby Road, Auckland.

Glowing Liz, ready to get married!

I adored Lizzy's parents home where the girls got ready, so many lovely places to photograph!

Their letterpressed invitations were amazing.

I think Lizzy just embodies the word elegance.

Adorable!

Lizzy's parents lived right next to St Georges Church in Epsom, which was perfect.

Husband & Wife!

Proud parents :)

I love this.

Lizzy's AMAZINGLY wonderful dress was made by the AMAZINGLY wonderfully talented Kate Dowman.

The reception was held at Fables Rug Gallery in Parnell. Such an incredibly unique place!

I loved the carpeted walls!

Personalised Olive Oil and Vinegars were at each table.

Congratulations Vinnie & Liz! I know your marriage will bring joy and blessings to many people xx

Tania Eastlake: Photographer profile

2010-12-10T15:39:00.000+13:00

Tania is just starting out with her photography business. She first contacted me a couple of months ago, we've had coffee together and I had the pleasure of taking some profile photographs for her. This girl is a doer! I sensed that from our first meet up, and I know she will go on to do AMAZING things. Tania: (and all aspiring photographers/business owners) never stop dreaming, commit to your passion and make it happen!! (I know you can) xx

Beautiful girl.

Sneak Peek! Auckland Wedding Photographer: Vincent + Elizabeth

2010-12-08T16:10:00.000+13:00

I can't wait to share more of this GORGEOUS wedding. For now, I hope you enjoy this one xx

Auckland Engagement: Mitchell & Louise

2010-12-01T14:57:00.001+13:00

Mitchell & Louise have been together since high school. I had the privilege of photographing and getting to know this lovely couple because one of their friends bought them a engagement gift voucher from me. Louise is the elegant type, I adored the way she held herself and just had a presence of grace about her. And Mitch? Well he definitely turned on the charm after I told him he was allowed to breathe whilst I was photographing :) You guys are amazing together xx

A trip to Melbourne

2010-11-30T15:27:00.000+13:00

We have been in Melbourne for the past week. Quite liked it except when it dropped from 34 degrees to 14 within the space of a day!! Wowza. Absolutely loved the little side streets with their hidden treasures, the cafes, shops & markets were amazing as was the incredible architecture. We even hired a car and drove down (or up..?) the Great Ocean Road towards Adelaide where we saw Koalas and Wallabies in the wild, tiny little settlements and beautiful land formations. I met up with some fellow wedding photographers over there which was really fun (thank you twitter & Facebook!). I have to admit I'm not CRAZY about wildlife or landscape photography like my husband - I like people in my photos! But I hope you enjoy these :) xx

Self timer love :)

and again...

Adorable!

We stayed in this gorgeous Bed & Breakfast called Butterfly Farm. The owners John and Karen were so hospitable, we stayed up quite late chatting over some lovely red wine! Would definitely recommend staying here.

Auckland Engagement Photographer Cornwall Park: Patrick + Anne

2010-11-17T18:01:00.000+13:00

Another gorgeous Engagement, I can't get enough of them! Patrick and Anne are a beautiful couple. They first met on a class field trip to Rangitoto Island having both studied Environmental Science at the University of Auckland. Anne goes to Canada very soon for a few months to work in a ski resort, they are tying the knot in 2012 and I couldn't be happier for them. xx

I adore Anne's hair in this!

I love this series with the rose, it smelled amazing - like turkish delight!

I am in LOVE with this amazing light. Natural light is my absolute favourite.

Eastern Beach Engagement Photographer: Brendan + Shae

2010-11-15T15:58:00.000+13:00

It was unexpected. Brendan is the type of guy who does things boldly and is full of adventure, but when the time came to ask Shae an important question, he didn't need adventure or hype. There was a poem and a simple proposal, to which Shae said yes. I LOVE getting to know the couples I photograph, everyone has a unique story to tell and it's amazing how 2 people, sometimes from opposite ends of the earth, find each other. Brendan & Shae are to be wed in South Africa next year, in February. To Brendan & Shae, thank you for the privilege in allowing me to capture a small part of your journey, you guys are absolutely meant to be together and I'm already jealous of your wedding photographer :) Kate xx

Intensely beautiful.

Isn't she stunning?!

Love this.

Insist on yourself..

2010-11-09T16:05:00.000+13:00

This past weekend, Sam and I went to an amazing conference called "a weekend to remember" for married couples organised by Family Life. I'd definitely recommend it! The hotel we stayed in had these bathroom products with such cute packaging - I loved the message so just thought I would share it! xx

Auckland Engagement, Cornwall Park: David + Jessie

2010-11-04T20:11:00.000+13:00

Jessie & Dave, I had so much fun with you guys! I love how you first properly 'noticed' each other after performing a Beauty and the Beast song together, and I can definitely tell that your love for each other has grown, you know... in a fantasy fairytale like way. I hope you love these photographs as much as I do, have fun at your Engagement Party tomorrow night and I am SO excited for your wedding in March! xx

Engagement Photographer Auckland, Bastion Point: Sam & Esme

2010-11-02T20:39:00.000+13:00

I had so much fun photographing Sam & Esme in the AMAZING light at Bastion Point by Mission Bay in Auckland. I loved watching Sam tease Esme and the way she looked at him all horrified, but I could tell she secretly loved it :) Even though this is the first time we have properly met, I felt like we were old friends. Sam & Esme, I can tell you guys have a special connection together, thank you for being so amazing in front of my camera and I cannot wait to photograph your wedding next June! xx

Esme you are absolutely gorgeous! Doesn't she have the most amazing blue eyes??

Amazing light, gorgeous couple...perfection!

Inspiration, the weekend, amazing location...

2010-11-01T10:26:00.000+13:00

Last weekend was spent at my parents house out in the country. I absolutely love spending time out there to escape the city rush, to just chill out, breathe the fresh air and spend time with family. Bliss. They have about 38 acres of land; on it sits an incredible old barn and stables. I love the peeling paint, the layers, the history and different textures. So if anyone is ever stuck for ideas for a shoot, I would love to photograph a couple (or family) (or wedding!) out here (only 50min from Auckland)... This had definitely inspired me, hope you enjoy the photos! What inspires you?

Impromptu shoot with my Aunty & Uncle :) Thanks guys!

:)

Hamilton Engagement: Stuart + Olivia

2010-10-28T13:09:00.000+13:00

Stuart and Olivia were my competition winners! You can check out their proposal story here. (11th one down). So, judging on how incredibly creative these two OBVIOUSLY are, I knew their engagement photos would be completely unique and they definitely didn't disappoint! Cue the water-fights and moon-hoppers! I love these. Thanks you two for being completely yourselves, I had so much fun with you and can't wait for your wedding in March!!! xx

Olivia is a dancer, Stuart a (creative!) Accountant. So their first outfits were based on that :)

Beautiful Olivia

All of these photos were taken at Olivia's Grandpas farm, LOVE the long grass

The next photos were based on their "inner child" :)

Olivia, you are gorgeous. Won't she make a STUNNING bride?!

Yes, that's a very small seat

WATER FIGHT!

The Grand Wedding Show: Photos + Thoughts

2010-10-15T19:10:00.000+13:00

This was my first Wedding Show I have exhibited at. SO much time went into this, the planning, the designing, the printing, the proofing, the hiring, the paying... :) I went in completely not knowing what to expect. I was over the moon with how my stand looked (many a night worrying about this!) I really wanted something that reflected my brand, and I think in the end it really did. THANK YOU to everyone that helped me (you know who you are!) I think when I have my own studio I'd want it to look a little like this (minus the carpet and velcro walls) :). I loved being able to talk to lots of brides about their plans, and what I had to offer. I definitely think all the hard work was worth it, I'm pretty sure I will exhibit at a wedding show again. Lots of brides are planning for 2012 out there! I have had a few bookings from the show so far.. Photographers: Do you exhibit at wedding shows? Do you find them good for your business? Love to hear from you! Leave a comment if you like.

Finshed! The day before.

The Engagement wall. Samples of Guest Sign-In books, Photography gift registry, gift vouchers.

I love the floral back of this chair.

Lollies! Lots of people have asked where I got these, you can find them here.

Information booklets.

Gorgeous sample Queensberry albums.

Front on view..

Us on the day! My husband was an INCREDIBLE help on the day, he was also good to chat to any guys hanging around in the wings. To any guys that went to the show with their fiances: YOU ARE AWESOME.

Happy weekend everyone!

PS- Check out Wedding Wise. Thank you for the feature guys!

Children's Photographer Auckland: Ramsay Family

2010-10-07T12:51:00.001+13:00

Adorable Ella. She had everyone in hysterics when she announced to everyone proudly "I'm a pig!"

Oldest Leilani. Such gorgeous names! I love all the wise looks she gave me :)

And George being a self proclaimed monkey :)

WINNER ANNOUNCED!

2010-10-03T21:42:00.000+13:00

Thank you SO much to everyone who entered my 'Win an Engagement Photo Shoot' competition. I LOVED reading all of your extremely heartfelt stories, thank you so much for sharing them.

The winners of the competition are Olivia Hartles & Stuart Buchanan with their 'Glow' proposal! Congratulations! Olivia & Stuart, your proposal story was unlike anything I had ever heard before - definitely COMPLETELY unique and incredibly creative!

Although there can only be one winner, I know it takes a lot of courage for some of you to post your personal proposal stories on my blog, into the big world wide web! so as a thank you I'd like to offer anyone who posted their story on my blog a 20% discount on an Engagement Photo Shoot. Please email me for more details :)

xx

Stand out & don't be afraid

2010-09-21T12:30:00.002+12:00

I read this today...

'The world needs people who cannot be bought; whose word is their bond; who put character above wealth; who possess opinions and a will; who are larger than their vocations; who don't hesitate to take chances; who won't lose their individuality in a crowd; who will be as honest in small things as they are in great things; who will make no compromise with wrong; whose ambitions are not confined to their own selfish desires; who will not say they do it 'because everybody else does it'; who are true to their friends through good report and evil report, in adversity as well as in prosperity; who do not believe that shrewdness, cunning and hard-heartedness are the best qualities for winning success; who are not afraid to stand for the truth even when it's unpopular; who say 'no' with emphasis, even though the rest of the world says 'yes'.'

I found it refreshing.