How to work through ‘that person is copying me’ syndrome as a creative
That feeling when someone else appears to be doing the same thing as you? You're not alone. Here's how to work through it before it leaves your hands.
How to set up your camera for in-water surf photography
Taking your camera into the ocean for the first time can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the setup process I use before in-water surf photography sessions, from preparing my waterproof housing to choosing camera settings I can trust once I’m swimming.
Do you need a waterproof camera housing for surf photography?
Thinking about taking your camera into the ocean? This guide breaks down when you actually need a waterproof camera housing for surf photography, beginner-friendly alternatives, mistakes to avoid, and why shooting from shore first might make you a better surf photographer.
Camera settings for surf photography from shoreline to in-water shooting
Surf photography settings change depending on where you’re shooting from. This guide walks through the setup I use from shore to in-water shooting and how to work with different light and ever-changing conditions.
Surf photography gear: the essential setup you actually need in the water
Surf photography gear can look complicated at first, but the setup you actually need in the water is simpler than most people expect. This guide walks through the essential equipment that helps you position yourself confidently between sets and start shooting in the line up.
Best lenses for water photography: surf, shoreline and in-water shooting
Choosing the best lens for water photography depends less on gear and more on where you’re shooting from. This guide walks through the focal lengths I use for shoreline, surf, and in-water photography so you can build a simple setup that works across the ocean.
Live Like a Local: Best sunrise and sunset spots in Mount Maunganui
A local photographer’s guide to the best sunrise and sunset spots in Mount Maunganui, with seasonal alignment tips, quiet coastline locations, family-friendly access points, and the best places to watch moonrise over the Pacific Ocean.
Best waterproof camera housings for beginner surf photography
Choosing your first surf photography water housing can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the natural progression from GoPro and phone housings to mirrorless setups and professional surf systems, so you can decide what actually fits your stage in the water
11 Common mistakes in surf photography (and how to avoid them)
Surf photography can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. These 11 common surf photography mistakes are easy to make when you’re shooting in the ocean, but once you know what to look for, they’re pretty easy to avoid.
Live like a local: The 11 best coffee shops in Mount Maunganui
Start your Mount Maunganui mornings like a local. Sunrise climbs, surf sessions, and the best cafés for coffee, matcha, and gluten free treats.
Moments with Mauao: Mount Maunganui Photography Prints
Mount Maunganui is a place I return to often with my camera, drawn to the changing light, tide, and seasons. Moments with Mauao began as a visual exploration of these shifts, capturing ocean scenes and the quiet presence of the maunga during first and last light. This body of work now continues to evolve, with select pieces available and a new collection of digital art in development.
Behind the scenes of a styled surf shoot: Nostalgic Surf with Fujifilm
Go behind the scenes of Nostalgic Surf, my styled surf shoot with Fujifilm. From sourcing a vintage caravan to coordinating partners and shaping colour direction with film simulations, this post shares how the shoot was planned and delivered as a campaign-style photography experience.
How to print and frame digital art downloads at home
A practical guide to printing and framing digital art downloads at home so they feel like real artwork on your wall. Includes advice on choosing the right file size, paper type, frame style, and where to print in New Zealand.
How to create mood boards for brand photography that align the vision
Mood boards for brand photography do more than collect inspiration. They align creative direction, build client confidence, and streamline your shoot workflow. Here’s how I create mood boards that help clients trust the vision and help me deliver exactly what the brief needs.
How to build a shot list for brand photography
A brand photography shoot can feel chaotic without a plan. A shot list is your creative roadmap, it keeps you focused on must-have images, aligned with your client’s goals, and still leaves space for those spontaneous, unforgettable moments. Here’s how to build a shot list that balances structure with creativity.
The Brand Shoot Blueprint: My brand photography workflow for surf and lifestyle campaigns
Brand photography is more than pretty pictures. It’s a workflow that combines planning, storytelling, and editing. In this post I share my Brand Shoot Blueprint, the exact process I used for a styled surf lifestyle campaign, from mood boards to shot lists to final edits.
11 beginner photography mistakes I made (so you don’t have to)
When I first started photography, I made every mistake in the book; from ignoring ISO to forgetting backups. These 11 beginner photography mistakes shaped how I shoot today, and I’m sharing them so you can skip the frustration and enjoy the creative process!
Family holiday in Fiji: our stay at Hilton Denarau Island
Thinking of Fiji for your next family getaway? Here is what our week at Hilton Denarau was really like: pools, dining, day trips, and family-friendly tips.
Make a splash: Find your creative voice in surf and water photography
Ready to make a splash with your surf and water photography? Discover how curiosity, confidence, and creative experiments can help you find your unique voice in the ocean, no perfect gear required.
8 Free photography workflow tools every photographer should know about
Running a photography business takes more than great photos. These 8 free workflow tools will help you stay organized, save time, and focus on your creativity.