Couples

Outfits

One of the most important things to consider for your shoot is what you’ll be wearing. You’ll want to look and feel your best, so bring a few outfits with you. We’ll have time to change twice during your shoot, especially if we switch up locations. This can give your photos a fresh and dynamic look.

Opt for soft, natural earthy tones that complement the rugged Central Otago landscape. Think metallics, neutrals like black, cream, and navy, or classic denim. If you love flowing dresses, bring them along—I’m a fan too! Anything that moves beautifully on camera is a winner.

Feel free to accessorize! Scarves, hats, denim jackets—throw them in the car. If they don’t work out, no worries, but sometimes an accessory can add a perfect touch to your photos.

A quick note: please leave the Hawaiian shirts and bold, distracting patterns at home. Neon colors and bright reds or oranges can overpower the scene. Small patterns, like delicate flowers, can work nicely.

Our goal is to highlight the love and scenery, so keep it simple and let the natural beauty and your family’s connection shine through.

Comfort is key, so wear something that reflects your personality. Also, keep in mind we might be walking up hills and over rocks, so sensible shoes are a good idea. If you’re a heels enthusiast, no problem—we’ll just carry them to the shoot location.

Props

I’m a big fan of props! Whether it’s stylish accessories like hats and scarves or something fun like oversized blankets, I can make it work. Feel free to bring along champagne glasses, picnic baskets, or anything cute you have in mind. And if you’ve got a cute puppy, they’re more than welcome too!

For some inspiration on colors and patterns that look great in outdoor portraits, here’s a link to a Pinterest board. It’s packed with ideas to help make your session even more special.

Hair & Make up

Feel free to get your glam on! If you’d like a little extra help, you can book a makeup artist in Queenstown who will come to you before your shoot starts. If you prefer doing your own makeup, just bring some setting powder or spray to keep it fresh all day.

Avoid sticky lip gloss that might catch in your hair—especially if it’s windy. A hairband can be handy too. Remember, windswept hair can look stunning, so don’t worry if it gets a bit tousled!

Here’s a list of our favourite makeup and hair artists in Queenstown to help you look and feel fabulous for your shoot:

Makeup Artists:

Amanda: @yourstylehairmakeup

Claire: @BeautifulBridalHair

Kirsty: @Kirsty.makeupartist

Tina: @Hairtowedbytina

Georgie: @georgie_hair_makeup

Juliet: @jetmakeupartist

Yanisa: @yanisa.makeupartist

Christie: @tussockhairandmakeup

Liv King: @livkingmakeup

In-Salon Pampering:

Pure Hair Studio: @Purehairstudio, 12 Hylton Place

Crew Hairstylists: @Crewhairstylists_Queenstown, 22 The Mall

Feel free to reach out to any of these talented professionals for your pre-shoot pampering!

The Weather

What happens if it rains?

No worries—if it rains, we get amongst it! I’ll only cancel a shoot if we’re dealing with torrential downpours. Queenstown’s weather might be unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm. Moody days can add a dramatic atmosphere to your photos, wind can make dresses and hair look fabulous, and rain can make colors pop. Plus, umbrellas can be stylish accessories!

You never quite know what you’ll get with Queenstown weather, but rest assured, I’ve worked through all four seasons and know how to make the most of whatever conditions come our way. We’ll embrace the weather and create beautiful, unique photos no matter what!

Transport

Being a tour guide is also my forte! I’m happy to pick you up and drive us to all the locations, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. My car fits up to 4 people, so if you’re bringing along friends, family, or even your four-legged companions, the best option would be to hire a car and follow me. Let’s make your shoot as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

Locations

Feel free to browse this blog post about my favorite Queenstown locations, or leave the planning to me. I know this town like the back of my hand and can guide you to the secret spots, the best light, and places to go even if the weather isn’t ideal.

Queenstown’s weather can vary significantly from one side of town to the other, so don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Expect mountains, mountains, and more mountains in your photos!

New Zealand’s landscape is renowned for being natural, wild, and rugged. You can’t go wrong with a photo shoot here, no matter the weather. Let’s explore Queenstown together—whether we’re climbing mountains, skimming the shores of Lake Wakatipu, or taking a helicopter ride to a secluded spot (just us and the pilot, of course), I promise it will be a wildly romantic adventure.