About me
I feel so blessed to have a business I love and to be involved in so many beautiful weddings. Wedding photography is one of the few jobs where you’re surrounded by upbeat, happy people on what is one of the most meaningful moments of their lives.
Experience
I have worked professionally, running a photography studio since 2008. I started out in Mexico shooting up-market weddings and social events. Since the end of 2012, I have been photographing weddings in the North Island, including Hawke's Bay, Wellington Region, Manawatu, Rotorua, Wairarapa, Nelson and even Rarotonga. I have shot at least 200 weddings.
What are your strengths?
Capturing the essence of your day - the spirit and emotion of what goes on. Whether you arrive in a Rolls Royce or tramping boots, I love capturing the real you, projecting your personality and not imposing a style. Some of our couples love the elegant, formal style, while others love fun and playful (or mix). I'm open to capturing a full range of colours and traditions. Photography is a people-based industry and to be relaxed you need a friendly photographer that you can trust.
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My Style
I love capturing natural light, the essence, the spirit of weddings - turning romance, fun into art. You are unique and my photos reflect this fact. I love weddings because they require such a range of shots - candid, artistic, classic, portrait, flowers.... you’ll get them all. In editing, I tend to keep things natural, with black and whites copies and vintages thrown in when appropriate. I am very aware that certain styles date, so I focus more on beauty which is timeless. In saying this, I’ll make sure your skin looks great and natural, and that the exposure and colours are spot on. ​
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What gear do you use?
We shoot with Canon cameras in HD and 4K (including backups) using the best lenses available and edit using Adobe Suite, Lightroom, Photoshop, Premier Pro. We record your live audio using professional equipment.
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Quality
The work on my website is all from the wedding photos I took. I shoot in RAW and edit each photo for the right light, colour and emotion. Quality is my priority.
Reliability
I shoot with backup cameras and lenses and store your photos in three different places so you know your photos and video are safe before delivery. I also keep backup copies of your photos and video for two years after I deliver it to you. Azul Studios is a registered New Zealand tax-paying business.
How early do you arrive?
After photographing the groom and groomsmen getting ready. I arrive about one hour before the bride starts putting on her dress. This way I have time to shoot important details such as rings, jewellery, wedding gown and the bridal party enjoying the moment.
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How long do you stay?
I charge by what happens, not by the hour. That way, you’re not worried about any additional costs and can relax and enjoy your day. For example, my Full Coverage photo and/or video package covers everything, from the time you and your partner are getting ready to the First Dance. De Luxe Photo also includes guest dancing, sparkle and night shots and a Premium quality Photo book.
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How many photos do you deliver?
Capturing all your special moments requires taking lots of photos - thousands of photos. Depending on your event, by the time I select and edit your photos, you’ll get at least 1,000 photos for a ‘Full Coverage’ or 'De Luxe' and at least 500 photos for an ‘Up to Reception’ package. I edit your skin in a natural way when necessary, do colour correction, edit your photos in the style that captures the essence of your wedding, and include b&w photos.
How long does it take you to deliver?
It does depend on the time of year. It can take up 4 to 6 weeks. Editing photos and videos is an art form that really shouldn’t be rushed. I’ll include a delivery time in your contract.
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Can we copy our photos and/or video?
Absolutely. I encourage you to copy and share your beautiful images with whomever you’d like, as you also have the copyright to all your photos. I also give you internet resolution copies of your photos, so you can upload and share them online.
Will you post our pictures on Facebook or Instagram?
I’d only post with your permission a sneak peek of your wedding photos and your video trailer, as many of our clients have family and friends overseas.
How can we reserve our date?
With a 20% payment.
What are your payment options?
I am flexible in this regard, but find most people prefer to pay in instalments, with 80% paid by your wedding date. The final instalment is due two days before delivery of your wedding photo and/or video package.
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Can we upgrade our package?
Absolutely. If at any time in the future you’d like to upgrade to any of my wedding packages. You might book me for an ‘Up to Reception’ package and then find that my ‘De Luxe’ Package suits you better.
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Can we get shots of our children as well?
Children bring so much joy to a wedding and I enjoy photographing the joy they add to photos. I often use the day as a perfect chance to get some great family shots.
Do you sub-contract out your work?
If you wanted additional shooters, I could arrange this at a reasonable price. In an emergency situation, I subcontract my work with two well known professional photographers.
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Can you work with another photographer/videographer?
Sure - over the years, we’ve really enjoyed working with other professionals and it's always nice to meet people who share a similar passion.
Why don’t you charge for travel?
I enjoy getting out and exploring and enjoy finding those hidden gems. I also find my clients love the fact that my final prices are on the website.
How do you keep your prices affordable?
I am a boutique photography and videography studio and work to keep my overheads low. These savings are passed on to you.
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