Three Bronze Awards at the 2026 NZIPP Iris Awards
I am so proud to share that three of my wedding images have each been awarded a Bronze at the 2026 NZIPP Iris Awards, in the Wedding category.
The Iris Awards are New Zealand's most respected professional photography awards, run by the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography for more than three decades. Every entry is judged in an open forum over three days by a panel of national and international judges, with images awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze based on technical skill, creativity and storytelling. Being recognised alongside some of the country's finest photographers means a great deal to me, and it is an honour to have three images honoured this year.
Here are the three images, and the stories behind them.
Chanel and Latham, Mansion House, Kawau Island
The look of love
View Chanel and Latham's wedding gallery
This image holds a special place in my heart. The black and white treatment suits the timeless elegance of Mansion House perfectly, and it captures the sheer joy of the sun-soaked day we spent together on Kawau Island. But what makes this photograph truly special is not the setting or the light, it is the look of pure love on Chanel and Latham's faces. That is always what I am chasing behind the camera.
Emma and Corey, Hamilton Gardens
The lift!
View Emma and Corey's wedding gallery
Emma and Corey were an absolute joy to photograph, full of energy and completely open to trying something a little different. After an engagement session at Hamilton Gardens, I knew I had to gently convince them to return there for their wedding day, and I am so glad they said yes. This image captures the magic of that location, with soft reflections and fallen leaves scattered across the water like scatterings of light. It is one of those photographs that stayed with me long after the day itself.
Tay and Jesse, The Barn
The red barn
View Tay and Jesse's wedding gallery
Tay and Jesse are two of the most photogenic people I have had the pleasure of photographing. Jesse felt a touch camera-shy in the moment, but it was clear he would do absolutely anything for his bride to be. Set against a rustic red barn bathed in golden hour light, complete with Tay's white cowgirl boots, this photograph captures the timeless, country-romance feel she had envisioned for her day. It is also a beautiful reminder of why it always pays to head back out when the light turns to gold.
A Second Iris Awards Success
This is my second time entering the NZIPP Iris Awards, having received a Bronze back in 2024 for a creative studio portrait of Carla in the Creative Wedding section. To now bring home three Bronze awards in the Wedding category feels like a wonderful step forward, and I am incredibly grateful to every couple who has trusted me to tell the story of their day.
If you are planning your wedding and would love romantic, timeless imagery with genuine, candid moments woven throughout, I would be honoured to hear from you. Get in touch to check availability for your wedding date.
