Capturing Love, Laughter and Every Perfectly Imperfect Moment

Hi I’m Rochelle

Before I capture some of the most meaningful moments of your life, it feels only fair that you get to know a little about me, too.

I’m Rochelle, a beach-loving, light-chasing wedding photographer based in Tauranga, with a pretty easy-going approach to life and a genuine love for adventure.

I believe the best photographs come from real connection, which is why I genuinely love hearing people’s stories. Every couple is different, and getting to know you is one of my favourite parts of what I do. Add a few laughs, some good banter, and maybe a shared love of adventure, and we’re off to a pretty great start.

So, here are a few fun facts about me. Nothing too polished or serious – just real life, just like the photographs I love to capture.

Papamoa is home

We call an old beach house in Papamoa home. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Our little slice of beachy chaos is home to my family. We share a love for outdoor adventures, camping and love to play in the water.

Our home is relaxed (with admittedly too many houseplants) and quite imperfect. Living life is more important than perfection – maybe that’s why I’m so drawn to photographing stories that feel the same way!

My First Photography Gig Was in Adventure Capital Queenstown

My first (professional) photography journey started in Queenstown, photographing people bungy jumping, rafting, and taking on all sorts of adventure activities, which admittedly was living the dream!

Queenstown also has a special place in my heart as it’s also where I met my best friend, who later became my husband, Nick.

These days my camera comes almost everywhere with me, cycling adventures, beach evenings, and travels both around New Zealand and overseas. Nick’s one of the most patient blokes in the world. Left is a pic of him being just this, in a spectacular spot in Nusa Lembongan, one of my happiest places to hang out in Bali. I can’t help it, beautiful light and beautiful places always stop me in my tracks.

Weddings Have Had My Heart for Over 15 Years

It all started nearly 20 years ago when my best friend asked me to photograph her wedding. If I’m honest, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about it at the time. But somewhere between that first wedding and the hundreds that followed, I completely fell in love with photographing people in love.

Now, more than 15 years into photographing weddings professionally, I still can’t believe this is what I get to call my job. It’s a privilege I’ll never take for granted.

What I value

Family. Kind humans. Beautiful light. Moments no one plans for, adventurous spirits and plenty of laughter.

Wherever I go, my camera is usually close by. I love exploring new places, mountain trails, and turning everyday scenes into something more through in-camera techniques. Creating images that capture a feeling or mood is my happy place

some of my personal favourites

I’m a Sucker for Beautiful Light

Ask any photographer and they’ll tell you, light is everything.

I’m always watching how it falls, whether it’s the soft glow of golden hour, light filtering through the trees, or those beautiful little sun flares that appear at just the right moment. It transforms an image, adding warmth, atmosphere, and a little bit of magic.

I’m completely obsessed with finding those moments where the light does something special.

I’m Probably Laughing With You Behind the Camera

If there’s one thing my couples often say, it’s that I make being in front of the camera feel easy. I know having a camera pointed at you can feel a little awkward at first, so I keep things light, natural, and fun, and I’m always up for a good laugh.

One of the greatest compliments I receive is when couples tell me it felt like having an old family friend there on the day. The funny thing is, that’s often exactly how it feels for me too. Spending one of the biggest days of your life alongside you is something I never take for granted, and it genuinely warms my heart.

I’m All About Real, Honest Moments (No Posing Required)

If the thought of awkward posing makes you cringe – don’t worry, you’re not alone. I believe the most beautiful moments happen naturally.

That said, we all need a little help in front of the camera, and it’s my job to help you not only feel amazing.

My goal? To have you laughing, relaxed, and fully immersed in your day, while I work quietly, capturing the real stuff.

I’m an NZIPP Master Photographer

Yeah yeah a fancy title I know. In 2019, I received my Master of Photography from the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP). That means I’ve spent years honing my craft, submitting images, and winning a few awards along the way.

But what makes me proudest isn’t the titles, it’s the trust my clients place in me to capture one of the most important days of their lives.

In 2025, I earned my Master of Distinction, and the same year I won the New Zealand Creative Wedding Photographer of the Year. In August 2026 I won the APP International Wedding Photographer of the year + International Classic Wedding Photographer of the year.

The Best Moments Happen When You Forget I’m There

Keeping in mind that some of the most beautiful moments happen when you don’t even realise I’m there. I’ll quietly observe, blend in with your guests when the moment calls for it, and give you the space to simply enjoy your day.

Because often, the most meaningful images aren’t the perfectly posed ones, they’re the little in-between moments that happen naturally when you’re completely yourselves.

All In. Every Single Time.

People often imagine wedding photographers gliding around looking effortlessly stylish. The reality?

I’ll happily end the day with dirty feet, grass stains, and a camera full of genuine moments. If it helps capture your story beautifully, I’m all in. And I’ll love every second of it.

So no, wedding photography isn’t always glamorous behind the scenes … but you can count on two things: I’ll work incredibly hard for you, and I’ll have an absolute blast doing it.

A pretty special year

2026 AAP International Wedding Photographer & International Classic Wedding Photographer of the Year

I’m incredibly proud to have received two international awards in 2026, AAP International Wedding Photographer of the Year and AAP International Classic Wedding Photographer of the Year. A very special recognition, and one I’m truly grateful for.

iris professional-wedding creative-photographer of the year 2025

Award-winning wedding photography

New Zealand Wedding Creative Photographer of the Year 2025

In 2025, I was honoured to receive the New Zealand Wedding Creative Photographer of the Year award at the IRIS Awards, one of New Zealand’s most respected photography competitions.

While awards have never been my focus, it was a special moment and a lovely acknowledgment of the passion and care I put into my work.

At the heart of it all, my goal remains the same: creating genuine, meaningful photographs that help people remember how their most important moments felt.

When Story Meets Art

Professional photography gold award 2025

I never walk into a wedding day or photo session thinking about awards. That would mean my focus was completely in the wrong place. My focus is always on my couples, their people, and the story unfolding in front of me.

But I’m always looking for those moments where storytelling shifts beyond the expected. The moments where emotion, light, movement, and creativity come together to create something a little different. Images that don’t just show what the day looked like, but what it felt like.

The photos below are one of my favourite examples of when story meets art. It was photographed on my beloved Papamoa Beach, and here’s the part I love most, these same four humans are in every single frame.

Moments that have my heart

My Personal Favourites

Often a photo stays with me long after the day is over. Sometimes it’s the light, more often it’s the emotion, and mostly it’s the moment itself that said everything without a word. The proud tears, big hugs, cheeky kids, questionable dance moves, chaos and laughter, the beautifully imperfect, honest moments that show who we truly are. Those are the moments that have my heart.

My Approach to Wedding & Family Photography

Let’s have you feeling relaxed, confident, and fully present, so your photos feel natural, joyful, and genuinely you.

Capturing your day with a blend of honest storytelling and creativity. I take the time to understand your story and what matters most to you, capturing genuine moments as they naturally unfold. Every couple is different, so my photography packages are flexible and tailored to you.

have a look at my photography Services