Tell us about the five projects you’ve chosen as your favourites. What stands out about these in particular?

Beachlands by Day Architects – Not only does this shoot feature a playfully designed family home by Day Architects, we also had the wonderful Sam Van Kan styling our key images throughout the day. The homeowners were excited to have us and helped prepare spaces so we could capture as much as possible. There was a video team to build a client story, too, so we planned our use of the spaces well for each team to get what they needed with ease. Working with everyone led to a beautiful set of material for our architect, Lisa.

ARTTFORM installations at PWC and Park Hyatt – An important part of planning a shoot is understanding who we’re showing up for. I was invited into these beautiful spaces to hero the art installations: objects in space rather than my usual object as space, I suppose. Hearing the stories of the artists and how this experiential side of a building comes together with scale, materiality and the journey unfolding for a visitor really fascinates me, so it’s a treat every time.

Hoxha Bailey House, Freemans Bay – Another good mix of fun clients, homeowner and a house pup. I was spoilt for finishings here in a very gallery-esque home. I enjoyed walking through the second-level glassed hallway where there’s a partial third level above and an entertainment space below ground, all beautifully styled. Even with a half day, we managed to get some great coverage and the beautiful weather helped make it all sparkle.

Valhalla House by Milieu – I’ve been encouraging my clients to call around on projects they’re really proud of. If they’re excited to capture the build, it’s likely other team members are too and we can make good things happen when we work together. This project had nine companies keen from the outset so it was not only a beautiful day out with great purpose to make it shine but it expresses the importance of communicating well and ensuring we get what we need defined ahead of time, to offer each interested party a nice selection from the shoot.

Friends of St Davids/The Art of Remembrance – Auckland tends to knock over our built heritage a little fast and I have a soft spot for big spaces with reuse potential as we’re unlikely to be building with these methods or materials in the future. Not to mention the depth of history this space holds – many people felt the need to preserve St Davids. There has been a massive team involved over 7+ years working to save and reactivate the building through art and performance installations, fundraising and conversations with the public about what’s possible. With great relief, we’re happy to report the building has been saved from destruction and is continuing the process toward an occupied future.

How did you get started with photography? Did you always have an interest in architecture or has that evolved over time?

I first enjoyed seeing images come to life with my own two hands while shooting film and making prints in the darkroom as a teenager. I’d been interested in architecture and the built environment from a young age and when I’d gained my architecture degree and entry into the Master’s course, I was thinking again about image making and how it may all work out in the future. A quick few photography papers later and off I went to work in the industry from a different angle, feeling grateful to meet some very inspiring creatives along the way.

How do you go about capturing a space?

Everything starts with great communication. I’ll have a chat to learn about who is interested in the shoot and what we want to achieve from the day, then have a look through plans, forecasts and any local drone restrictions. I’ll introduce myself to our lovely homeowners or office/team members and get to work. It’s a real treat to bear witness to the hard work that goes into these projects and hear the challenges and success stories from all sides. Often, we’ll have a quick walk-through to refresh favourite aspects and lightly plan the day. It’s important to me that people on site enjoy the process as it helps build a bit of good banter for a fun day and anticipation for the resulting proof images. We go about keeping an eye on the sun and time a couple of flights, then the usual on-foot exploring of spaces until dusk, tidying or lightly rearranging where needed but otherwise letting the space tell the story as is. To close a shoot day, all lights are on for some hero images and then we say our thankyous and farewells.

What inspires you outside of work?

Friends and family. I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by some exciting and very driven people. When we can manage to put time aside, an overseas trip or local roadie always helps to refresh the eyes and mind. I really enjoy languages and other people’s stories so you’ll often find me googling words or leaning in on a good tale.

Are there any projects or project types that you would love to photograph but haven’t had the opportunity to yet?

Yachts or boats designed for long trips out at sea for the different type of spatial design and storytelling. I imagine there’s some fun drone work to be had chasing the boats, with beautiful light, too. I also really enjoy smart solutions and people being kind and generous so the niche projects with a great story really intrigue me. Small functional spaces, historic renovations and initiatives that help communities strengthen through successful design and connection are really exciting.

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