hamilton & Raglan family photographer


Relaxed, Guided Family Photography That Captures the Beauty in the Chaos

Family interacting on reflective beach during vibrant orange sunset.
Close-up portrait of young family with two children showing affection outdoors.
An intimate close-up series showing a family's tender moments together in white and orange clothing.
Beautiful sunset beach scene with silhouettes against orange sky and crashing waves.
Soft focus romantic close-up shots on light background showing intimate moments.
Family of four sharing intimate moment on beach at sunset in coordinated outfits.
People gathered in field of white wildflowers on summer afternoon.
Child in denim overalls playing among blooming white daisies in field.
Family sharing joyful moments in field of wildflowers.
French Bulldog poses in foreground of family portrait in a field of white wildflowers.
Young person in denim jacket smiling in sunny meadow with white flowers.
Family walking together through a sunny meadow filled with white wildflowers.
Family strolling through a blooming meadow during golden hour.
A toddler rides on shoulders during a golden sunset at the beach.
Mother holding toddler at beach during golden hour as father stands nearby.
Family walking on a reflective beach at sunset creating mirror-like silhouettes.
Close-up of two hands with rings gently touching in warm sunlight.
Adult and child holding hands while standing barefoot in wet sand at the beach.
Family strolling on sandy beach during golden hour as waves roll in.
Silhouette of person running on beach at sunset with reflection in wet sand.
Small child in white tank top and jeans running joyfully on sand.
Mother carrying child while standing in ocean waves during Raglan sunset.
Mother and child exploring beach together near coastal cliffs at sunset.
Couple walking hand in hand on wet sand during golden hour at the beach in Raglan, NZ.
A family stands together on a hilltop during golden hour surrounded by wild grasses.
A family shares tender moments together in a sunlit field of tall golden grass.
Children lay close together on a blanket, sharing playful moments in warm sunlight.
A child laughs joyfully in the golden sunset light amidst tall grass.
A tender moment captured between parent and baby in tall grass during golden hour.
A baby in white dress reaches up with joy while supported by caring hands.
A happy baby in a lace dress reaches up with excitement against a coastal background.
Silhouettes of a family walking along the beach at sunset with waves rolling in.
A quiet moment shared between parent and child on a peaceful beach at dusk.
Silhouetted figures play joyfully on a scenic hillside overlooking a golden sunset beach.
Couple enjoying a romantic moment on a beach at sunset with reflections in the wet sand.
A couple wearing white outfits smile while standing on a rooftop with urban buildings in background.
Family watches child riding blue bicycle on urban rooftop with city buildings in background.
Children play with bikes and scooters on Hamilton rooftop carpark while parents watch.
Adult and child playing together on urban rooftop parking area.
Children riding scooters on Hamilton rooftop carpark while adults watch in background.
Toddler in checkered sweater smiling while holding yellow scooter on rooftop.
Two children with scooters playing on urban rooftop.
Family sitting together on coastal rocks during sunset by the ocean.
Family walking together on a beach at sunset with cliffs in background.
Group sitting together on coastal rocks during golden hour sunset at beach.
Young boy in plaid jacket smiling brightly at camera.
Child smiling and playing on sandy beach during golden hour.
Child standing on beach at golden sunset wearing brown cardigan over white shirt.
Intimate moment between parent and child sharing laughter in warm sunlight.
Silhouettes of people walking through tall grass field at sunset.
Family walking together in a golden meadow during sunset.
Couple walking hand in hand through a grassy hillside at sunset.
Couple in casual wear walking together on a hilltop during golden hour.
Family walking through golden beach grass at sunset along coastal path.
Close up of couple holding hands on beach with cropped view of formal attire.
mother and daughter embracing and smiling warmly at sunset on the beach.
Tender moment between mother and son against warm sunset backdrop.
A small group sits together on fallen leaves in a wooded area during golden hour.
Young person in white and pink dress smiling brightly in forest setting.
Young person in black t-shirt smiling outdoors with sunlit trees in background.
Mother and daughter share a joyful moment together in a sunlit forest setting.
A family plays and laughs together on a beach at sunset.
Silhouettes of people walking along a beach shoreline during golden hour.
A group enjoys a peaceful moment in tall golden grass by the ocean.
A white dog joins a family moment in tall grass during sunset.
Close-up view of a child and mother's hands together
Soft focus portrait with gentle sunlight creating a warm, dreamy atmosphere.
Figure in white clothing walks through golden beach grass at Raglan sunset.
Family and their dog gather among coastal grass at Raglan sunset by the ocean.
Silhouetted family walking on beach during golden sunset casting long shadows on wet sand.
Family with dog strolling along shoreline during sunset with reflections in wet sand.
Intimate outdoor family moment captured ialong the Waikato River during golden hour.
Family walking through golden grass at sunset in a coastal landscape.
Close up of hands holding together while walking through beach grass at sunset.
People walking along a beach leaving footprints in the sand during golden hour.
Family enjoying playful moments together on a sandy beach at sunset.
Child in white outfit running on sandy beach at sunset leaving footprints behind.
Panoramic sunset view of coastline with mountains and golden light.
Candid moments captured at the beach with ocean waves in background during sunset.
Coastal landscape panorama with grass and ocean waves at golden hour.
Bare feet splashing in shallow beach water creating reflections on wet sand at sunset.
Family walking along misty beach shore at sunset with mountains in background.
Group wearing white and black outfits playing in ocean waves at dusk.
Black and white photo of small child crawling on wet beach sand.
Family playing and drawing in sand on peaceful beach at sunset.
Tender moment captured during sunset at beach.
Couple sharing tender moment on hilltop during golden hour.
A baby in a white sweater being lovingly embraced by parents in warm sunset lighting.
Couple walking together on a scenic coastal hill during golden hour.
Romantic couple standing on grassy cliff overlooking ocean at sunset.
Two people silhouetted against coastal landscape and cloudy sky.
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What to expect


A Family Photographer

Who Knows How to Work With Real Life

Two silhouettes on a beach at sunset with pink and purple clouds reflecting in the wet sand and ocean waves.

I’m a Hamilton family photographer specialising in gently guided sessions, created for families who want professional, timeless photographs — without the pressure of having to “get it right” on their own.


You don’t need to know what to do. With over six years of experience, I know how to guide, direct, and communicate in a way that helps everyone feel comfortable. It’s why so many families, even those who don’t love being in front of the camera, walk away saying it felt easier than they expected.


As a mum to three myself, I understand the real life chaos that comes with having young kids, and just how unique every child can be. I know how to meet them where they’re at, keeping things moving, confidently guiding (or pivoting) when needed, and creating space for connection in between.


For a lot of mums, a family photoshoot sits on the to-do list for months (sometimes years). It feels like too much to organise, so it gets pushed aside… until suddenly your kids have grown into completely new little people again. This is your chance to finally cross it off, have something real to hold onto from this stage, with you in the picture too.

Family sessions are generally held either in the comfort of your home, or outdoors at one of my recommended Hamilton or Raglan locations.


Outdoor sessions are scheduled in the last hour of the day, when the light is soft, flattering, and consistent with the look you see throughout my work.


You don’t need to have a location decided before booking. I’ll guide you through options and we’ll finalise everything closer to your session, once you’ve had time to explore what feels like the right fit for your family.

A series of black and white romantic photographs showing intimate moments between a couple on their wedding day.

Photography is the closest

thing we have to a time machine.



The way your children laugh together, the chaos of siblings running wild, the quiet hugs that come when you least expect them — these are the moments that pass in a blur.

Family photographs let you hold onto them, long after the season has changed.

how it works

The easy process

A series of black and white photos showing smoke being exhaled in an artistic sequence.
1 - book your session


Enquire to secure your date with a booking fee and receive everything you need to prepare.

2 - experience Your guided session


Enjoy being together as a family as I guide you through your photoshoot experience.

3 - View your preview gallery


2-3 weeks later, you’ll receive your preview gallery and will be able to make your selection of your favourite images (& purchase more if you'd like to).

4 - enjoy your images


1 week later, your final images will be ready to download and enjoy.

 

Ready to hold onto this season?

 

A heartwarming candid moment of parent and child sharing joyful laughter while cuddling together on a couch.

THE sIGNATURE

FAMILY PACKAGE

 

Priced at

$850

 

Included in your package:


  • Your 60min in home or outdoor family photography experience. (immediate family only)
  • What to wear and preparation guide.
  • Access to curated client wardrobe (for māmā and kids)
  • Mileage within 40 km of Hamilton CBD.
  • 15 digital images of your choice, lightly retouched, delivered via an online gallery. (Expect roughly 70+ to view & choose from)
  • Image security with 12 months access to your online gallery.

Availability is limited so to ensure availability it is recommended to book in advance. $200 booking fee, required at time of booking is deducted from total. Remaining balance due on your session date.

Enquire now
Silhouettes of people walking through tall grass on a beach at sunset with golden light streaming across the landscape.

Add Ons Available:

Additional Digital Images:


  • 1 additional digital image: $39
  • 15 additional images: $250

(So you'll receive 30 images in total)

  • Full digital gallery: $500

(So you'll receive 70+ images in total)


Digital image upgrades can be purchased anytime during the 12 months your viewing gallery is open

Travel Fee's:


  • Mileage of 41km-60km of Hamilton CBD: $150

(This includes Otorohanga, Putāruru, Te Kauwata, Te Aroha, and Whangamatā)

  • Mileage of 61-90km of Hamilton CBD: $200

(This includes Tauranga, Papamoa, Katikati, Pauanui, Waihi).


For travel outside of these distances please get in touch for a custom quote.

studio hire:


  • Starting from $115


Subject to availability

extended family:


  • Extended/multiple family session upgrade: $250



Generally, one additional family member (e.g. aunty or grandparent) are fine to include for free. If in doubt, feel free to ask!

don't just take it from me,

here's what others are saying:

client feedback


Gemma Carlson


"You made us feel so comfortable and relaxed, listened to what was important to us to capture and produced the most incredible family photos. It felt like we were working with a friend. Can't wait to book in our next session with you"

A tender moment captured in a series of photos showing affectionate gestures in an outdoor setting with soft natural lighting.
don't just take it from me,

here's what others are saying:

client feedback


Ash McLocklan


"The process from booking through to getting our photos was seamless - so easy! The shoot was fun and effortless (we’re not photo people so that’s saying something) and I don’t know how you did it but you managed to capture the personalities of our crazy babies perfectly through your lens!"

Joyful family moments captured in white as parents embrace their newborn.
don't just take it from me,

here's what others are saying:

client feedback


Hana Baker


"Catherine not only is amazing at what she does but her photoshoots are always such a special experience, making you feel so comfortable, and beautiful. She's an expert at getting the shot, even with unwilling children!"

Tender close-up series showing a sleeping baby being lovingly held against soft white fabric.
don't just take it from me,

here's what others are saying:

client feedback


Del Bredesen


"Her professional and calm approach was so amazing. I was blown away with her patience and gentle nurturing of our wild child especially since it was a sunset shoot on a Friday night after a hectic week. Her kindness made us relax and enjoy every moment even amongst the chaos."

Sweet lifestyle photos of siblings bonding with their new baby on white bedding.

FAQ

What do we wear?

I always recommend dressing in a way that feels most comfortable to you. That being said, certain colours and styles definitely photograph better than others so once you have confirmed your booking I will provide you with a pdf guide which will have all the information you need about what to wear and how to prepare.

How long does a typical family session last?

Generally you can expect the session to last around 60 minutes.

That being said, some sessions are slightly shorter, some longer. It really depends on each unique family/how long it takes me to capture a gallery of beautiful variety.

Do you do outdoor sessions earlier in the day?

I try not to, but if it can't be avoided we can usually make it work by being strategic about our location choice.


I prefer to shoot in the evening as close to sunset as possible because this is when the light is softer and more flattering and it makes a big difference to the look of your final images

How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?

As long as your selections are sent through within 7 days, final galleries are delivered by 4 weeks after the session.

What if my house isn't very photogenic?

I've spent years learning how to read light and work with all kinds of spaces. All you really need is a good source of soft light and a bit of creativity! If you're really unsure though, feel free to send me through some photos of your space and we can chat further about if it will work.

Do you do payment plans?

Full payment is required by the date of your session. By now pay later is available via Klarna.

Can my pets be included?

Yes of course! Pets are a part of the family. I'm comfortable around dogs and would love to include them for you as long as your chosen location permits it.

what kind of retouching do you do?

Your final images will have light retouching done on them. This means I personally go through each image and remove distractions and anything non-permanent. Distractions include things like people in the background. Non-permanent things include blemishes, scratches, bruises, snot (hello toddlers). This keeps the images as true to you as possible while ensuring they are something you can beautifully and proudly display around your home in print. I don't "make people skinnier" or do extensive image manipulation. That being said, I always want my clients to love their images so if there's extra work desired beyond what I would normally do I'm always happy to discuss if it is possible and provide a quote or referral where possible.

Does your client wardrobe include baby and kids?

Yes! I have a range of items for mama, kids and baby.

What if it's raining on the day of my session?

If it's forecast to rain, we'll look at postponing your session. I am very mindful about the volume of work I take on, this means I usually have a reasonable amount of flexibility and a postponement date available within a week or two of your planned session.

I will generally only confirm a postponement a day before the session however as forecasts can change quickly.

Print & Keepsake Services


Albums, Frames and prints


In a world where thousands of images live quietly on our phones, it’s easy for even the most meaningful moments to disappear which is why I'm so passionate about printing your images.


I have a range of beautiful, high quality printed products you can purchase directly through your online gallery. These will be shipped directly to your doorstep making it easy to enjoy your images beyond a screen and fill your home with the most beautiful artwork.


Because the true value of photography is how often these photographs bring you back to relive these precious memories.

Artistic flat lay arrangement of white photo frames with silk ribbon and dried flowers on beige background.
Close-up sequence showing hands counting and sorting Euro banknotes on a white surface.
A black and white photo collage showing a baby sleeping peacefully in different positions.

view a full maternity & Newborn gallery

An example of what you can expect from our time together

Ready to Book?


Because these aren't just photos, this is your time machine.

enquire now
Silhouetted family standing together on beach at sunset with golden sky and ocean waves in background.
Close-up photo series showing hands holding and interlocking fingers in warm lighting.
still need some convincing?

see some previous sessions: