Location guide
Locations can play a big part in how your final images will look and feel. Each location will have it's own pro's and cons depending on what kind of session you are booking in for or even for the vision you had in mind already. So to help make this process of choosing your location a little easier, I've put together a list of my go to locations for you. If you have a different vision in mind - let me know and I can always see what else I have up my sleeve.
raglan Beach
A backdrop of waves and mountains as you walk along the beach or sit amongst some dunes. Definitely one of my favourite spots that will work and look relatively consistent all year round (Yes even in winter! The image used here was actually from an August sunset). We can get a few shots in the dunes or even dance in the waves. If you're wanting to get in the water just make sure to bring a towel and some warm clothes to change into! Also please note that it can get a bit windy at times so dress warm or have warm clothes waiting in the car. I prefer to use the main surf beach or Wainui beach. So I will meet you in the carpark outside the toilets. Please note: There is a hill to walk back up after your session so if anyone has an injury/disability or you think this will be too much, let me know and I have an alternative option we can use.
Click here to find it on the map
I will wait for you by the toilet block in the bottom carpark. (Go straight through the round about)
your home
Your home can be a perfect location to capture you and your family in their natural element. Cuddled up on the couch, kids running around with their favourite toys. The one place where everyone will be most comfortable. Being indoors, home shoots rarely have to be rescheduled, and everyone can stay warm and dry. I prefer to use a space in the house that is well lit and relatively clear of clutter. We will usually spend the first 5-10mins having a quick walk through, looking at the lighting in the rooms and let you show me your favourite spots/memories. Home sessions are booked via the 'sunset' outdoor calendar however we will often move the timing of an in home session to suit the lighting in your home and schedule.
Gilmour Studios
A large studio space with multiple staged set ups. Perfect for small intimate sessions as well as larger groups.
Address: 169 London St, Hamilton.
Entry: Main door on London St, to left of The Wooden Spoon Cafe. Side door via the carpark. Head up the elevator to level 2.
2hrs visitor parking located to the left of building. Carpark Entry code: 8832*
The Light Loft
A small, intimate studio space perfect for smaller groups, motherhood sessions and newborn sessions.
Address: 1/592 Victoria Street
Taitua Arboretum
The Taitua Arboretum is a lush green location located just outside of Hamilton, filled with lots chickens that the kids usually love to chase around. Over Autumn months this location can be a great option to get the orange leaves too! It is easily accessible however there will be a little bit of walking involved so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Click here to find it on the map
hamilton gardens - enclosed Gardens
The Hamilton Gardens are a great option for those that are looking for a wheel chair friendly option and includes a few covered locations which help reduce the need for rescheduling sessions and allow for earlier time slots when we have really sunny days (harsh lighting). The enclosed gardens however do cost for those not living in Hamilton City, can be quite busy and normally close at 5pm meaning we won't get any golden hour or sunset lighting.
Click here to find it on the map
For this location enter via gate 1 and park in the main carpark there.
I will wait for you on a seat near the entrance by the carpark. (you'll have to walk past me so you won't miss me)
hamilton gardens -
Rogers Rose garden
A great option for those that are looking for an option close to toilets. There's a few large tree's to provide shade during harsh light/earlier sessions too. This part of the gardens is also free to use for those that live outside of Hamilton City. Best used from Oct - Feb when the roses are blossoming.
Click here to find it on the map
For this location enter via gate 2 and park in the main carpark there.
You will find the entrance to Rogers Rose garden near the toilets next to the playground.
Peacockes Reserve
A perfect location for some lush forest vibes.
Click here to find it on the map
For this location park at the entrance by Bader Street - I will wait for you in my car and walk down with you to the location.
Newstead Walkway
Located on the outskirts of Hamilton this little spot is a great option for families that like a little bit of greenery and some room to run around with the kiddies. Because of the tree's we can usually get away with moving the session to about 2hrs before sunset. If you aren't afraid of eels - there's some "pet" eels at this location who love to be fed (ham apparently) - definitely a bit of entertainment for some kiddies after a photoshoot! There will be a little bit of walking involved so comfortable footwear is recommended. If you're prone to mosquito bites - it may also pay to spray some bug repellant before the session.
Click here to find it on the map
For this location I prefer to park and enter from Vaile Road. I will wait for you at the entrance there.
Karakariki Waterfall
Lots of beautiful spots around here if you aren't afraid of a little adventure(walking) and mud. This spot is located in a bit of a valley so we will generally be able to get away with photographing about 3-4 hours before sunset. Even earlier on a really cloudy day. Definitely bring comfortable footwear you don't mind getting dirty - in fact if it has been raining a bit I actually recommend you bring your gumboots.
CLICK HERE TO FIND IT ON THE MAP
For this location I will wait for you in the carpark.
Waikato river
A little spot by the river with a sandy beach and tree's in the background.
A nice short drive to the location and an even shorter walk from the car to the spot for photos. The sun sets early here behind some high riverbank rocks so we can usually get away with moving the session to about 2hrs before sunset.
This location may not be suitable during wet seasons/months of heavy rain due to the river height rising. Because of this I will usually do a quick check the week before hand if you have chosen this spot and we suspect this to be the case. If you're prone to mosquito bites - it may also pay to spray some bug repellant before the session.
CLICK HERE TO FIND IT ON THE MAP
For this location - park on Malcolm Street I will wait for you on the grass area by the roadside parking.
Fairfield Field
Tucked away behind Fairfield High School, is a beautiful field spot which often has some luscious long grass and daisies. Best for Oct -Nov (Grass is mowed at the end of Nov). People often come to this spot to walk their dogs so it's not the best for those wanting more intimate maternity images but is a GREAT option for family sessions.
CLICK HERE TO FIND IT ON THE MAP
For this location - park on College Place and I will meet you in the carpark. (best not to use the carpark as they sometimes close it).
Urban - hamilton city
A rooftop carpark for an urban feel and something a little different. This carpark gets a sunset and is usually empty on weekends and some weekday evenings over summer. It makes for a perfect location to get out the kids scooters and bikes to have a little bit of fun.
CLICK HERE TO FIND IT ON THE MAP
For this location - park in the carpark on the rooftop.
Raglan hillside
Perfect for those that want a peek of the ocean without having to deal with the sand and water. Close walk from the carpark but not wheelchair accessible. Keep in mind that cattle/cows may potentially be in the field.
CLICK HERE TO FIND IT ON THE MAP
For this location, turn right at the round about when you pull into Ngarunui beach and drive right to the end and wait in the carpark or by the picnic table in the open space.
