8:00 am - 3:45 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

8:00 am - 1:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

1:45 pm - 6:00 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

8:00 am - 2:00 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

2:30 pm - 6:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

9:00 am - 10:00 am

WITH EMMA STEEL

WHEN:Tuesday 4 August 2026
TIME: 9.00am – 10:00am
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Ever wondered how professional pet photographers capture those beautiful images full of personality and expression?
Join award-winning pet photographer Emma Steel for this practical and entertaining session where she’ll share her favourite techniques for creating stunning pet portraits.
Using her own dogs live on stage, Emma will demonstrate how to work with animals to capture natural expressions, gain their attention, and create images that owners will treasure. You’ll learn how to make the most of available light, choose effective camera settings, and work with the environment around you to produce stronger photographs.

Topics covered include:
Getting your pet to look at the camera
Capturing personality and expression
Working with natural and available light
Camera settings for sharp pet portraits
Composition and background choices
Tips for photographing active and unpredictable animals
Simple techniques to elevate your pet photography

Whether you’re photographing your own pets or simply want to improve your animal photography skills, this session will provide practical advice that you can start using straight away.

What to bring:
Your camera if you’d like to follow along with the settings being discussed, there may be an opportunity to photograph the dogs yourself.
Or a notebook and pen for taking notes
Cost: Free
Booking is essential as spaces are limited.

10:30 am - 11:30 am

WITH SIMONE JACKSON

WHEN: Tuesday 4th August 2026
TIME: 10.30am – 11:30am
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Are you ready to get more out of your camera but not sure where to start?

Join Multi Award Winning photographer Simone Jackson for this beginner-friendly session designed to help you understand the fundamentals of photography and gain confidence using your camera. Simone will guide you through the key camera settings and functions, explaining what they do, when to use them, and how they can help you create better photographs.

Topics will include:

Understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
How different camera settings affect your images
Focusing modes and when to use them
Getting correct exposure
Simple techniques to improve your photography
Tips for getting the best results from your camera

This session is perfect for beginners, photography enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to move beyond automatic mode and learn how to take greater creative control of their images.

Bring your camera along and follow along as Simone breaks down the basics in a practical and easy-to-understand way.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

WITH SIMONE JACKSON

WHEN: Tuesday 4th August 2026
TIME: 12pm – 1pm
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Have you ever wondered how photographers capture stunning images of birds, animals, and wildlife in their natural environment?

Join award winning wildlife photographer Simone Jackson for an inspiring introduction to wildlife photography. In this session, Simone will share practical tips and techniques to help you improve your wildlife images, whether you’re photographing birds in your backyard, wildlife while travelling, or animals in the great outdoors.

Topics will include:
Choosing the right camera settings for wildlife
Understanding shutter speed and focus modes
Techniques for photographing birds in flight
Getting sharp images of moving subjects
Reading animal behaviour and anticipating the moment
Composition tips for stronger wildlife photographs
Working with natural light
Essential gear and accessories for wildlife photography
Simone will also share examples from her own work and discuss the patience, planning, and fieldcraft that go into creating compelling wildlife images.

This session is suitable for photographers of all skill levels, from beginners wanting to explore wildlife photography through to enthusiasts looking to improve their results.

Bring along a notebook and your questions, and discover how to capture the beauty and behaviour of wildlife through your lens.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

WITH BRUCE MITCHELL

WHEN: Tuesday 4th August 2026
TIME: 1.30pm - 2.30pm
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Whether you’re photographing a birthday party, charity fundraiser, community event, corporate function, or special celebration, capturing the energy and atmosphere of an event can feel overwhelming. Modern cameras offer an incredible range of features, but knowing which settings to use and when can make all the difference.

Join Bruce Mitchell for this practical introduction to event photography and video, where he’ll show you how to confidently use your camera to create compelling images and videos without getting lost in menus, settings, or thousands of unnecessary files.

Photography Essentials
Bruce will cover:
Choosing the right camera settings for events
Autofocus modes and how to use them effectively
Custom function buttons and camera setup
Lens selection for different event situations
Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual Mode – when and why to use each
Creating variety in your images while maintaining consistency
Developing an efficient workflow to help you capture key moments without overshooting

Video Production 101

Learn the fundamentals of event videography, including:
The key differences between photography and video
Framing and composition techniques that work across both mediums
Understanding frame rates, aspect ratios, bit rates, and codecs
How to think like a videographer while still capturing great photographs
Building a simple and effective workflow for video production
Planning for Success
Bruce will also discuss one of the most important aspects of event coverage: planning your outcome and working backwards. Understanding the final deliverables before you start shooting can help you make better creative and technical decisions throughout the event.

This session is ideal for beginners, enthusiasts, content creators, and photographers looking to expand their skills into video coverage.

Bring your questions and discover how to confidently capture the moments that matter, whether through still images, video, or both.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

WITH IAN ROTHERHAM

WHEN: Tuesday 4th August 2026
TIME: 3pm - 4.30pm
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

LED lighting has transformed portrait photography, making it easier than ever to see and shape light in real time. Whether you’re photographing family, portraits, pets, or creative projects, understanding how to work with continuous LED lighting can help you create consistent, professional results.

Join Ian Rotherham for this practical hands-on session as he demonstrates how to use LED lights to create beautiful portrait lighting setups. Through live demonstrations with a model, Ian will show how small changes in light position, direction, and modifiers can dramatically change the mood and impact of a portrait.

Topics will include:
Understanding the advantages of LED lighting
Building simple and effective portrait lighting setups
Creating flattering light for different subjects
Using light direction and shadow to add depth and dimension
Working with reflectors to control contrast and fill shadows
Understanding lighting ratios and portrait mood
Practical tips for studio and location portraiture
Live tethered demonstrations and real-time image review

Ian will share examples from his own work and provide attendees with a take-home handout to help reinforce the concepts covered during the session.

This session is ideal for photographers who want to gain confidence using continuous lighting and learn practical techniques they can immediately apply to their own portrait photography.

Whether you’re new to artificial lighting or looking to expand your skills beyond natural light, this session will provide a solid foundation in creating professional-looking portraits with LED lighting.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

WITH EMMA STEEL

WHEN: Tuesday 4 August 2026
TIME: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Want to learn how to edit your photos in Photoshop but don’t know where to start?

Join Emma Steel for this beginner-friendly introduction to Photoshop, designed for photographers who are new to the software and want to understand the fundamentals of photo editing.

In this hands-on session, Emma will guide you through the basic tools and techniques used to enhance images, improve exposure and colour, make simple adjustments, and build confidence navigating Photoshop’s workspace. You’ll gain practical skills that you can immediately apply to your own photography.

This session is ideal for photography enthusiasts, hobbyists, and anyone wanting to take the next step in their editing journey.

What to bring:
Your own laptop with Photoshop installed (recommended so you can follow along)
Or a notebook and pen if you would prefer to take notes
Cost: Free
Booking is essential as spaces are limited.
If you are not sure where to find Space 25 please come into the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, and someone will assist you to find the venue.

8:00 am - 1:00 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

1:15 pm - 7:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

8:00 am - 11:45 am

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

12:00 pm - 3:45 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

4:00 pm - 8:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

4:45 pm - 6:30 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

Please note this category will start approximately 15 minutes after the previous category, therefore it may start earlier or later than the time published.

8:00 am - 9:00 am

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

9:15 am - 10:15 am

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

10:30 am - 11:30 am

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

11:45 am - 12:45 pm

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

1:15 pm - 2:15 pm

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

2:30 pm - 3:30 pm

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

3:45 pm - 4:45 pm

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards feedback round for the top images in each category. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

NEW ZEALAND AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Join us in person, or watch online for the 2026 New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards Category winner announcements and the announcement for the finalists for Photographer of the Year. The overall winner will be announced at the Gala Awards Evening, held Sunday 9th August 2026 in Christchurch. Watch live on YouTube by subscribing to @NZIPPNational

8:00 am - 3:00 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

8:00 am - 3:45 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

8:00 am - 2:00 pm

IRIS AWARDS LIVE JUDGING

Judged live at the Majestic on Durham, 189 Durham St South, Christchurch.

Subscribe to @NZIPPNational on YouTube to watch online.

9:00 am - 10:00 am

WITH SIMONE JACKSON

WHEN: Thursday 6th August 2026
TIME: 9am - 10am
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

What separates a good photograph from an award-winning image?

Join award-winning photographer Simone Jackson as she shares the key elements that elevate an image from technically competent to truly memorable. Drawing on her experience as both a photographer and photography judge, Simone will explore what makes an image stand out and connect with viewers.

Topics will include:
Understanding what judges look for in award-winning images
The importance of storytelling and visual impact
Creating strong compositions that hold attention
Using light to enhance mood and emotion
Developing a personal style and artistic vision
Moving beyond technical excellence
Identifying and strengthening the narrative within an image
Common mistakes that can limit an image’s success

Through real-world examples, Simone will break down successful photographs and discuss the creative decisions that help transform an ordinary image into something extraordinary.

Whether you’re considering entering photography awards, building a portfolio, or simply wanting to create stronger images, this session will provide valuable insights into the creative and technical elements that contribute to photographic excellence.

Bring your questions and be inspired to look at your photography with a fresh perspective.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

10:30 am - 11:30 am

WITH STACEY CAVALIER

WHEN: Thursday 6 August 2026
TIME: 10.30am – 11:30am
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Children grow and change so quickly, and capturing authentic images of them can be one of the most rewarding forms of photography. In this practical and inspiring session, Stacey Cavalier will share her approach to creating natural, engaging portraits of children that families will treasure for years to come.

Learn how to work with children of different ages, encourage genuine expressions, and create images that reflect their unique personalities. Stacey will cover tips for choosing locations, using available light, camera settings, composition, and simple techniques to help children feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.

Whether you’re photographing your own children or looking to improve your family photography skills, this session will provide plenty of practical advice that you can start using immediately.

Join Stacey as she shares her experience, favourite techniques, and real-world insights into creating meaningful portraits of the people who matter most.

Cost: Free
Booking is essential as spaces are limited.

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

WITH IAN ROTHERHAM

WHEN: Thursday 6th August 2026
TIME: 1.30pm - 2.30pm
WHERE: Space 25, Wilmer St, just down the road a little from The Majestic on Durham, Christchurch Central City

Want to create beautiful portraits using simple, accessible lighting techniques?

Join Ian Rotherham for this practical introduction to portrait lighting, where you’ll learn how to use natural light and a small selection of affordable tools to dramatically improve your portraits.

Ian will demonstrate how to recognise and work with different types of natural light, showing you how small adjustments in positioning, direction, and light quality can transform an image. You’ll also learn how to use reflectors and diffusers to shape light, reduce harsh shadows, and create flattering portraits in a variety of situations.

Topics will include:
Understanding natural light and how to find the best light
Positioning your subject for flattering results
Working with light direction and shadow
Using reflectors to add light and create catchlights
How and when to use a diffuser
Creating professional-looking portraits with minimal equipment
Simple lighting setups you can use anywhere
Through live demonstrations, Ian will show how a reflector, diffuser, and good understanding of light can often be all you need to create beautiful portrait photographs.

This session is perfect for beginners, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to improve their portrait photography without investing in expensive lighting equipment.

Bring your questions and discover how to make the most of the light you already have.

Photo Connect sessions are free to attend, however bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Judging is complete, it's time to get the celebrations underway! Happy Hour (or three hours) begins in 25, at the completion of judging. It's a great time to socialise, get together with friends, and prepare for a fantastic evening ahead with the Print Auction and Iris Awards Wrap Party to follow.

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Did you see a print during the exhibition that you'd love to have as a piece of art on your wall?

This might be your chance to claim it as yours!

This is a hugely fun event as people tussle over who will win the auction and we always have some truly stunning work for sale - so don't miss your chance, come along to 25 next to the Majestic and join in the fun!

Cash bar available.

7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

The official end to the 2026 Iris Awards is here - the Iris Awards is officially over and we celebrate with a fantastic evening of casual conversations and celebration. We'll announce the finalists for our New Zealand and Australian categories, and also finalists for our major titles - New Zealand, and Australian Professional Photographer of the Year. You don't need to register to attend, just come along and join in the fun. Cash bar available.

8:30 am - 9:30 am

Welcome to the 2026 New Zealand Photography Show!

9:30 am - 10:30 am

ALEX CEARNS

Step away from the technical hustle and reconnect with the profound joy of photography creation.

Join acclaimed photographer Alex Cearns OAM for a fun, engaging, and inspiring address that explores why photography is magic.

Alex will take you on a journey of discovery, sharing how you can instantly find that spark in your own work and tapping into the heart of what makes photography a wonderful pursuit.

This presentation will encourage you to see the world through a new lens and seek out the beauty, emotion, and stories that exist in the images you capture.

10:30 am - 11:00 am

Grab a bite to eat, and visit the trade exhibition from world leading camera brands and photographic retailers.

11:00 am - 12:15 pm

SARAH MCGREGOR

Step into the world of fine art portraiture like never before. Join Sarah McGregor, 2025 New Zealand Professional Photographer of the Year for an exclusive, live demonstration where the creative process unfolds before your eyes, from the concept to the creation. Watch the magic happen as she transforms simple studio props and a bare canvas (no makeup!) into striking, emotive portraits, revealing how imagination, lighting, and expert direction come together to craft unforgettable imagery.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Sarah at work and unlock the secrets behind award-winning fine art portraits.

12:15 pm - 1:30 pm

TOM RAE

In this presentation, Tom Rae explores the deeper meaning and philosophy behind his night sky photography, and why dark skies offer a perspective that goes far beyond the image itself.

Drawing from his work across New Zealand, he shares how these environments shape not only what we see but how we experience scale, silence, and connection to the natural world in such a unique way.

The presentation also moves into the deep technical side of his process, including how he plans and captures his images, the types of locations he seeks out, and the methods he uses to create high resolution Nightscapes.

Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of both the creative intent and technical execution behind compelling night photography, as well as practical insight they can apply to their own work in the art of capturing the night.

It would be beneficial for participants to have a basic understanding of cameras, photography and post processing, however not essential as a lot of the topic matter will be emotion and philosophy based

2:15 pm - 3:30 pm

PAUL REIFFER

Most cityscape photographers shoot the same five locations from the same three viewpoints with the same "standard settings" up high. This talk is about how we capture everything else.

Paul has spent years getting to places that don't appear on any location list. From the top of the Shanghai Tower before the safety glass went in, to rooftop access that technically didn't exist, to hotel relationships that opened doors no amount of Google or LinkedIn research ever could.

In this session, we'll discuss how access actually works at the highest level: the two-tier world that's hidden from many photographers, how to read a new city before you touch your camera, what to say (and what not to say) when you're asking for something unusual, and why incredible access still means nothing if you blow the shot when you get there!

Practical, honest, and built entirely on real stories (including a few that didn't go quite as planned, along with the one where he fell off...)

We'll take you behind the scenes on campaign shoots, show different perspectives, and talk through the recipes behind shooting some of the world's most iconic cities.

3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Join us in the main auditorium for quick fire mini events and afternoon tea.

5:00 pm - 6:15 pm

KATIE KOLENBERG

Running a successful family photography business takes more than a great eye and a camera you love. It’s tough out there right now and the photographers who are thriving share three things in common.

This keynote is an honest take about what actually works and what you should be focusing your attention on right now.

You'll walk away knowing how to put yourself at the centre of your business, deliver the kind of customer experience that keeps people coming back, and market yourself in a way that actually gets results.

Come ready to be challenged and leave with a clear plan to build or grow a business you love.

6:15 pm - 7:45 pm

It's like Bingo, but with music! Join us for an hilarious evening of bingo with a twist - we'll play a tune, and you need to find the song and artist on your bingo card. Not so good with music? Download the Shazam app and join in the fun. Strictly limited tickets available, Cash bar available on site. This is a fantastic way to socialise with your community and have fun while doing it! We might even have a few prizes to give away.

7:00 am - 8:30 am

https://nzphotoshow.co.nz/product/first-time-attendees-breakfast

If you’re attending the New Zealand Photography Show for the first time, we’d love to welcome you to join us for a special breakfast before the conference begins.

This is a relaxed and friendly opportunity to meet a few familiar faces, break the ice, and start building connections within our photography community. We know it can be a little daunting walking into a room full of people you don’t know – this breakfast is the perfect way to ease into the day and feel part of the NZIPP whānau.

Details:
Location: Majestic on Durham
Time: 7.15am, Friday 7 August
This is a self-funded event, which you will need to register for. Link to buy tickets here: https://nzphotoshow.co.nz/product/first-time-attendees-breakfast/

1:30 pm - 2:15 pm

Lunch will be served in the Majestic Foyer.

11:00 am - 12:15 pm

Diederik van Heyningen

Thirty years. Multiple recessions. Near extinction of film. Rise of digital. Rise of Social Media. Earthquakes. A pandemic, ADHD, AI, and now a War!

Every time the industry and life shifted, I asked myself — how can I survive this?

Using my own career path to narrate my presentation, I unpack the moments where timing, preparation, and chance collided — and ask how much of professional (and personal) survival is luck, or engineered.

Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding and sharper framework for navigating their own disruptors, and possibly a very different view of where their own success — or lack of success — has come from, or will come from.

12:15 pm - 1:30 pm

MATT PALMER

I believe photography projects can change your life — and maybe even the world. After years of running projects intuitively, Matt Palmer reverse-engineered what actually worked into eight clear steps. From finding your concept to planning your execution, this is your blueprint.

2:15 pm - 3:30 pm

ESTHER BUNNING – ASUKABOOK NZ AMBASSADOR

A photograph is seldom just a single image — it’s part of a larger story.

In this workshop, AsukaBook New Zealand Ambassador Esther Bunning guides photographers through the process of transforming their work into beautifully designed, premium photo books that do more than present images — they add meaning, elevate perception, and increase the value of the work in a tangible way.

This is not simply about layout or design rules. It is about how a body of work is experienced. How sequencing shifts emotion. And how thoughtful design can transform photographs into something that feels considered, lasting, and worth returning to.

This session is ideal for photographers beginning to explore books and albums, or those looking to refine and elevate their design approach. Esther will share practical, real-world techniques drawn from professional photographic studio practice, including:

• Designing timeless layouts that allow the work to breathe
• Storytelling through sequencing, rhythm, and image selection
• Common design pitfalls that reduce perceived value
• How format, paper, and finish shape the emotional impact of a book
• Positioning books and albums as a premium product within your business
• Using books as a meaningful record of collections of work and exhibitions
• A walkthrough of the AsukaBook workflow and tools
• Practical ways to streamline album creation without losing intention or quality

Alongside this, you will gain insight into how high-end books and albums can shift the way clients experience and value photographic work — strengthening emotional connection and increasing perceived worth.

What you need to know before attending

This is a beginner to intermediate session. No prior album design experience is required, though familiarity with Photoshop will be helpful.
You’ll leave with clear design principles, practical workflow strategies, and a stronger sense of confidence in how to translate your work into premium photo books that reflect the story telling of your image creation.


- - - -

ABOUT ESTHER

Esther Bunning is a portrait photographer based in the Wairarapa, NZ with over 35 years of experience working with people and creating expressive, considered imagery. Her work is known for its quiet, atmospheric quality and a strong sense of storytelling and connection. For Esther, photography is about creating bodies of work that feel meaningful, considered, and emotionally resonant — whether in a single frame or across a complete photographic story.

Alongside her portrait practice, she continually explores creative techniques and approaches that bring an artistic, layered feel to her work. She is an AsukaBook Ambassador for Australasia, and a Nikon Ambassador for NZ, and she is a double Grand Master and Honorary Fellow of the NZIPP.

5:00 pm - 6:15 pm

MIEKE BOYNTON

Enjoy being guided through a series of Mieke’s stunning landscape captures, and listen to her explain the shots from start to finish - from the planning of the shoot, to the reality of the conditions on the day, to the decisions made during the editing process.

Have you ever wondered what the best apps are for planning a shoot? Mieke shares all of her planning apps and websites.

Have you been curious about how much processing professional photographers do? Mieke shows her RAW files for each photo and explains why she processed each as she did. Do happy accidents happen in landscape photography? You bet - and Mieke will share some of these stories too.

The presentation includes grand scenics, intimate landscapes, foggy photos, panoramas, night photos, long exposures, ICM, aerials, and landscapes in Black & White. Mieke’s infectious enthusiasm will make the time fly past, but the added bonus is that you’ll pick up a huge stack of practical tips and tricks for your own landscape photography.

4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

TOM RAE

This is a two-part masterclass, including an astrophotography photo shoot (Friday 7th August), and an editing masterclass (Sunday 9th August).

Maximum of 8 people, so get in quick to secure your spot!

Part 1 Masterclass details:

This hands on astrophotography field workshop is designed to help participants confidently capture the night sky in real world conditions. Working on location in the Canterbury region, attendees will be guided through the full process of shooting the Milky Way, from arrival and setup through to creating strong images under the night sky. The focus is on practical, in field skills, including reading conditions, choosing effective compositions, and positioning subjects to create compelling results. Tom will provide real-time guidance throughout the session, helping participants refine their technique, dial in camera settings, achieve accurate focus in the dark, and adapt to changing conditions. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a clear, repeatable approach to astrophotography in the field, along with the confidence to plan and execute their own shoots independently.

The shoot will run for approximately 4–5 hours on location, covering:
– sunset setup and planning
– composition and foreground selection
– Milky Way shooting techniques
– real-time troubleshooting and guidance

Attendees should bring:
– Camera (DSLR or mirrorless with manual control)
– Wide-angle lens (ideally f/2.8 or faster)
– Tripod
– Spare batteries
– Headlamp (preferably with red light mode)
– Warm clothing as August can be very cold

When: Friday 7th August from 4pm, for 4-5 hours. If the weather is unsuitable, this masterclass will take place on Saturday at the same time. If the weather is unsuitable for both days, you will be refunded the portion of this masterclass, which is $300.
Where: Meet at the Majestic on Durham at the registration desk, transport will be provided.

Masterclass Part 2:

Darkness to Detail

In this masterclass, Tom Rae shares the complete end to end process behind his nightscape imagery, offering extensive insight into both the creative and technical decisions that shape his work. From identifying and planning locations in New Zealand’s dark sky environments, through to precise capture techniques and advanced post-processing, Tom breaks down a refined workflow designed to produce high resolution, impactful results. With a focus on both detail and intention, this session goes beyond settings to explore how strong images are crafted from concept to completion. Attendees will leave with a clear and practical framework for elevating their own night photography to a professional standard, with real world practical advice to help them to create their own competition worthy night sky images.

What you need to join in:
An understanding of Lightroom / Photoshop and experience with a camera.
Preferably you will bring a laptop with processing software (LR, Photoshop).

WHEN: Sunday 9th August 2026
TIME: 9.30am – 1pm
WHERE: Venue to be confirmed. We will update ticket holders in due course, this masterclass will be held in central Christchurch.
PRICE: $795.00 for conference ticket holders, $1395 for general admission.

8:40 am - 9:10 am

Day 2 of the 2026 New Zealand Photography Show kicks off in the Majestic Auditorium.

9:10 am - 10:25 am

JOHN COWPLAND

How a broken leg led to 30 Years Behind the Camera:

What does it take to sustain a high-level photographic career for nearly forty years? From the darkrooms of local newspapers to the global stage of international sports, John Cowpland has seen the industry’s greatest shifts firsthand.

This talk deconstructs the transition from editorial news to high-end commercial work and the world’s biggest sporting arenas.

It’s a masterclass in versatility, technical adaptation, and the enduring power of a professional eye in an ever-changing digital landscape.

10:30 am - 11:00 am

Grab a bite to eat, and visit the trade exhibition from world leading camera brands and photographic retailers.

11:00 am - 12:15 pm

JEN RAOULT

In this presentation, Jen will be exploring photography as a medium that has long been connected to what lies beyond the visible. She will begin with a brief journey through art history, looking at painting movements that engaged with dreams, the unconscious, and psychoanalysis, before moving into the early days of photography and its links to spiritualism, the occult, and attempts to document the spirit world.

From there, Jen will talk about how these references inform her own practice, including the influence of Jungian thought and her interest in capturing the psychological and intangible presence of my subjects. She'll share a short behind-the-scenes film that offers insight into her process, including the creation of custom glass filters developed in collaboration with Te Rongo Kirkwood. She will finish with a slideshow of selected works, followed by a Q&A.

12:15 pm - 1:30 pm

LAYTON WOODCROFT

In this workshop, Layton will share with you their approach to using social media to attract clients and build a personal brand.

Layton will cover a range of strategies they use in their everyday work, including creating content that positions you as the obvious choice, growing an audience that trusts your work, and turning attention into real, paying clients.

2:15 pm - 3:30 pm

EILISH BURT

This presentation dives into the mental and emotional side of running a successful creative business.. the part that often gets overlooked.

While it's important to talk about the practical and physical on how to do things (tools, software, workflows), this session focuses more on how to think, feel, and show up in a way that actually sustains long-term success.

Drawing from my own journey as a full-time wedding photographer, I’ll share the mindset shifts that have shaped my business; from learning to trust myself creatively, to setting boundaries, navigating comparison, and redefining what success really looks like.

We’ll explore:

Why your mindset matters more than your strategy Letting go of perfection and creating from a place of honesty and emotion How to protect your energy, time, and creativity Navigating comparison, burnout, and self-doubt Building a business that feels aligned with your life, not one that consumes it

Takeaways:
Attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of themselves, a renewed sense of clarity, and practical mindset tools to help them build a business that feels both successful and sustainable.

3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Join us in the main auditorium for quick fire mini events and afternoon tea.

5:00 pm - 6:15 pm

MIEKE BOYNTON

Removing colour from a photograph can enhance its textures, emphasise the light, and simplify its message; however, in many cases, we take our photos because the colours call to us, and removing them can sometimes result in murky, muddy greyness. In this presentation, Mieke will share some of the reasons why some photos “sing” in black and white, and why others don’t.

Through examples of her own work, she’ll show her RAW files, explain her thought process when considering converting the image to monochrome, show what it looks like when colour is removed, and then share the edited final versions where the tones have been shifted to create more powerful images.

Finally, she will share three different ways of creating strong Black and White images in Photoshop.

1:30 pm - 2:15 pm

9:10 am - 10:25 am

SARAH MCGREGOR

Using the captures from the live shoot on Day 1 of the photography show, we’ll dive into the post-production process, showing how the raw images are refined and transformed into the finished fine art portrait. Gain insight into every step of turning a creative vision into a polished work of art. Attendees should have an understanding of photoshop, and working with layers and masks.

11:00 am - 12:15 pm

KATIE KOLENBERG

What actually determines success and why talent isn’t enough.

Most photographers have the skill. Many have the vision. So why do some build thriving, sustainable careers while others (equally talented, equally passionate) can't seem to get traction?

The answer isn't what's in your camera bag. It's what's inside you.

The Creator Code is a practical framework built specifically for professional creatives. It identifies the three internal capacities that separate those who last from those who plateau: grit, self-responsibility, and genius. When these are in balance, everything flows. When even one is underdeveloped, it becomes an invisible bottleneck, which undermines your consistency, your confidence, and your career, no matter how good your work is.

In this keynote, you'll gain a powerful diagnostic lens for understanding exactly what's been holding you back, and a clear, actionable path forward.

This isn't motivation. This is a code, and once you see it, you can't unsee it.

2:15 pm - 3:30 pm

LEIGH SCHNEIDER

What if your photography could do more than capture a moment - what if it could connect to who you are, communicate with purpose and create meaningful impact?

In this presentation, Leigh Schneider, Fine Art Conceptual Photographer, invites you to explore how to create with clear intention. Images that connect deeply to your identity and what you care about most - work that has the potential to inspire positive change.

Through a behind the scenes look at her creative process, she will share how ideas are developed and translated into finished artworks, offering insight into the thinking and methods behind her practice.

Additionally, Leigh will share how her 'Bird’s Eye Guide' framework not only helps artists create with purpose, but also supports mental health patients connect to identity as part of their recovery journey.

5:00 pm - 6:15 pm

MELANIE JENKINS

Join Melanie Jenkins—commercial photographer, contemporary artist, and author—for an inspiring and honest look at building a lasting creative career. From her early beginnings in the industry to sustaining long-term success in a highly competitive field, Melanie shares the realities behind the work, including balancing motherhood with a demanding career and keeping creativity alive through personal projects.

Exploring the dynamic relationship between her fine art and commercial photography, she reveals how each has shaped and strengthened the other over time. Melanie also reflects on the importance of adapting to industry changes, staying relevant, and continuing to evolve creatively.

This talk is a candid and uplifting journey about starting out, staying the course, and continually redefining what success looks like—offering inspiration for creatives at every stage of their career.

6:15 pm - 7:30 pm

MATT PALMER

You learn a lot working in the creative industries for 25 years — even more if you're your own worst enemy. In this talk hear about the jobs gone wrong, the rare wins, and the moments that reframed everything. 25 years of hard won lessons, for the first time in one place.

7:30 pm - 7:45 pm

Don't miss this one - if you purchased a ticket to the New Zealand Photography Show, you need to be at the closing to see if you are the winner of our fantastic prize package, thanks to New Zealand Photography Show Major Sponsor, Sony.