Photographers & Photography Services

Capture the magic of your special day with expert photography services in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Whether you're planning a stunning wedding, an intimate gathering, or a grand celebration, our professional photographers are dedicated to preserving every precious moment. From beautiful engagement and pre-wedding shoots to candid and traditional wedding photography, our photographers know how to make your day unforgettable. Offering flexible packages tailored to your needs, including drone photography for breathtaking aerial shots, we ensure that your memories are captured beautifully. Let us help you tell your story through timeless photos that you'll cherish forever. Book your photographer today and create lasting memories of your Eastern Bay wedding or event.

More about Photographers & Photography Services in the Eastern Bay

Your wedding day will go by in a joyful blur — and that’s why choosing the right photographer is so important. In Whakatane, Ohope, Opotiki, and across the Eastern Bay, professional wedding photographers are ready to capture every detail, emotion, and candid moment with clarity and creativity. Whether your style is natural and documentary, editorial and posed, or artistic and atmospheric, the Eastern Bay offers an impressive range of experienced photography professionals who know how to turn fleeting moments into timeless memories.

Local photographers not only bring technical expertise but also deep knowledge of scenic backdrops, lighting conditions, and unique locations in the region. From sun-drenched beaches to lush native bush, rustic farmland to elegant urban settings, your photographer will help you make the most of every setting.

Wedding Photography Styles Available in the Eastern Bay

Photographers in the Eastern Bay of Plenty offer a wide variety of visual storytelling styles. Some popular options include:

• Documentary/Photojournalistic
  Captures natural, unscripted moments as they happen. Great for couples who want a relaxed, authentic record of their day without too much posing.

• Fine Art/Editorial
  Emphasises beautiful composition and dramatic lighting. Often includes posed portraits with a creative flair — ideal for couples who love visual drama and elegance.

• Lifestyle Photography
  Blends candid and posed shots, with a focus on telling your story in a warm, emotional way. Suits weddings with intimate, romantic, or family-oriented vibes.

• Traditional/Classical
  Structured images with attention to key moments like walking down the aisle, exchanging vows, and group portraits. Ideal for formal weddings with a timeless feel.

• Hybrid Approaches
  Many photographers in Whakatane and Ohope blend styles to suit your preferences, offering flexibility in how your story is captured and presented.

Photographers Based Across the Eastern Bay

• Whakatane
  A popular base for full-time wedding photographers, many of whom offer tailored packages including pre-wedding shoots, albums, and videography add-ons.

• Ohope
  Coastal photographers in Ohope are experts at working with beach lighting, golden hour portraits, and dramatic seaside landscapes.

• Opotiki
  Known for its raw beauty and cultural richness, photographers here often incorporate Māori heritage and storytelling, especially in whānau-focused weddings.

• Kawerau & Rural Locations
  Photographers servicing these areas are experienced with natural light, open spaces, and farm-style or backyard weddings.

Common Photography Packages & Inclusions

Most Eastern Bay wedding photographers offer tiered packages depending on your budget, timeline, and coverage needs. These packages typically include:

• Pre-wedding Consultation
  Meet your photographer, share your vision, and establish a timeline and shot list for the day.

• Full-Day Coverage
  From getting ready in the morning through to the first dance and beyond.

• Second Shooter Option
  Ideal for large weddings — a second photographer ensures more coverage from different angles.

• Engagement Shoot
  A casual photo session before the wedding to get comfortable in front of the camera.

• Online Gallery & High-Res Downloads
  Secure digital gallery for sharing and downloading your images.

• Printed Albums or Photo Books
  Custom-designed wedding albums printed on premium paper.

• Drone Photography
  Aerial shots of your venue, ceremony layout, and group photos — available from select providers.

• Same-Day Edits or Teasers
  A handful of highlight shots delivered shortly after the wedding for social media or thank-you cards.

Tips for Booking a Wedding Photographer

• Book Early
  Many top photographers in the Eastern Bay book out 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer dates.

• Review Full Galleries
  Ask to see an entire wedding gallery to get a sense of consistency, lighting, and editing style.

• Discuss Must-Have Shots
  Create a shot list for group photos, details, and key moments that are important to you.

• Check Their Backup Plan
  Ensure they use dual memory cards, backup cameras, and have a plan in case of illness or equipment failure.

• Confirm Turnaround Times
  Delivery of your edited gallery can vary from 3 to 12 weeks depending on workload.

Why Hire a Local Eastern Bay Photographer?

• Familiarity with Venues and Landscapes
  Local photographers know how to work with light and weather conditions unique to the region.

• Established Vendor Connections
  They often collaborate seamlessly with celebrants, videographers, florists, and venues to keep things flowing smoothly.

• No Travel Costs
  Most local photographers include regional travel in their pricing — ideal for keeping your budget on track.

• Support for Your Vision
  Whether you want laid-back or luxurious, cultural or quirky, Eastern Bay photographers understand the diverse needs of local and destination weddings alike.

FAQs – Wedding Photography in the Eastern Bay

How much does a wedding photographer cost in the Eastern Bay?
Prices range from $1,800 to $6,000+ depending on hours, deliverables, and experience. Most offer custom quotes.

Do I need a second shooter?
It depends on the size of your wedding. Second shooters help capture more angles and candid moments, especially during the ceremony and reception.

Can we customise our photo package?
Yes — most photographers offer add-ons like albums, rehearsal dinner coverage, and extended hours.

What’s the difference between RAW and edited photos?
RAW files are unprocessed and not usually provided. Edited images are colour-corrected, retouched, and curated for quality.

Is drone photography allowed everywhere?
Some areas have restrictions due to airspace or weather. Ask your photographer about drone licensing and venue policies.

Creative Photo Ideas for Your Wedding

• Golden Hour Couple Portraits: Capture the soft, warm light just before sunset for dreamy shots.

• First Look Photos: Document the moment you see each other for the first time, whether it’s on a beach, bush path, or hotel balcony.

• Cultural Traditions: Include photos of significant cultural rituals, dress, or symbolic elements.

• Behind-the-Scenes: From the hair and makeup chair to final touches on the cake, behind-the-scenes moments add depth to your album.

• Guest Reactions: Skilled photographers will capture not just you — but your guests’ joy, tears, and laughter throughout the day.