Lizzie is a NZIPP Accredited Professional Photographer based in the Taranaki region of New Zealand’s North Island.
Hi Lizzie! Firstly congratulations on your recent success on becoming an NZIPP Accredited Professional Photographer, can please tell us a bit about yourself, family and childhood?
I Grew up on the family farm in Piopio and attended St Peters School, Cambridge. I then travelled and lived in Scotland and the Netherlands before coming back home and starting a family. I Have four kids, from 2 months to 8 years old.
What type of photography do you do and where do you get the inspiration for your work?
A bit of a mixture of everything, I guess you could say I specialise in Studio portraiture with kids and their pets. I get a lot of inspiration from paintings. The way they use the light, and tell a story.
What has been your career path? How did you get to being an aspiring photographer to actually doing it full time, for a living?
I did really well at school with painting, and I was supposed to go on to university and complete a fine art degree…. But then I met my now husband and went overseas instead. But that did lead me to my first camera. I moved back to NZ and studied mechanical engineering, but only to realise this didn’t fit into the family life I wanted. So I decided to make a go of doing what I truly loved and enjoyed.
What makes the good picture stand out from the average?
Emotive Impact. A story to be found, not given on a platter. Good lighting.
What piece of advice would you give to a beginner photographer?
Don’t worry about what others are doing, just do you. Find out who you are and do it on purpose.
What is your funniest story from a photoshoot?
Well just two months ago I got really emotional when my clients arrived, because I couldn’t find my flash trigger.. Turns out I was in early labour and my little boy arrived the next day!
How do you practice and improve your skills as a photographer?
I take on board my mistakes and constantly try new things. If I like it, I repeat it.
Whose work has influenced you the most?
My mum and the photos she used to take on the Rodeo circuit with an old film camera. The subject awareness and timing to nail the consistent perfect action shot!
Are you currently working on any personal projects?
Not currently, I am waiting for the kids to get a bit older.
Why did you join NZIPP and begin your journey to become Accredited?
To become more involved with the behind the scenes of the professional photography industry.
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Email: lizzie@kowhaiandthistle.com