Photographers Profile
We recently caught up with well-known Palmerston North NZIPP Accredited Professional Photographer Ian Rotherham. Ian started working as a professional photographer 37 years ago and for the past 24 years he was also a senior lecturer in professional photography. Alongside teaching he also specialises in commercial and boutique portraiture photography.
How did you develop an interest in Photography?
Ian – I started at 14 and got really into it by the age of 18. I also painted and took photos to paint but then my girlfriend (now wife of 38 year) pointed out the photos were much better than the paintings.
Was Photography your first choice of career? Is it something you have always wanted to do?
Ian – After so many years there is not much I haven’t done in the industry, before being a photographer I worked for my dad in the family furnishing store.
What genre of photography do you do most?
Ian – I’ve shot a range of different types – from weddings to Prime ministers, product etc. Basically, anything to do with people.
Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
Ian – The first photo I remember taking was around the age of 4 and it was of my sister Deb with BoxBrownie.
How do you educate yourself to take better photos?
Ian – Talking to other photographers and going out and doing it. The internet can only show you so much but face to face is some much more enjoyable.
What is your funniest story from a photoshoot?
Ian – I had housekeeping walk into a shoot at a hotel room while shooting a lingerie shoot for James Smith (back in the day) and the poor woman was totally thrown on what was going on and ran off.
Among your work, what is your favourite and why?
Ian – Portraits! I enjoy getting to know someone and to guide them through the whole thing, so they get a result that they love.
Do you spend a lot of time editing your work?
Ian – I don’t spend a great deal of time editing my work. As a film shooter for many years, I get as much as I can in camera and I will use studio lighting or effects first over photoshop.
Is there any artist/photographer who inspired your work?
Ian – Robin Morrison is the photographer who changed my life 100%.
What type of gear do you shoot with and which one is your favourite?
Ian – I have Canon, but I’ve used Olympus, Nikon, Brionica, Linhof, Mamiya, Hasselblad and a lot of Polaroid.
Any words of wisdom for the up and comers?
Ian – Listen to what your client says to you about your photography NOT the internet as everything is out there, but the most important thing is what the people paying you think and that you believe in it too.
What is in your camera bag?
Ian – Canon R5, Godox 200pro, sigma 50mm art lens.
Do you have a bucket list for 2026?
Ian – As 2026 is the year of new beginnings for me, I want to enjoy my photography after a very subpar 2025.
What 3 words describe your photography style?
Ian – A little dark.
What are your other passions?
Ian – My wife, kids and coffee!
Why did you join NZIPP?
Ian – The people and the support they offer when I need it!
Website: Ian Rotherham Photographer
Facebook: Ian Rotherham Photographer
Instagram: @ianrotherhamphotographer
