CONTACT

A little about me

Kia ora, I’m Mahana Your wedding, family & branding photographer based in Porirua, Wellington, New Zealand

For me, photography is more than just taking beautiful images — it’s about honouring the real, fleeting and magical moments of your life. Whether it’s two people wildly in love, a mama growing new life, or a creative stepping into their purpose — these seasons matter. They deserve to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.

This little business of mine was born from a deep love for people and the stories that shape us. I'm drawn to connection — the way your partner looks at you, the moments that unfold when you wrap your hands around your loved ones or light up when you talk about the things your passionate about. That’s where the magic lives.

My style is warm, natural and honest — always chasing soft light, tender moments and the kind of beauty you feel more than see. I’ll guide you gently through your session, keeping things easy and down-to-earth so you can just be yourself. No stiff poses, no pressure — just you, as you are.

Above all else, I value family, art, wellbeing, simplicity and soul. If that sounds like you, then I’d be honoured to tell your story.

Not just a photographer, a visual storyteller for loved-up souls

KIA ORA ,
I'M MAHANA

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Brands

Families

Weddings

When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me soaking up the beautiful chaos of family life — with my husband by my side, we are blessed with three incredible kids (two teens & a 9 year old), and a very loved (and slightly spoiled) dog named Koby. Our house is often full of laughter, music, and the smell of something on the stove — because let’s be honest, I enjoy food more than I probably should.

I love an adventure. I’m happiest exploring nature, hiking somewhere green and quiet, by the ocean or lifting weights at the gym. I love creating things with my hands, and would choose a mango margarita at home with close friends over a crazy night on the town.

My perfect morning? Warm breeze, slow starts, sunshine on the deck, and nowhere to rush off to. Life isn’t always tidy or quiet, but it’s full of heart — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

My way of life!

My Fav Things

Behind The Lens

What Inspires Me

My Philosophy

Here’s where you can go on a deeper dive into what started your photography journey and why you love it so much – talk about your motivations and purpose, why every shoot is a new experience. 

You can also write about your overall style and personality, what makes you different from all the other photographers they’ve researched. Don’t be shy!

Talk about how your photos will help them relive the day for years and generations to come.

“Every wedding, every shoot, I see the world through a whole new lens. Your story will be different from the last, and this ignites my passion all over again.”

My Fav Things

Behind The Lens

What Inspires Me

My Philosophy

Uncover your overall approach to the day and an overview of your process. Help them picture what it’s like to have you there on the day and why what you do is so important. Mention how you’ll help them ensure the day flows smoothly, because you’ve had loads of experience at other weddings.   

For example, talk about how you’ll arrive at first light to capture the mother-of-the-bride and the bridal squad helping the bride get ready. Or the groomsmen sneaking a few drinks to calm their nerves. 

Chat about how you’ll turn up after one too many coffees, buzzing with energy to capture one of the most important, memorable days in their lives, and that you won’t miss a moment. 
Write about documenting the getting ready prep through to ceremony, reception and afterparty (if relevant). How you’ll be there in the centre of it all or as a wallflower behind the scenes, photographing moments and details that they might’ve missed (e.g. Aunty Doris getting drunk on the d-floor). Whether you stick to purely candid shots or will pose them for styled shots.

Rain, hail or shine, I won’t miss a beat.

My Fav Things

Behind The Lens

What Inspires Me

My Philosophy

Here’s where you can delve further into your favourite things outside of wedding photography – everyone might be able to be a photographer, but there’s little quirks that make you unique – chat about that. 

Maybe you can talk about your favourite hobbies, food, art or leisure activities. What you do to wind down when you’re not shooting – pets, your family, your hometown.

You can also use this opportunity to rehash your love for travelling – a great way for you to subtly remind them that you’re open to shooting destination weddings. 

Remember to wrap up this section by tying it back into wedding photography. For example, “That’s a little sneak peek into my life and a few of my favourite things. No matter who and where we are, we’re all souls wandering this beautiful earth, with a different story to share. No tale is one and the same. And that’s why I LOVE documenting love stories (and hopefully yours too!)”

Disney Movies Still Make me Cry. (a one-liner, fun quirk that makes you, you)

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NOTHINGS

SWEET

From the moment we walked into her space (which is absolutely stunning, filled with natural light and beautiful props) we felt so at ease and ended up having so much fun. Bub was calm the whole time which is a testament to Mahana’s positive energy and family friendly creative direction. It was honestly such a comfortable experience for us and we hope to be back in the studio again soon. Our photos came out way past our expectation, we love them so much, especially the ones of our pīwari pēpi. E mihi ana Mahana! 

Elena 

We absolutely loved working with Mahana for our family maternity shoot. Mahana really brought my vision to life and made it even better than I could have imagined. She found the most incredible place to shoot, made it feel so easy and natural for us especially when it’s something very much out of our comfort zone.

Abby

Our experience with mahana felt so relaxed and she made us feel so welcomed and comfortable. The vibe in her studio helped us to feel comfortable taking photos as neither myself or my partner had taken photos before and having the music in the background definitely lifted the vibe.

Mairangi

Why Invest?

Because these moments won’t happen twice. Whether it’s your wedding day, the sweet
anticipation of new life, or the brand you’ve poured your heart into — they all deserve to be honoured with care, intention, and artistry.

When you invest in photography, you’re not just booking a session. You’re choosing to press pause on a fleeting season. You’re creating space to be fully present, to feel, to connect — and to have those moments captured in a way that feels true to you.

I don’t believe in stiff poses or cookie-cutter images. I offer a personalised experience where you feel seen, comfortable, and supported. Together, we’ll create images that feel like you — real, emotive, and full of soul.

Long after the day is over, your photos will hold the memories close — the way it felt, the love that was there, the story you’re still writing. That’s the kind of investment that only grows more valuable over time. If that resonates with you, I’d be so honoured to document it all.

Get in touch

TWO SOULS

one story

No story is one and the same.
Yours will be finessed to share your unique journey.