Timeless, emotive, and deeply authentic, August & Vine tells love stories with elegance and modern edge.
With a background spanning creative industries and over a decade of experience, August & Vine brings a polished, thoughtful approach to wedding photography. Their work is defined by elegant storytelling and an intuitive eye for detail, resulting in imagery that feels both contemporary and enduring. Each gallery is designed to transport couples back into the atmosphere of their day, preserving not only how it looked but how it was felt.
Could you share what first drew you to photography, and how that passion continues to shape the way you capture weddings today?
What first drew me to photography was the power of preserving memory—the gratitude that comes from being able to hold a moment in your hands forever. I was lucky to grow up in a family that valued this, with an archive of ancestral photos and countless images and videos of our lives. Looking through those photographs taught me how powerful storytelling through imagery can be, and it inspired me to carry a camera everywhere, documenting the people and experiences most dear to me. That passion still shapes the way I capture weddings today. For me, it isn’t about perfection or simply recording events —it’s about conveying how each moment truly felt and telling the story in a way that will be cherished for generations.
Your work is often described as light-filled and emotive. How would you define your style in your own words, and what do you hope couples feel when they see their photographs for the first time?
I define my style as timeless, blending romance with a modern edge while always rooted in honest storytelling. I aim to capture moments with both elegance and authenticity, so they feel as natural as they are beautiful. When couples see their photographs for the first time, I want them to feel transported back into the atmosphere of their day—to not only remember how it looked, but to relive the emotion, intimacy, and joy of being completely themselves.
How do you create an atmosphere where couples feel comfortable, natural, and truly themselves in front of the camera?
Reading people and the moment is a skill I deeply value. Knowing when to step back and let things unfold naturally, and when to gently guide, is key. I’m not there to make couples do what I want—I’m there to draw out the best of who they are and give them what they want. During their couple session, I don’t see it as a “photo shoot,” but as another part of their day to experience together. Through conversation, subtle direction, and a few little tricks, I create a safe space where they can simply be themselves. For me, the most important thing is that they enjoy the experience, rather than seeing photography as a task to get through—because when they feel comfortable and connected, the images reflect that.
With over a decade of experience, including a background in high-end event management, you bring more than just photography to the table. How does this broader expertise enrich the wedding experience for your couples?
My background has always been in creative industries (events, hospitality, film and theatre), but it has also always demanded a level of precision with high expectations. That blend of creativity and logistical expertise brings a level of calm confidence and seamless organisation to the wedding experience, allowing my couples to fully relax and immerse themselves in the day, knowing that every detail is thoughtfully considered and beautifully captured. It also means I can preempt and smoothly manage the natural logistics of a wedding day, so the focus always remains on the moments that matter most.
What inspires your artistry most? Are there particular moments, places, or even music or films that spark ideas for how you tell each love story?
The couple’s story inspires my artistry first, as I am always trying to be true to that and honour it the best way that I can. Then nature, in particular relation to where the couple have chosen to celebrate, inspires every shoot and I let the light and landscape take the lead on how I approach my photography. Lastly I am a huge consumer of art in all forms, so I’m constantly moved by the stories found in film, painting, books and music.
Can you walk us through your creative process, from first meeting a couple to delivering their finished gallery of images?
My creative process begins with listening—understanding who my couples are, what matters most to them, and shaping a schedule that reflects their priorities rather than a one-size-fits-all template. I often collaborate with other vendors, and if needed, I’ll scout locations or attend rehearsals to prepare. While I always gather as much information as possible, I approach each couple’s story with fresh eyes, considering the unique location and light to capture it authentically. On the day, I work intuitively, adapting to the unexpected and focusing on being in the right place at the right time. The more prepared I am, the more creative I can be in the moment. After the wedding, I deliver a sneak peek that sets the tone for the full gallery. I personally edit every image, weaving them into a story that flows through the gallery, slideshow, and fine art albums. I believe strongly in the power of print, so every couple receives tangible keepsakes, with the option to create endless art works. For me, the process doesn’t end with delivery—it’s about ensuring their memories are preserved beautifully, both now and for years to come.
Looking ahead, are there any dream shoot locations or destinations you would love to capture, whether here in New Zealand or abroad?
I’m a bit of a nomad, so I have many dream destination spots, but capturing an intimate wedding at Amangiri in Utah is definitely at the top. Also an elopement or shoot in Sossusvlei Namibia. I lived in Las Vegas for a while, and can’t explain it, but there’s just something about being out in the desert. My other love is the water, so Mexico, Banff, Greece and Cinque Terre are all up there.
Your role is both as a visual storyteller and, at times, as a planner. Could you share a memorable moment where these skills came together to elevate a wedding day?
Having both event knowledge and a visual eye has often come in handy during the planning stages to help couples with creative suggestions for styling or to help pre-empt logistical situations. On the day it’s not just about having scissors to cut the stitching left on suit vents, or extra pins for boutonnieres or bobby pins for hair, it’s about being able to help with significant unexpected changes. I’ve had everything from locations falling through as soon as we arrive, to inclement weather, to wardrobe malfunctions and huge schedule changes. I’ve been able assist quickly and creatively to remove the stress from the couple.
What future projects or directions for August & Vine excite you most in the coming years?
I’ve never been one to sit still or get complacent, so I’ve always got something bubbling away. But I’m very excited about where August & Vine’s all-inclusive elopements are heading. It’s not about following trends for me, it’s about being authentic and constantly fine tuning the way I can best show up for my couples. Eloping doesn’t have to be basic, so I’m really passionate about giving lovers a unique experience within our stunning landscapes.
Choosing the right photographer is such an important decision for couples. What advice would you give to those beginning their search, and what should they look for to ensure the perfect fit?
The first place to start is with style—make sure you genuinely connect with the photographer’s approach, from their use of light and colour to how they frame and capture moments. I also recommend looking beyond the hero shots and asking to see full wedding galleries, so you know they can beautifully tell the story of an entire day. Just as important as style is personality—you’ll be spending almost your whole wedding day with your photographer, so it’s essential you feel comfortable and understood in their presence. Meet with your top choices, trust your instincts, and read reviews for reassurance. The perfect fit is someone whose work you love, but also someone you feel truly at ease with.
For more information visit augustandvine.co.nz and @augustandvinephotos. Check out August & Vine in the TJ Directory.
August & Vine
