Every year the NZ Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) holds the Iris Awards. The only accredited national photography awards competition across multiple categories. This year, for the 1st time, I threw myself in the deep end and gave it a red hot go... I'd always sat on the fence as to the value an award would add to my work and as a photographer, but I put the awards aside and entered as an opportunity to grow and learn from my peers. Nevertheless, I come out a whole lot wiser and a few awards which I'm pretty chuffed about.

But, at the end of the day it's not about me. It's about the couples that book me and trust me to journey with them on their wedding day. Trust - the very thing I never take for granted as it is this that allows me to interpret and create without fear. A blessing any photographer or creative can understand.

So, here's to all the couples who have booked me over the years and who continue to book me. You guys are the real champions... Thank you!