A man holding a woman in his arms while standing in shallow ocean water at the beach, smiling and looking at each other during sunset with cloudy sky and distant shoreline.

for couples / families / maternity

RELAXED OUTDOOR PHOTOSHOOTS ON WAIHEKE ISLAND

ON MATERNITY LEAVE UNTIL MID-2027

A family of three, a father and two young daughters, playing and running along the shoreline at the beach during sunset, with their reflections visible on the wet sand.

Life gets busy… I get it. But it also moves fast.

Sometimes it feels like you blink and the year’s already gone. But that’s exactly why it’s worth pausing to CELEBRATE the moments that matter - a growing bump, an engagement, anniversary or your kids heading off on their next adventure.

And if you are mum-to-be, the photoshoot is extra sentimental, because your baby will be in your belly just for a very short moment. Celebrate that moment with a picture!

Whether it’s on the beach or tucked away in the bush, Waiheke Island has the perfect backdrop for any occasion. You’ll get photos that feel natural, a bit cheeky, and very much yours.

Your WHY will shape your experience:

✨ Celebrating an anniversary?

✨ Freshly engaged? Congrats!

✨ Expecting a baby?

✨ Want professional photos of the two of you?

✨ Kids leaving the nest?

✨ Ready to finally fill those empty frames at home?

✨ Simply want some uninterrupted time together?

You keep putting the booking off because …

  • You are too busy, you'll book a shoot "once things calm down"

  • or "when you feel more confident"

  • or “when you have more money” and so on…

on maternity leave until mid-2027

·

on maternity leave until mid-2027 ·

If you would like to be the first to know when I reopen bookings, join my newsletter.

SIGN ME UP!

YOUR EXPERIENCE

Your outdoor photoshoot is designed to give you space to settle in, enjoy the moment, and create something intentional and personal.

Your session will take place at either a beach or a park on stunning Waiheke Island, depending on your preference, with easy parking access or just a short walk to the location.

For maternity sessions, the ideal time is between 26–34 weeks of pregnancy, when you are still comfortable and able to move with ease.

What’s included:

— Photoshoot for up to 4 people (extra person $50)

— Up to 60-min session held on Waiheke (enquire for Auckland CBD option)

— Pre-session video call

— A guide to help you prepare

— All the best images from your session (usually between 50-70 digital images)

— Private online gallery for download and prints

— Extra 30min shoot time is $100 (recommended for larger groups or if change of clothing is desired)

Bookings will reopen in 2027

Family of five, including a dog, standing in shallow ocean water on a beach at sunset, with the shoreline and a few trees in the background.
A happy pregnant woman and a man standing by a body of water with trees and cliffs in the background, enjoying a moment together.

  • To secure your booking, a $250 deposit will be required.

    The remaining balance must be settled before the delivery of the final images. While the deposit is non-refundable, it is possible to transfer* it to a different date in case of unsuitable weather or an unexpected emergency. I aim to stay flexible and accommodating to your needs, as I understand that life can be unpredictable at times.

    Following your session, you can expect to receive your beautifully edited gallery of digital images within 2 to 3 weeks. You'll be able to view and download directly to your computer for safekeeping. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about this process. Your satisfaction is my top priority, and I'm committed to ensuring that you have a seamless and enjoyable photography experience.

    After we have confirmed your booking, I offer a complimentary video call so you get familiar with me and during the session, you can relax and enjoy the experience.

    *Subject to my availability

A smiling pregnant woman and a man standing by the water during sunset, with trees and buildings in the background.
Two people, a man and a woman, running and playing on the beach near the water at sunset.
A smiling woman in a white dress hugging a smiling man in a brown shirt outdoors near a rocky shoreline.
A black and white photo of a happy couple at the beach, embracing and smiling with their foreheads touching.
A man and woman walking in the shallow water at the beach with rocks and trees in the distance, under cloudy sky.
A smiling man and woman holding hands and walking on the beach during cloudy weather.
A couple sitting on a wooden dock by a river, surrounded by ducks and swans, with a dense forest in the background at dusk.
A black-and-white photo of a couple embracing each other, with their eyes closed, sitting outdoors near a metal fence and plants.
A happy couple sharing an intimate moment outdoors on a sunny day, with trees and a pathway in the background.
A young couple holding hands and walking in the shallow water at the beach during dusk.
A woman holding hands with a person on the beach, water and shoreline in the background, black-and-white photo.
A man giving a piggyback ride to a girl on a sandy beach with calm ocean waves, a partly cloudy sky, and distant landforms in the background.
A couple celebrating pregnancy on the beach, holding ultrasound photos, with dad and mom caps, and a loving kiss.
A young couple sitting close together, holding hands, and smiling at each other outdoors.
A couple walking barefoot along the shoreline of a beach, holding hands, with a rocky cliff and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
A couple walking along the beach, holding hands, with ocean waves and a cloudy sky in the background.
A man and woman embrace and kiss on the beach during daytime, with the ocean and cloudy sky in the background.
A smiling couple standing in front of a rocky cliff, with the man wrapping his arms around the woman from behind.
A couple standing on a beach with tall layered cliffs and trees in the background, in black and white.
Two people standing barefoot on a sandy surface, viewed from above, with part of their clothing visible.
Person placing a ring on another person's finger during a wedding ceremony on a beach.
A couple sitting on rocks, the man in a brown shirt and white pants, the woman in a white strapless dress, in a natural rocky outdoor setting.
A couple kissing outdoors near a rocky formation with greenery.
An elderly man carrying an elderly woman at the beach, both smiling and embracing each other.
A young couple holding hands on a beach with cliffs in the background during overcast weather.
A smiling couple holding hands near a rocky water formation, with a natural rock arch or cave opening in the background.
A black and white photo of a young man tenderly holding a woman's head, with his hand gently on her scalp. The woman has long, straight hair and is facing away from the camera. The background is blurred.
A couple walking hand in hand along the shoreline of a beach with cliffs and a rock formation in the background during sunset.
A man leaning over a woman who is lying down; they are looking into each other's eyes, in black and white.
A couple holding hands and looking at each other standing on a rock near a large, layered canyon wall.
A couple kissing on a rooftop in an urban cityscape, with high-rise buildings in the background.
Couple holding hands and crossing a city street at a pedestrian crosswalk, surrounded by tall buildings and busy traffic.
A smiling young woman in a white dress and a young man in a striped shirt holding hands on a rooftop with modern buildings in the background.
A man and woman sitting close together outdoors against a white wall, smiling at each other. The man is touching the woman's chin, and she is smiling back. The woman is wearing a white dress with thin straps, and the man is wearing a striped shirt an
A couple kissing on a rooftop parking lot in front of a city skyline with a tall tower in the background.
A young couple is happily embracing and laughing on a rooftop with a city skyline in the background.
A pregnant woman in a black dress walking barefoot on the beach during the late afternoon, with her hand on her belly and a smile on her face, while looking towards the horizon.
A couple with a pregnant woman and a man standing close, looking at each other, in front of a white cloth backdrop with dark, twisted branches overhead.
A couple stands on a beach at sunset, holding hands and facing each other, with cliffs in the background.
A smiling couple holding hands on a beach with a rocky coastline in the background during sunset.
A person walking alone on a sandy beach, leaving footprints in the sand, with the ocean and cliffs in the background.
A man and pregnant woman holding hands in a field with trees in the background.
A man and woman holding hands on a beach with cliffs in the background, sunset lighting
A pregnant woman resting her hand on her belly while sitting with a person, whose hand is also on her belly, in a supportive gesture.
A couple stands on the beach holding hands, with the woman being pregnant. The scene is set during sunset with cliffs and ocean in the background.
A man and a pregnant woman holding hands on a rocky outdoor area with trees and cliffs in the background.
A pregnant woman sitting on a rocky surface, with another person sitting close to her, their hands gently resting on her belly.
A couple walking hand in hand on a beach, smiling and looking at each other, with a hillside neighborhood in the background during sunset.
A couple standing on a pier embracing and kissing, with a body of water on either side, cityscape in the background, and seagulls flying overhead during sunset.
A couple holding hands and smiling on a waterfront dock, with city skyline and cloudy sky in the background.
A couple holds hands and looks out over the water towards the city skyline across the bay, with a tall tower and cranes visible.
A couple standing close together on a beach, facing each other, with the woman gently touching the man's face, both gazing into each other's eyes.
A young couple walking barefoot on a sandy beach with grass and mountains in the background, smiling and looking at each other.
A couple on a beach, with the man lifting the woman in his arms while walking on the sand.
A young couple standing outdoors in a field, smiling and embracing each other during daytime with a cloudy sky in the background.
A couple shares a tender moment at the beach, with the man embracing the woman from behind and kissing her on the cheek as she smiles with her eyes closed.
A happy couple on the beach, with the woman holding an ultrasound image, celebrating a pregnancy.
A couple dancing on the beach at sunset, with waves and rocky shoreline in the background
A smiling woman holding an ultrasound image of a fetus with a man standing behind her with his hands on her pregnant belly.
A smiling pregnant woman standing on the beach holding her belly with one hand and looking at an ultrasound image held by a man in the foreground.
A pregnant woman in a long black ribbed dress standing on a beach, facing sideways with her hand on her belly, with the ocean and cliffs in the background.
A couple holding hands on a beach at sunset, with the sun shining through their hands.
Family of three hugging on the beach, woman wearing a white dress, man and boy in beige and gray sweaters, overcast sky in the background.
A family of five, including a dog, enjoying time at the beach, walking near the water with waves and shoreline in the background during sunset.
Family walking along the wet sandy beach near towering cliffs, with seagulls flying overhead.
A black and white photo of a man and woman jumping and giving high fives on a beach during sunset.
A couple playing with their dog at the beach during sunset.
Four happy people walking along the beach together, arm in arm, enjoying a sunny day.
Group of four people standing at the beach with ocean waves, smiling, during sunset, wearing light-colored summer clothes.
A couple at the beach, with the man carrying the woman on his back as they walk along the shoreline. The woman has her arm raised in celebration, and the sunset casts a warm glow over the scene.
A joyful middle-aged couple hugging and sharing a kiss on a beach during sunset, with the ocean waves in the background.
A woman with long red hair playing tug-of-war with her dog on a sandy beach during sunset.
Four people embracing in a close group hug on a wooden deck outdoors, with trees and water visible in the background.
Family of eight walking along a sandy riverbank by a calm river surrounded by trees, with one adult holding a child's hand and everyone smiling and enjoying the moment.
A group of four people walking on a sandy beach, holding hands, surrounded by trees and greenery. One man is smiling while holding the hand of a woman in a white dress. Two other women walk behind them, smiling and enjoying the outdoor setting.
Family of four enjoying a moment together on the beach, laughing and smiling near a calm river, surrounded by trees.
A happy family of four sitting on the beach, laughing and enjoying each other's company. The family includes a man, a woman, and two young girls, all smiling and interacting with each other. The background features sandy terrain and dark cliffs.
A family of three at the beach during sunset, with two adults holding a child between them. The family is standing at the water's edge, with the ocean and sky with scattered clouds in the background.
A woman in a polka dot dress holding hands with a young boy in a black jacket and beige pants, walking barefoot on a beach near the water.
A man and three young girls playing and running along the shoreline at the beach during sunset, with reflections visible on wet sand and gentle waves in the background.
A family of four sharing a kiss and hugging on the beach during sunset, with ocean waves in the background.
Two young girls kissing a woman on the cheeks at the beach during sunset.
People holding hands and standing at the shoreline with their feet in the water, reflecting in the wet sand.
Three children holding hands and jumping on the wet sand at the beach, with the ocean in the background.
A group of adults and children with their hands together in a circle, seen from above. Some hands are dirty, indicating they have been playing outside.
Family walking on a beach, holding hands, with rocky cliffs in the background.
SEE MILESTONE PHOTOSHOOT PORTFOLIO

Hi,

My name is Irena

A woman sitting on an outdoor wicker sofa, smiling and wearing a gray button-up shirt and cream-colored pants, with large green plants and a beige wall in the background.

I photograph those curious souls who want to share meaningful moments with their people.  

I focus on creating images that celebrate the season of life you’re in right now with a relaxed and intentional approach making the experience enjoyable and meaningful. 

I’ll guide you throughout the entire process, so you never have to worry about what to do or how to pose. Together, we capture images that becomes a positive memory to return to whenever you need a boost. 

Currently on maternity leave until mid-2027.

MY STORY

When you book your session with me, you’ll be able to…

  • Feel relaxed and natural during your photoshoot

  • Slow down and celebrate important milestones

  • Enjoy professional guidance to create meaningful, memorable photos

  • Print and treasure the photos we created together

 FAQs

  • Life is busy, I agree! But I feel like it won't get any slower. Longer you wait, less you document those moments you experience.

    My sessions offer a pocket of time where you don’t have to plan an entire day, fix, or manage anyone. You can pause for a minute and switch off that auto-pilot. It’s a chance to be fully present with yourself and breathe for a moment. All you will need to do is trust my creative vision and let go of pressure and control.

  • I’ve kept it simple and light from start to finish.

    Here’s how it works:
    – You get in touch and we pick a date
    – You sign a photography contract and pay a deposit
    – I’ll guide you through location ideas, what to wear, and what to expect
    – You’ll fill out a short questionnaire before the session so I can get to know everyone better
    – If you have any questions, we can go over them in a complimentary video chat

    That’s it. Easy, right?

  • That’s totally normal. Most people I work with say the same at the start. My sessions are about feeling yourself (or others around you if your partner or family is joining). To soften the nerves, I offer free video chat prior to our session so we get to know each other and when we meet on a day, you already know what to expect.

  • I understand! Sometimes it’s hard to justify investing in something like this. But think of it as an investment in your future. Pictures are your memories. The time, energy, and thoughtfulness we put into this session is something you’ll look back on and appreciate for much longer than a temporary expense. Investing in your memories is a beautiful luxury when you think about it from a different perspective.

  • A 30-minute session is short and sweet. Perfect if you’re after a few beautiful portraits and you’re a bit tight on time. We’ll still create something meaningful and intentional (just in a more focused window).

    A 1-hour session gives us more space to settle in. From experience, it usually takes about 15 minutes for most people to relax into the idea of being photographed (that’s completely normal). With the extra time, we can ease into it, explore more movement, deeper emotional flow, or even change outfits if you’d like. If you’re after variety or a slower pace, this one's for you.

  • You’re not alone! This is more common than you’d think. Many partners feel unsure about photoshoots, but once they see how relaxed and easy the session is, they usually come around (I have heard many times them saying how easy and quick it felt) .

    My focus is on capturing your connection, so as long as you are enjoying each others company, the rest should be easy.

  • Getting out of our comfort zone is the place we grow. Booking a photoshoot is the first brave step. You don’t need to know how it’ll unfold. I’ll guide you gently through the process, so you can move at your own pace. The experience becomes a soft push into something new where courage and vulnerability meet, and the result reflects how far you’ve come.

  • All my outdoor milestone photoshoots take on Waiheke Island. Location we will choose during your booking.

    We’ll usually avoid crowded spots to keep the setting more intimate.

    As for any unwanted “faces” in the background – don’t worry. I’m very good at retouching them out. My goal is to deliver final photos without any unnecessary distractions.

  • Select outfit that strikes a balance between comfort and a touch of elegance, considering these images will be cherished for years to come. After booking, each client receives a clothing styling guide, offering valuable tips and recommendations on colour options, style, and other helpful information to ensure you look your best. Feel free to share your clothing options with me, and together, we can choose the perfect look for your shoot.

  • YES! I have teamed up with an incredible hair and makeup artist who will elevate your look. To book her services, enquire during your photoshoot booking.

  • For outdoor sessions, we always rely on the weather, so I aim to remain as flexible as possible. If the weather is unsuitable, such as strong winds and rain, we'll reschedule for the next available day. Overcast conditions are not considered unsuitable weather; in fact, they can often be even better than clear sky by reducing harsh shadows. Just remember to dress according to conditions.

    I always monitor the weather and will reach out to you if there is a possibility for rescheduling.

  • It's preferable to book at least 2 weeks in advance, but if I have availability, I can do also the next day photoshoot. I just need to pack my bag and charge the batteries.

  • Maternity photography sessions are best scheduled between 26-34 weeks of pregnancy as long as you feel comfortable.

GOT MORE QUESTIONS? EMAIL ME!

No moment is too small to capture! I’ve never met anyone who regretted taking photos only those who wish they had.

You can also think of a photoshoot as your gift for future generations. Your kids and grandkids will treasure them, they will ask questions, and you will have a story to tell.

Finding a photographer whose style speaks to you is important, if you like my style then get in touch. Your satisfaction is my top priority, and I'm committed to ensuring that you have a seamless and enjoyable photography experience.

Client testimonials

  • A woman in a white dress smiles while leaning on a man in a brown shirt, standing outdoors with trees in the background.

    “Working with Irena was an experience we'll never forget. Her ability to capture the essence of our relationship the wild playfulness and the quiet, intimate moments was nothing short of magical.

    During our first shoot, she encouraged us to embrace spontaneity, capturing us laughing and moving freely in the sun. Each shot felt like a true reflection of us, captured with heart and authenticity.

    We couldn’t be happier with the beautifully edited photos Irena delivered. Each image is a piece of art, enhanced with just the right touch to make every detail shine.

    She went above and beyond, capturing far more moments than we ever expected, each one reflecting her exceptional talent and eye for detail. Her dedication to getting the perfect shots made us feel truly valued, and we’re so grateful to have these memories preserved so beautifully.

    Thank you, Irena, for capturing these beautiful memories. They’ll be cherished forever.”

    NICOLE & HENDRIK

  • A couple standing outdoors, embracing and kissing, with a man holding a baby in his arms. The woman is wearing a green dress, while the man is in a white shirt. Rocky background.

    “Thank you for all the captures, we are so grateful to you. You are an amazing person with amazing skill set.

    From maternity session to newborn session and then Mother’s Day and family session you have been so corporative since day one. We just can’t get over how professional the photos turned out.

    We were always thoughtful of how session is going to be, you made us so comfortable and amazed us with the end result. The sessions went so flawless, we love how you make the sessions so relaxed and fun.

    We just love your photography! Looking forward to have another session with you super soon.”

    GAMAK & BHAVESH

  • A happy couple embracing on a beach, both wearing white, with the ocean and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.

    “My partner and I recently had the pleasure of working with Irena, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience!

    From the start, Irena was professional, communicative, and genuinely passionate about capturing the perfect shots. She has a remarkable eye for detail and an ability to make anyone feel comfortable in front of the camera.

    The photos turned out absolutely stunning, with every shot reflecting the mood, emotion and playfulness of the moment. The editing was flawless and added just the right touch of vibrancy without looking overdone.

    I highly recommend Irena to anyone looking for a skilled and creative photographer who truly cares about their clients and their work.

    I look forward to working with her again in the future!”

    ANKITA & PRATIK

  • A couple embracing outdoors under a tree, with a white cloth hanging behind them.

    “Absolutely speechless upon seeing our beautiful gallery from the maternity photoshoot!

    Irena is extremely friendly and asked if we had any specific shots, or shoot locations in mind. We left it completely up to her and that was the best decision ever! Sunrise photoshoot at the beach can be tricky with the tide timings…but she took charge and followed up until the very last evening before the shoot to make sure we get there at the right time, for the best shots!

    Thank you for being so professional, yet friendly, and making me feel gorgeous!

    Looking forward to our newborn shoot next!”

    ISHITA & ANIRUDH

  • Couple sitting on grassy sand dunes at a beach with rocky hills in the background under a cloudy sky.

    “Irena took photos of myself and my partner. It was my partners first photoshoot and Irena was excellent in assisting us from preparation (clothes, make up, jewellery, hair etc) through to picking a wonderful location at a time convenient for us yet perfect for our photos making them far better than we could of wished for.

    I cannot compliment Irena’s direction and professionalism enough either.

    We loved working with her and won’t work with anyone else now.”

    MADISON & BRADEN

  • Family walking on a beach by a large cliff at sunset.

    "We loved working with Irena! We were visiting New Zealand from the US and found Irena on Instagram and thought it would be fun to get pictures done while visiting. Irena worked with the time difference to find a time beforehand for a zoom meeting to talk about our session and introduce herself.

    She responds quickly. She was patient and friendly with our three young children and made everyone feel comfortable during the session. And to top it off, her turnaround time on getting pictures back to us was quick!

    The pictures are stunning and we will cherish them forever. Thank you, Irena! “

    RUDD FAMILY

  • Family sunset photoshoot on Muriwai beach in Auckland.

    “My brother and I were wanting to do a family photoshoot with our parents and dog while we were all together in the country as we are both now living abroad. We found Irena on instagram and LOVED her look/aesthetic of her photographs.

    I reached out, and the rest was history.

    She was communicative, professional, and produced the most AMAZING photos we could’ve hoped for.

    And as a bonus, she was warm, engaging, and put us all at ease during the hour photoshoot we spent with her. She made the most candid beautiful moments happen for the most awkward, camera shy family.

    These photos were priceless and I’m so so so glad we opted for Irena!”

    CHRISTIE WITH FAMILY

  • Engaged couple on a beach during sunset in Auckland.

    “Irena was honestly the perfect photographer. This was the first photoshoot both myself and my fiancé had done and right away Irena made us comfortable going into it.

    Irena made the whole process fun and you could tell how dedicated she was to getting the perfect photos. Irena kept things light and playful but still got some poses in that we think really captured what we were looking for.

    The photos came back great and they came back to us so quickly.

    If Irena did weddings we would ask her to be our photographer based on this experience. Couldn't recommend her more!”

    JOANNA & JONATHAN

  • A couple standing near beach, the woman holds an ultrasound image, indicating pregnancy, while the man embraces her from behind.

    “Irena is an exceptionally talented photographer! After discovering her captivating photography style on Instagram, we selected her for our maternity photoshoot.

    Her passion for her craft and dedication to providing the best experience shines through. Despite our initial camera shyness, she effortlessly put us at ease, capturing our genuine and comfortable moments.

    We highly recommend her and eagerly anticipate our family photoshoot with her!”

    ARATHI & JISHNU

  • Family walking on a beach at sunset, with reflections on wet sand.

    “We had the most incredible family photoshoot with Irena at Piha Beach, and I couldn't be happier with the experience! From the very beginning, she made us feel completely at ease, capturing not just how we look but how we are—the little moments, the laughter, the way the kids run wild and free.

    Piha's dramatic backdrop was the perfect setting, and Irena knew exactly how to use the light and landscape to create magic. She has this effortless way of guiding without posing, making the whole process feel natural and fun. Even the kids, who usually lose patience within minutes, stayed engaged because she made it feel like an adventure rather than a photoshoot.

    The final photos? Absolutely breathtaking. Somehow, she managed to bottle up the feeling of this stage in our lives—the chaos, the love, the in-between moments that often go unnoticed. These are the kind of photos that will bring us right back to this time, even years from now.

    If you're looking for a photographer who truly sees you and knows how to translate that into beautiful images, Irena is the one. Couldn’t recommend her more!

    EGLE & FAMILY