From Scenic to Expressive Landscape Photography
Peak Light Newsletter November 2025
From Scenic to Expressive
I’m proud to share that I was approached by the worldwide Nature Photographers Network to write an article for their Nature Vision Magazine. My first feature article was published in the most recent edition of this magazine (Issue 10, Fall 2025).
In the piece, I reflect on my journey as a landscape photographer — how I’ve come to live between two creative worlds. One is rooted in the scenic and recognisable, the places we know and love. The other reaches toward the expressive and interpretive, where mood, abstraction, and personal vision take the lead. My work continues to span both, and it’s in navigating that space between them that I’ve found my strongest voice.
A scenic image of Te Mata Peak, Hawke’s Bay
It’s a thoughtful read for anyone curious about the shift from documentation to interpretation in landscape photography. The NPN website is full of excellent content too, with contributions from some of the most respected names in the field.
An expressive image taken at the same spot as the above image.
You can find the article, along with more information about the network and magazine, on my website.
Taranaki Workshops and an Unfortunate Accident
As mentioned in last month’s newsletter, October took me to Taranaki for a series of workshops — with a little time set aside for my own wandering. The weather kept us firmly on our toes: calm blue-sky mornings, sideways rain, gales, soft overcast light… sometimes all in the same day.
The upside? Variety. We photographed everything from sweeping seascapes and mountain vistas to intimate waterfalls and lush forest scenes. Adapting to the conditions became part of the adventure and, honestly, part of the fun.
Unfortunately, the trip also delivered a bit of unexpected drama. A freak wave at the Tongapōrutu beach managed to knock me off balance, and my camera gear took an unscheduled swim (note: cameras do not float). My camera body died instantly, and with no backup on hand, that was the end of shooting. Thankfully it happened right at the tail end of the trip — and thanks to good insurance, everything was replaced within a week.
Staying with the theme of evolving from scenic to expressive work, here are two images I created while there:
Unveiling the Maunga - Taranaki.
After an evening of waiting and fading light, I had packed away my gear and turned to leave. Then, in one perfect moment, the clouds lifted. Taranaki Maunga stood revealed, glowing softly above the Stony River — a reminder that sometimes the best moments come when you least expect them.
Reaching Goblin Arms - Taranaki.
Sometimes, it takes looking up to see the world anew. The twisting trunks of Taranaki’s Goblin Forest stretch skyward, reshaping perspective and imagination alike.
Workshops
I’m planning another series of workshops in Taranaki next year — feel free to get in touch if you’d like to be notified when dates are confirmed.
If you’d prefer something sooner, my private and small-group workshops in Hawke’s Bay run year-round. And if you’re looking for a meaningful Christmas or summer holiday gift, a workshop experience could be the perfect choice to slow down, explore Hawke’s Bay, and make beautiful images this summer—no matter your current skill level.
Print Sales
Christmas is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect moment to choose something special for your home — or a heartfelt gift for someone you care about.
I’ve curated a small collection of limited edition framed prints and canvases from recent exhibitions. Each one captures a slice of Hawke’s Bay, crafted with care, printed to a high standard, beautifully presented, and ready to hang.
They’re 25% off, available only until the final pieces find their new homes.
Order before 18 December to receive your print in time for Christmas (NZ only).
Until Next Time
Thank you for following along. Photography is a continuous journey — of light, weather, and perspective — and I’m grateful to share a bit of that with you.
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