In 2025, my photography captured New Zealand’s landscapes, from misty forests to rugged coastlines and mountains. Balancing travel with familiar local scenes, these images reflect both place and personal experience, telling a quiet, honest story of the year in photographs.

In this article, I provide some tips to not only enjoy, but also improve your chances of capturing great images in an unfamiliar landscape.

In this article, I reflect on my evolution as a landscape photographer — from scenic landscapes to more expressive, interpretive work. It was first published in Nature Vision Magazine, Issue 10 (Fall 2025).

Over several mist‑filled mornings below Te Mata Peak, I set out to capture more than just the view — I wanted to express the quiet mood and shifting light of the Tukituki Valley. This series presents images with a more interpretive approach, revealing the beauty, atmosphere, and subtle rhythms of Hawke’s Bay in golden light.

Even the most breathtaking landscapes can start to feel over-familiar when you photograph them often — especially when they’re right on your doorstep. But what if the key to reigniting your creative spark isn’t found in far-off places, but in learning to see the familiar differently? In this post, I share how shifting my focus from sweeping vistas to more intimate details helped me rediscover inspiration in the landscapes I thought I already knew — and how you can do the same.

Step into the serene beauty of Lake Tūtira, where a foggy morning and tranquil waters set the stage for magical reflections and unexpected inspiration. Discover how this 36-hour retreat turned into a photographer’s dream!