Queer Wedding Photographer NZ

honouring your love story in its authenticity

for love that doesn’t fit into boxes — and doesn’t want to

the wedding space can feel so hetero

If you’re feeling disconnected from traditional wedding experiences — I don’t blame you at all.

If I had a dollar everytime I see a “Mr. & Mrs.” sign at a venue, or every time a vendor refers to my couples as “the bride and groom”, I could probably retire right now.

You deserve so much more than tolerance. You deserve celebration.

actually celebrating queer love

you deserve a photographer who:

♥︎ goes beyond just “inclusive language”

♥︎ understands your identity without you having to explain it

♥︎ makes you feel totally comfortable in your own skin

no matter how you identify.

because it’s not just about the photos

You don’t just want a photographer who’s just there to snap some photos on your wedding day.

You want someone that also values your love, sees you authentically, and prioritises your presence and connection.

the queer wedding photographer you’ve been looking for

I’m Shelby. And we were totally meant to find each other!

As a queer person myself, I know how important it is to feel safe and celebrated as you are.

I’m so here to champion that queer joy while documenting one of the core moments of your lives!

more unique things that make me me…

I’ve travelled to 14 countries across 6 continents. I’ve navigated airports, language barriers, remote roads and timezone craziness — I know how to make your destination elopement stress free.

Protecting the landscapes we shoot in is just as important to me as capturing them — we tread lightly and love wildly.

As a queer woman, I know how important it is to feel safe and celebrated — your love is worthy, and I’m honoured to witness it.

My background as an actor means I’m tuned in to emotion and nuance — I know how to spot the real moments and hold space for them.

how I help you be 100% present on your day

୨୧ cinematic documentary style

Nothing staged or posed, just you being your silly, fun, beautiful selves. If you forget I’m even there, I’ve done my job.

୨୧ storyboard consultation

Based on your moodboard & daydreams, we’ll put together a plan for how you want your day to translate into photos — your vision is my command.

An unconventional wedding means you can’t just follow a template when it comes to planning. I’m here to help with any of the planning process — this isn’t my first rodeo!

୨୧ customised planning assistance

what my couples say…

"Made the whole process super comfortable"

Shelby is a brilliant photographer and creates the most dreamy images - me and my partner couldn’t believe how magical the photos looked!
She was also so calming and made the whole process super comfortable, even though we don’t normally love being photographed.
I wish I had an excuse to do another photoshoot with her, she’s fantastic!
—Soph + Josh
"Loved that we could be ourselves"

Shelby captured so many magical moments for us!! The photos are even dreamier than I ever imagined!!
I really loved that me and my partner could be ourselves, in the ways that felt comfortable for us 💖
This experience was a real gift!
—Joanna + Nellie
"Beyond our wildest dreams!!"

Shelby created an experience beyond our wildest dreams!!
Neither of us are overly comfortable in front of a camera, but we were able to work with tu studios to develop a vision that was really fun, special and felt unique to us.
We felt supported throughout the whole process, and were able to laugh and relax, while producing gorgeous shots we will cherish ❤️
—Sophie + Kirsty
"You won't just get photos"

She made us feel confident and comfortable throughout the entire day 🥰 Every shot is beautifully captured with perfect angles and lighting. The attention to detail in each photo is incredible, making the final images truly stunning.

You won't just get photos, you'll get cherished memories! Thank you so much once again Shelby for turning our Pinterest board into reality ☺️💖
—Jamie + Livvy

how this works

getting photos that honour your experience

is as easy as 1,2,3…

Step 1: We connect

Let me know when and where you’re looking to get married, and I’ll hop on a call to get to know you and your dreams for your day, and give you ideas or guidance specifically tailored for you.

Step 2: We plan together

Your unconventional love story deserves an unconventional approach to planning. We'll get into the deets of your dream wedding experience together, and make sure that everything completely reflects you and your values as a couple.

Step 3: We celebrate you

On your day, you're fully present while I capture every genuine moment. Your only job is to be 100% present and relaxed — knowing all those irreplaceable moments will be captured truthfully and beautifully.

take the first step

investment in your love story

My intimate wedding packages are designed specifically for couples who want to celebrate authentically, without the pressure of traditional wedding expectations.

✷ minimum 5 hours photo coverage
✷ digital gallery for your cinematic wedding photos
✷ customised timeline & vendor recommendations
✷ travel cost NZ-wide included

intimate wedding experiences start from $4,500 NZD