Emily Chalk - Photographer

My specialty is photographing people and bringing out their unique personality in a fun and relaxed environment. Although I’m based in Auckland, I love exploring new places and like to work where you feel most comfortable - whether that's at home, on a beach, or anything in between. I have a fully portable studio which I can set up almost anywhere there is electricity, or I can use the gorgeous natural light we enjoy in New Zealand.

I'll help you decide on what to wear and what favorite treasures or places to include in your session to make it feel right for you. I can even arrange a make up artist to help you look your absolute best!

I feel very lucky to be doing something I love. This is not just a job; I've wanted to do this since I was a child with my first disposable camera racking up films (yes good old 35mm ones you processed at the chemist), most full of my lovable but often grumpy grey Persian cat! Fortunately when I was thirteen my father gave me his 35mm SLR and I was really hooked. Today although I still love my cat (not the same one), I prefer to photograph people, especially children and families at different times in their lives.

I studied photography at Unitec and after qualifying I worked with some top New Zealand fashion, wedding and portrait photographers, gaining invaluable first hand experience. I then took the plunge and began freelancing as a wedding and portrait photographer in my own right. In 2006 I made the move to London and worked as a freelance photographer for several years at some of the city’s leading portrait studios. In the last few years I have worked for various magazines producing the editorial images to accompany a story. This includes NEXT, Australian Woman's Weekly, FOOD and Good Heath Choices. I love this work as it has allowed me to meet loads of great new and interesting people and it really pushes me to think on my feet.

I have two young children of my own and I'm grateful to be able to do work I love and have time to spend with them. We live on the fabulous Hibiscus Coast of Auckland; a simply stunning part of the country with many gorgeous locations, although I'm always on the hunt for more!

Let's chat about your ideas for a photography session over a coffee or a glass of wine - give me a call or send me an email, I'd love to talk to you.

Em