Kia ora!


I am Ces, a New Zealand wedding and portrait photographer based in Christchurch and also contribute to the betterment of our community. I also travel around New Zealand to capture beautiful weddings.


I am an introvert. I don't infuse another personality just for you to book me. If you don't want an introvert - I am not the photographer for you - and that's perfectly OK!


I'm not one to push for sales, but if you appreciate my work, please consider booking me for your wedding or your next photoshoot.


Photography is my creative outlet. By day, I’m a full-time software developer with a background in Computer Science, but behind the lens, I find joy in telling stories through images. That’s why I strive to offer affordable photography services—to make beautiful memories accessible while doing the best of both worlds - software development and photography.


I believe love is love, beauty comes in all forms, and every story deserves to be told. I’ve had the honor of photographing couples from diverse backgrounds—different cultures, traditions, same-gender weddings, and people of all sizes and ages. Inclusivity is at the heart of what I do.


Weddings aren’t styled sets or model shoots—they’re real people, real timelines, real emotions, and unpredictable weather. That’s what makes them beautiful. I do not use stock photos or styled shoots in place of real weddings.


Create. Curate. Donate.


Explore the Moments


A Big Thank You

Thank you to all my couples for being part of creating memories while giving back. 💙

Proud to support Heart Foundation New Zealand

Giving back to the community

 

As a software developer and photographer, I believe in the power of giving back. Starting in 2025, $50 from every wedding booking will be donated to Heart Foundation New Zealand. Your ongoing support allows me to give back to the community while also creating opportunities for my team.


For me, photography is about more than just capturing beautiful moments — it’s about continuing this journey of creating memories while giving back.


I truly believe that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference. By choosing to work with me, you’re directly supporting meaningful causes and adding a deeper sense of purpose to our journey together.


As a heart attack survivor, I'm proud to support the Heart Foundation New Zealand and excited to continue making a positive impact with your help.



Total donations so far:

2026: $ 850

2025: $ 1,400

2024: $ 950

2023: $ 1,200


Every wedding has its own magic — whether it’s in a grand venue, a vineyard, by the beach, or surrounded by the warmth of a family farm. I’ve been lucky to photograph couples in all kinds of settings, and each one tells a different story. If you’d like to see some of my work from relaxed, outdoor celebrations, take a look at my Farm & Backyard Weddings gallery.


A small thing you might not know about me


I paint weddings too. It is another form of art I do.


If you are keen to have your wedding painted and photographed, please let me know so we can arrange something.


Through the Years: A Journey in Family Photography


In my early days as a budding photographer, back when my business was just starting out, I got a booking from a warm, lovely family who wanted family photos. They know I was new to the business, and they probably didn’t care—I was just someone with a camera willing to capture their smiles and shared moments. Those early shoots meant the world to me, and this family especially stood out because they became regulars, coming back as their kids grew, bringing their warmth and trust. They became part of my journey, my portfolio, and a thread in my story as a photographer.


One day, however, that story took an unexpected turn. I had a small heart attack and needed to be hospitalised. When I came to in my hospital bed, I was greeted by a familiar face: the doctor was from the family who had been one of my clients. He’d been there for the big moments of his family’s life, and now, he was here for me in a completely unexpected role.


After I recovered, we continued our annual sessions. Life had taken us full circle. They’d been there when I started; he’d been there when I stumbled. And now, every time I photograph their family, it was a reminder that this work isn’t just about photos —it’s about the lives you intersect with, sometimes in the most unexpected ways.


It’s humbling to see how lives intertwine in unexpected ways.


Understanding Lighting & Editing in Professional Photography


Many couples today also receive phone footage from guests or content creators, and it's natural to compare. It's important to know that smartphones use automatic filters and AI to instantly brighten images, soften shadows, and warm up colors—often giving a very flat, bright look. As a photographer, I take a more intentional approach. I aim to preserve the natural mood of the day, including the contrast, lighting, and atmosphere that make your photos feel real. This may mean shadows are kept for depth and sunlit moments are carefully balanced—not blown out. My editing is guided by both creative vision and technical care, ensuring your gallery feels authentic and polished, not overly filtered or artificial.


Contact Us

I'd love to hear from you!

Please fill up the form below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

If you have not received a reply, please check your spam folder as sometimes it ends up in there.


Ces

ces@cesphotography.co.nz

021 436 773

Please use this contact form, sending an email directly sometimes ends up in my spam folder which is rarely checked.


Why Representation Matters in Wedding Photography

Not every portfolio is created with inclusion in mind. Here's how Ces Photography ensures every couple feels seen, celebrated, and valued—regardless of body size, culture, skin tone, or love story.

Common Industry Portfolios

  • • Use black-and-white edits for people of colour
  • • Only showcase thin, Eurocentric couples
  • • Avoid showing same-gender weddings
  • • No visible plus-sized brides or grooms
  • • Lack of cultural or interfaith weddings

At Ces Photography

  • • Proudly feature diverse body types & skin tones in full color
  • • Celebrate same-gender love stories
  • • Honour cultures, traditions, and interfaith unions
  • • Thoughtful editing that respects all skin tones
  • • Inclusive messaging that's visible, not just stated

Representation isn't a trend. It's a commitment. Every couple deserves to see themselves in the story of love.


Kind words from lovely clients

Alyssa and Jevahn

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"Ces was amazing! He captured my wedding perfectly, I couldn’t have asked for anything better! Ces is so friendly and chatty which made it easy for Jevahn & I to relax and be ourselves in front of him. I was also very impressed with how fast we received our photos - with our engagement shoot it was only later that evening! I would 100% recommend Ces for anyone looking for a wedding photographer! You will not be disappointed"

1 / 22


FAQ

What makes you different from other photographers?

What sets me apart from other photographers is a multifaceted approach to creativity and community. As an introvert, I use photography and painting as outlets for my artistic expression, capturing moments and emotions that resonate. Beyond my creative pursuits, I am dedicated to giving back to the community and creating opportunities for my team, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Additionally, my full-time role as a software developer allows me to bring a unique blend of technical precision and creative vision to my work, making my photography and art distinctive.

I also embrace the diversity that makes each wedding unique.

Are you an inclusive photographer?

Since 2018, I’ve proudly photographed weddings that celebrate the rich diversity of people, cultures, and traditions. From same-gender weddings to multicultural celebrations, interfaith unions, and couples of all ages and sizes, I am honored to capture their story authentically - and showcase it in my gallery.

When you visit my website, you’ll find the vibrant stories of couples from all walks of life. This isn’t just a portfolio; it’s a testament to the beauty of inclusivity and the belief that every love story deserves to be seen, celebrated, and cherished.

Representation matters, and it's clear there's a shortage of photographers highlighting this. Take a moment to explore my work—I'm proud to contribute to changing that narrative.

Why is your pricing reasonable/affordable/competitive compared to other services?

Several reasons why:

There is really no need for me to charge higher as I work full time as a software developer, I do photography for fun!

I believe that I should not charge higher simply because I am capable of doing so..

The way I charge for photography is just perfect for my small business.

I am not dependent on this income because I have a full time job, win-win!

I wanted to offer competitive wedding photography packages right from the start.

I am passionate about both photography and software development. This allows me to keep my pricing affordable, as I am fortunate enough to have the best of both worlds.

As a software developer, I manage my own website. I don't pay another tech guy to do it for me - this reduces the cost.

I choose not to pay wedding directories to be featured on their websites since it would add an extra cost that would ultimately be passed on to clients.

Can we keep our photos private?

I completely respect clients who prefer to keep their photos private.

Ces Photography offers a non-marketing option for those who do not wish for their images to appear on my website, social media, or promotional materials.

Weddings
• 3-hour coverage: +$500
• 6-hour coverage: +$1,000
• 9-hour coverage: +$1,500

Family, Maternity, and Portrait Sessions
• Flat privacy fee: +$500

Choosing this option ensures your gallery remains completely private — no photos will be used for marketing or portfolio display.

Are you looking to do this full time?

Although I appreciate the creativity that photography offers, my primary interest lies in the technical aspects of software development. It's not my intention to pursue photography as a full-time career, as I indulge in photography purely for leisure.

My pleasure in photography is twofold: not only do I relish the act of capturing beautiful images, but I also value the chance to contribute to the community and create opportunities.

How long have you been a photographer?

I have been pursuing photography as a hobby since 2009. In 2017, I turned this passion into a small business after a colleague requested a maternity photoshoot, and expanded into wedding photography in 2018.

Learn more about my journey on the About page.

How many weddings did you photograph?

2018: 9
2019: 31
2020: 44
2021: 32
2022: 42
2023: 51
2024: 43
2025: 42

How many weddings are you photographing?

2026: 31 so far
2027: 9 so far

Are you a professional photographer?

It is a hotly debated topic at the moment on what makes a professional photographer. As you know, I work full time as a software developer, I don't say I am a professional software developer. Have a look at my gallery and if you love the photos, please get in touch. Like many other photographers out there, I do not have any certification nor diploma about photography. I do use professional Canon equipment to give you great image quality.

What's your investment?

With my wedding photography, it’s not an ‘investment’—your money won’t grow with me, but the memories will! Check out the straightforward pricing, no need to fill up forms to see it!

How long before we receive our wedding photos?

After the wedding, preview photos are usually available between 24 and 36 hours.

The rest of the photos usually takes between 3-5 weeks.

Do you use professional equipment?

To give you great quality images, I use professional Canon equipment.

Below is my equipment list:
Canon R5
Canon EF 16-35 f4 IS USM
Canon RF 35mm f1.8 IS STM
Canon EF 85mm f1.4 L IS USM (favourite for portraits)
Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L IS USM II
Canon Speedlite 480 EX II
Canon R7
Camera 31147

I also rent gear when needed.

Have you studied photography?

I am self taught like many photographers out there! Photography is a hobby since 2009. The small business started in 2017 when my colleague asked me for maternity photos. I guess you can say the rest is history.

Do you travel?

Although I primarily photograph weddings in Christchurch, I am available for travel throughout New Zealand. Our work has taken us to various locations, including Timaru, Ashburton, Akaroa, Lake Tekapo, Wellington, Palmerston North, Blenheim, Nelson and Pleasant Point.

I am always excited to explore new locations and capture beautiful moments for our lovely couples.

Do you put logos/watermarks on your photos?

If photos are for my couples, then no. Personally, I am not a fan of pesky logos on my photos.

If vendors want to use the photos, then yes.

Do you edit photos?

Absolutely, I edit photos based on my personal style, which emphasizes natural and vibrant colors. I avoid excessive editing that can make photos appear unrealistic or fanciful. I do not modify the subjects' appearances in the images or add any artificial elements such as fake sun rays, fog, fireworks, etc.

It is not the washed out or desaturated colours.

However, I do have other ways to edit, feel free to check it out in the Editing Styles page.

How much is the deposit for weddings?

$500 is the deposit for weddings. This comes off the total balance.

Can we meet you?

I would love too! Please use the contact page or we can setup a video call as I am Christchurch based.

It would be a great time to show you more wedding photos not on the website and see if you are comfortable with me being your photographer.

Are you an award winning photographer?

Who needs awards when I've already captured the most prized moments?

I may not have any awards for my wedding photography, but I guarantee your love story will be the real winner!

Can you add a T-rex or giant cat in our wedding photos?

As much as I love the idea of a T-Rex chasing the bridal party or a majestic giant cat lounging behind the ceremony, my editing style leans more timeless than Jurassic. My focus is capturing the real magic—no extinction events required. If a dino does show up, I promise to get a great shot.

Do you back up our wedding photos?

Yes, absolutely. Your memories are too important to risk. From the moment I start photographing, every photo is written to two memory cards at the same time (so there’s an instant duplicate). As soon as I get home, I copy everything to my work system and then make additional backups onto separate devices. In total, your wedding photos are stored in five different places — so they’re safe and secure.


Christchurch Wedding and Portrait Photographer

Available anywhere in New Zealand