Lessons
Learn to use your camera with confidence
From the basics, all the way to the stars!
You may be just getting started, or ready to take your camera skills up a notch. Or maybe you count yourself as pro in the daytime, but want to start to venture out after dark. Perhaps you’ve picked up this new hobby and need a helping hand to get out of auto mode.
I offer in-person photography lessons across Central Otago, as well as virtual lessons anywhere in the world. You can learn in a way that fits in with your lifestyle, at your own pace.
Photography isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s a new way of seeing the world, slowing down and appreciating the beauty that’s present all around us every day. I want you to feel confident behind your camera, and in the editing process afterwards. And if it helps you get outside, explore and see things you’ve never seen before, I’ll consider my job a success.
What You'll Learn
Camera Basics
Perfect for beginners wanting to get off auto mode.
You’ll learn:
- How your camera works
- Understanding ISO, shutter speed & aperture
- Focusing techniques
- How to use light to your advantage
- Simple tips to start capturing better photos right away
Landscape Photography
Learn how to photograph stunning scenery with intention and creativity.
We’ll cover:
- Composition and storytelling
- Working with natural light
- Long exposures & motion
- How to plan shoots based on location, weather, and time of day
Astrophotography
For anyone inspired by the night sky, wanting to capture some of the beauty themselves.
Together we’ll explore:
- The best settings for shooting stars and the Milky Way
- Working in low light
- How to plan astro sessions
- Tips for staying safe and comfortable while shooting at night
One-on-One Learning
Every lesson is just for you. I’ll guide you step by step, focusing on your goals, your pace, and what excites you most about photography.
In Person or Virtual
Choose what works best for you:
- In-person sessions in Wānaka and surrounding areas (perfect for hands-on shoots outdoors).
- Virtual sessions for learning from anywhere.
Great for those who want to learn the basics
of their camera, need guidance on editing or if you have specific questions. These sessions are tailored to you and the questions you have.
Hands-On, Practical & Encouraging
Every session focuses on real-world skills. We’ll shoot together, practice what you’re learning, and make sure you walk away feeling confident and excited to keep exploring.
Who These Lessons Are For
Anyone who wants to:
- Understand their camera
Learn more about landscape photography, or photographing people, or the night sky
Spend more time photographing the outdoors
Take their creativity to the next level
- Learn one-on-one with a passionate photographer
who knows their way around the camera and editing software
All ages and experience levels are welcome. From absolute beginners to hobbyists wanting to refine their technique.
Pricing
Makes for a great gift for someone you know wanting to get into photography!
Virtual Sessions
1-hour session
$100 NZD
3 x 1-hour session
$275 NZD
6 x 1-hour session
$500 NZD
In Person
2 hour Adventure
Let’s go out to take photos in beautiful Wanaka to get familiar with your camera.
$250 NZD
4 hour Adventure
We can explore more of what Central Otago has to offer by taking photos in beautiful Wanaka/Queenstown getting familiar with your camera.
$475 NZD
Mix of Virtual and In Person Adventure
We can spend an hour on Zoom getting to know some camera basics. Then we can plan an adventure to capture photos of what you are interested in. After taking the photos, we can follow up the adventure with an hour virtual editing session.
$450 NZD (four hours total)
If you would like a different combination of virtual and in person adventures, reach out and see what we can custom create together.
I’m Kara, a photographer who loves capturing the people, places, and moments that make life outside unforgettable. Whether I’m hiking, snowboarding, or photographing the night sky, I’m inspired by adventure, mountains, and the beauty of nature. I’m passionate about empowering women to get outdoors, explore, and capture their own stories along the way.
Whether you’re curious about the basics or excited to take on more advanced techniques, I’d love to help you grow as a photographer. Let’s build your skills, spark your creativity, and get you outside capturing the beauty of Aotearoa and beyond.