I am excited to share that I have been named NZ Landscape (Open) Photographer of the year at the prestigious national Iris Awards held in Nelson recently. The Sony New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) Iris Awards attract thousands of top quality entries from around the country and overseas each year. All the entries are judged anonymously over three days by a panel of judges who include some of the most qualified and renowned local and international photographers.
I feel very proud to bring this national award back to the Maniototo as this is the region that has inspired so much of my creative work. I always strive to present a different view of the iconic geography of our province. Winning this award is a high point in my photographic career.
The announcement of the awards came at the end of a busy week in Nelson. I was on the judging panel for the awards for three days and followed this up with giving a keynote address to NZIPP conference delegates where I talked about my creative and business practice. Telling the story of my work and business in front of this very enthusiastic and well informed audience is definitely a career highlight.
I really want to thank all of the people who have helped give me the confidence to pursue my dreams, including my partner Deane, my kids and my parents.