Christchurch Portrait Photographer
I’m a Christchurch portrait photographer specialising in relaxed, natural sessions for families, couples, and individuals. Whether you’re after timeless family photos or personal portraits, I’ll give you helpful guidance and capture the moments that matter most.
Welcome
I’m so glad you’re here! Whether you’re marking a milestone or just want to freeze a moment in time, I’m here to help you create portraits that feel like you. My sessions are relaxed, thoughtful, and tailored to suit you and your loved one’s preferences. Together we will create images you’ll treasure for years to come.
Portrait Photography Packages
Mini Package
- A planning consultation to discuss styling, locations and the overall look you want to see in your photographs
- 30 minute photography session at a location of your choice within Christchurch
- 6 high resolution digital images, ready to print and share
Classic Package
- A planning consultation to discuss styling, locations and the overall look you want to see in your photographs
- 60 minute photography session at a location of your choice within Christchurch
- 25 high resolution digital images, ready to print and share
Package Upgrades
EXTRA TIME | $125
Add an extra hour to your Classic Package
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS | $450
A 2–3 minute cinematic highlights video set to music.
KEEP THE FULL GALLERY | $340
Upgrade to receive the full gallery of edited images from your session (~60–120 photos).
10 ADDITIONAL IMAGES | $190
Choose 10 extra favourite images to add to your final gallery.
NOTES
All prices include GST and Christchurch-based travel.
Albums, frames, and second photographers are available – just ask.
Social media reels (iPhone 15 Pro) can be provided – please mention this when booking.
Portrait Session Options
Outdoor Portrait Session – We can take advantage of some of the gorgeous scenery available in Christchurch depending on the season. I love the Botanical Gardens and Mona Vale especially in autumn and spring. The Port Hills, Pines Beach, Taylor’s Mistake and the many other special beaches located around Christchurch are gorgeous year round! Outdoor sessions are a lot of fun and will get a lot of real smiles. We will capture a mix of posed and candid shots. Many of my clients come back annually to capture their families growing in a fun, stress free and memorable way. We can add a video to your package to help capture how it all felt.
Family Lifestyle Session – For this session I will come to you and we will capture your day to day life in your own home. This means you can preserve all of those special sweet moments that happen for years to come. I love these sessions because they beautifully capture relationships as they really are.
Maternity Session – These are the fleeting moments that you will treasure for years to come. This is such an exciting phase, you will be glad to have stunning images to remember it by. I love to schedule this for a great sunset on the Port Hills, or at the Christchurch botanical gardens if you have older siblings joining us for the session.
Engagement Sessions – This phase of your relationship is so special. We can take advantage of a great weather window to catch a sunset to make the most of our time together. You will be left with beautiful images for invitations and thank you cards, and lovely pieces of art for the wall.
Newborn Sessions – These special sessions need a bit more time (add an hour or two – we can discuss this).
What to Expect
1. Get in Touch
Send through an enquiry (info@mandycaldwell.co.nz) or book via my contact form. I’ll respond with my availability, help you choose the right package (or customise one), and answer any initial questions.
2. Planning Your Session
We’ll have a relaxed pre-session chat by phone or email to go over:
The look and feel you’re after
Location suggestions around Christchurch
Outfit and styling tips
Who’s joining you, including any kids or pets
3. On the Day
We’ll meet at your chosen location. It might be the Botanic Gardens, a quiet beach, a nearby forest, or your own home.
What to expect during the shoot:
I’ll say hello and give you a quick rundown of how things will flow
I’ll offer friendly direction and ideas to help you feel confident
There’s always space for breaks, snacks, or cuddles with little ones
I’ll help keep the energy calm and comfortable so you can just be yourselves
4. After the Session
I carefully select and edit your images with attention to detail and colour
You’ll receive a curated online gallery with high-resolution images, ready to download, print, and share
You’ll have the option to upgrade your gallery, add a short video or reel, or order prints and albums
Whether we’re soaking up evening light in the Port Hills or capturing everyday magic at home, my goal is always the same. I want to create images that feel like you – honest, heartfelt, and full of connection.
Locations to Consider
- The Christchurch Botanic Gardens – so many beautiful options, under the trees, the conservatories, by the peacock fountain.
- Port Hills – again, so many gorgeous spots! I can recommend a few of my favourite places or you can let me know if you have a special spot to go walking of your own.
- Taylors Mistake – I just love the blue of the sea, the dark rocks and wild vibe this place lends. Favourite spot for a family outing!
- Mona Vale – if you like more formal gardens this is a favourite – the rose gardens, conservatory and fernery are all gorgeous.
- Pine and Sumner Beaches – both have their own rustic charm and a nice range of locations where we can chase the light.
- Halswell Quarry – brilliant if you’d like to start with portraits among tall trees and end your session with a sunset on the hill.
- The Arts Centre – a great spot for graduation photos especially, I love the stone pillars and archways here.
- Your own home or backyard – I love new locations and sometimes home is the best choice for a relaxed session 🤍
Frequently Asked Questions
General & Booking
Where are you based?
I’m based in beautiful Christchurch, New Zealand. I photograph weddings and portrait sessions across Canterbury and beyond.
Do you travel for shoots?
Yes – I love exploring new places! Most of my bookings are within the South Island, but I do take on a limited number of destination weddings and shoots across Aotearoa. Travel fees apply depending on location.
How do I book?
It’s simple – just send through an enquiry via the contact page or email me at info@mandycaldwell.co.nz. I’ll get back to you with availability and next steps. To lock in your date, you’ll just need to sign a booking agreement and pay the retainer.
Can I pencil in a date?
Unfortunately I don’t hold dates without a signed agreement and booking retainer, as popular dates tend to book up quickly.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a 30% non-refundable retainer is required to secure your date. The balance is due closer to your session or wedding.
Do you offer payment plans?
Absolutely – we can split the total into smaller payments to make it more manageable.
What if we need to reschedule?
Life happens! With at least 48 hours’ notice, I’m happy to reschedule your session. If someone is unwell, just get in touch and we’ll sort something.
What if the weather’s bad for our shoot?
I usually wait until the day before to make a call – some of my favourite sessions have been moody and overcast. If the weather’s really wild, we’ll reschedule.
Portrait Sessions
How long does a portrait session go for?
Usually around 45–60 minutes. For newborns or extended family shoots, we need to add more time so it doesn’t feel rushed.
What should we wear?
I’ll send you a style guide with tips to help you choose comfortable, flattering outfits that work beautifully on camera. Neutrals, textures, and movement always photograph beautifully.
Can we include pets or extended family?
Of course – they’re part of the story! Just let me know in advance so I can plan location and timing.
Will you help us feel comfortable in front of the camera?
Yes – I know being photographed can feel awkward, but my sessions are relaxed and gently guided so you can focus on each other. Most people walk away saying it was easier and more enjoyable than they expected!
How long does editing take for portraits?
Portrait galleries are typically delivered within 2–3 weeks.
Will you retouch our images?
I do natural editing and light retouching – removing temporary blemishes and distractions – while keeping skin texture and your natural beauty intact. If you have specific retouching in mind please let me know.
Can we print our portrait photos?
Yes, your gallery will include a print shop, or you can download and print your images elsewhere.
“Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.”
Winnie the Pooh
Client Love
“Highly highly recommended.” Matthew & Ingrid Dwyer
“The photos are absolutely amazing.” Ana & Ben Kelleher
“We couldn’t be happier.” Nate & Cass Cooper
“We couldn’t recommend Mandy more highly” Cam & Tracey Hollings
“We are so thrilled with our wedding photos!” Ruth & Adam McSweeney
“Definitely recommend her A++.” Nikki & Matt McArthur
“Her talent is awe-inspiring.” Holly & Brad Cummings
“My husband and I were so blown away.” Viginia & Zach Cabreana
“I cannot rate her highly enough!!” Charlotte & Simon Brown
“Thank you for such beautiful lasting memories!” Laura & Aidan Brewer
“Amazingly talented, fantastic energy about her.” Kate & Alistair McLean
“Nothing is too hard or a problem, except trying to pick a favourite photo!” Amanda & Alan Guest
About Me
Hi, I’m Mandy. I’m a portrait photographer based in Christchurch. I’ve been married to my husband Pete for 15 years and together we have four beautiful kids. We have William (12), Luke (7), Jamie (4) and Bella (1). As you can imagine family life is full of moments we don’t want to forget. That’s why I love photography!
I started as a professional portrait photographer when we lived in Tasmania in 2010. My background is a bit different – I have a PhD in Behavioural Ecology – which gave me an appreciation for noticing the little things and making meaningful connections.
These days, we live in Christchurch with our wirehaired vizsla Sylvie, a happy flock of chickens and ducks, and even a couple of frogs. We spend as much time as we can outdoors, finding new places to explore around the city and beyond.
I know having your photo taken is sometimes a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. I’ll guide you through it and help you feel relaxed and present so we can create something beautiful and real together.