MY JOURNEY INTO PHOTOGRAPHY

What started as a childhood curiosity has grown into a lifelong love for capturing real moments. Photography has become my way of seeing, connecting, and remembering. A reflection of the people, places, and stories that shape me.

Photography has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My first “camera” was an iPad back in 2013, when I was just a kid capturing whatever caught my eye. I even had a small Instagram account called @misscocophoto. I have no idea what happened to it, but it was the start of something that stuck. Mum always had a camera around, and at Selwyn House, I joined Jo Grams’ after school photography course. I’ll never forget capturing the Akaroa Lighthouse on a moody, grey day. The heavy clouds and glow from the base made me realise how powerful an image could be. From then on, my family encouraged me, and their support gave me the confidence to keep going.

Two children, a girl and a boy, posing in front of a school gate with a round sign that has a bird logo and the words "I CAN, I WILL, SELWYN HOUSE SCHOOL, TUKWILA" on it.

Growing up on farms around Banks Peninsula, South Canterbury, Oxford, and later moving to Christchurch, shaped how I see the world. Farm life was my bread and butter, and moving often meant I matured faster than some of my peers. Inspiration also came from people around me. On the farm in Pigeon Bay, Elise was often around, and I admired her photography. Later, I met Maz (Malia Rose), whose candid, authentic style resonated deeply with me. Even though she isn’t working as a photographer now, she’s still one of my biggest supporters, happy to answer questions and lend me her camera.

A black pickup truck parked on a green field under a bright blue sky with some clouds, with a dog sitting on the truck bed.

I’ve mostly taught myself along the way, learning through trial and error, and I am still learning. Photography was a hobby for a long time, but last year it became more serious. People began inviting me to photograph sports events, and travelling to Scotland opened new opportunities. I’ve realised photography isn’t about perfect gear or flawless technique, it’s about capturing real moments and embracing imperfection. Behind the camera, I feel both relaxed and challenged, calm in the moment but always pushing myself to create something meaningful. I want my photos to tell authentic stories that make people feel proud, seen, and celebrated.

A yellow and black New Holland combine harvester working in a field, harvesting crops on a sunny day with trees and green landscape in the background.

One of my proudest moments was working with Solle Collective on their brand launch. I was nervous, but the energy and support from Amelia and Siana made it memorable. One of those shoots even took me back to Maungati, near Craigmore Station, where I spent much of my childhood. A full-circle moment connecting my roots with photography. I’ve also met incredible people through my work, like internationally renowned photographer Dave Richards, whose generosity and humility left a lasting impression.

Three young men outdoors on a grassy hillside with bushes and trees. One is sitting on the ground wearing a light gray sweater and boots, and two are standing nearby, one in a blue sweater and the other in a tan sweater, engaged in a conversation.

Photography started as a simple curiosity and has grown into something much deeper, a way of seeing, connecting, and remembering. It’s about people, places, and stories, and I can’t wait to see where it continues to take me.

Coco x