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Heatwave Love - a Couple Photoshoot at Okitu Beach, Gisborne

Heatwave Love - a Couple Photoshoot at Okitu Beach, Gisborne

Heatwave Love - a Couple Photoshoot at Okitu Beach, Gisborne

Feb 111 min read

Rainy Romance - a Cinematic Couple Photoshoot in Gisborne

Rainy Romance - a Cinematic Couple Photoshoot in Gisborne

Rainy Romance - a Cinematic Couple Photoshoot in Gisborne

Feb 111 min read

Couple Adventure Session in Gisborne

Couple Adventure Session in Gisborne

Couple Adventure Session in Gisborne

Feb 111 min read

Golden Love at Makorori - A Surfing Sunset Session in Gisborne

Golden Love at Makorori - A Surfing Sunset Session in Gisborne

Golden Love at Makorori - A Surfing Sunset Session in Gisborne

Dec 17, 20251 min read

Between Light and Shadow - Dark Romance Sunset Session in Gisborne

Between Light and Shadow - Dark Romance Sunset Session in Gisborne

Between Light and Shadow - Dark Romance Sunset Session in Gisborne

Oct 29, 20251 min read

8 Easy Outfit Tips for Beautiful Family Photos

8 Easy Outfit Tips for Beautiful Family Photos

8 Easy Outfit Tips for Beautiful Family Photos

Jun 12, 20252 min read

Love in Focus: a Golden Engagement Session in Gisborne

Love in Focus: a Golden Engagement Session in Gisborne

Love in Focus: a Golden Engagement Session in Gisborne

Jun 12, 20251 min read

Top 10 Family Photography Spots in Gisborne

Top 10 Family Photography Spots in Gisborne

My Top 10 Family Photography Spots in Gisborne

Jun 11, 20254 min read

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Editing - the glow-up stage of every photo.
It took me a long time to stop treating it like a magic band-aid for everything though. Turns out… if you love your photo in camera, you’ll love it even more in editing. Getting it right at the start is still the real secret sauce.

That said, editing is my happy place. I love playing with colours like a mad scientist until I find the perfect recipe for each session. And this is the base I always come back to.

Pure Gold. I can’t describe it any better.

I’d love for you to try these settings and see what you create with them - and I’d really love to see your results too.

And if you want to save time (don’t we all), my new Pure Gold AI Lightroom preset is ready and waiting - link in bio.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Editing - the glow-up stage of every photo.
It took me a long time to stop treating it like a magic band-aid for everything though. Turns out… if you love your photo in camera, you’ll love it even more in editing. Getting it right at the start is still the real secret sauce.

That said, editing is my happy place. I love playing with colours like a mad scientist until I find the perfect recipe for each session. And this is the base I always come back to.

Pure Gold. I can’t describe it any better.

I’d love for you to try these settings and see what you create with them - and I’d really love to see your results too.

And if you want to save time (don’t we all), my new Pure Gold AI Lightroom preset is ready and waiting - link in bio.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Ahhh this shoot, you guys… THIS ONE.

I will never get tired of singing odes to the beauty right at our back door here in Gisborne. This session had everything - a whole field of wild flowers right by the beach, the most gorgeous golden sunset, and of course the sweetest mama and baby daughter duo.

Heart is full. More of this please.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#dirtybootsandmessyhair #authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #familyphotography #cinematicphotographer

Keywords: Gisborne family photographer, sunset session, mother and daughter, beach session, storytelling photography, real moments, cinematic light, flower field photoshoot, family love, visual storytelling

Ahhh this shoot, you guys… THIS ONE.

I will never get tired of singing odes to the beauty right at our back door here in Gisborne. This session had everything - a whole field of wild flowers right by the beach, the most gorgeous golden sunset, and of course the sweetest mama and baby daughter duo.

Heart is full. More of this please.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#dirtybootsandmessyhair #authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #familyphotography #cinematicphotographer

Keywords: Gisborne family photographer, sunset session, mother and daughter, beach session, storytelling photography, real moments, cinematic light, flower field photoshoot, family love, visual storytelling

Sweet pea season. My favourite time of the year.

Tiny postcards to your future self - straight out of a fairytale.

Sweet pea minis are now booking.
Message me if you’d love your family photos among the blooms. 🌸

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #cinematicphotographer #bitesandtickles

Sweet pea season. My favourite time of the year.

Tiny postcards to your future self - straight out of a fairytale.

Sweet pea minis are now booking.
Message me if you’d love your family photos among the blooms. 🌸

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #cinematicphotographer #bitesandtickles

Roses fade. Chocolate disappears.
But these moments stay forever.
Valentine’s Day is coming… just saying. 👀💌

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #newzealandphotography #lovephotography #couplesphotography #gisbornephotographer

Roses fade. Chocolate disappears.
But these moments stay forever.
Valentine’s Day is coming… just saying. 👀💌

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #newzealandphotography #lovephotography #couplesphotography #gisbornephotographer

Your little pieces of forever. ✨

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #newzealandphotographer #gisbornephotographer #familyphotographer

Your little pieces of forever. ✨

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #newzealandphotographer #gisbornephotographer #familyphotographer

Behind the scenes = sand everywhere, wind in our faces, and way too much laughing 🎥🌊
This is what your session actually looks like.
Every shoot = one big love story (plus chaos).

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #couplesphotographer #familyphotographer #newzealandphotographer

Behind the scenes = sand everywhere, wind in our faces, and way too much laughing 🎥🌊
This is what your session actually looks like.
Every shoot = one big love story (plus chaos).

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #couplesphotographer #familyphotographer #newzealandphotographer

My very first BTS reel is here 🎬
Ask me anything about how I shoot and create.
Tell me if you like this kind of content -
I spent half my day filming this… so be nice 😅

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

My very first BTS reel is here 🎬
Ask me anything about how I shoot and create.
Tell me if you like this kind of content -
I spent half my day filming this… so be nice 😅

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

This one stayed with me.
So I’m giving it the space it deserves here.

Sunset sessions are my forever love.
And capturing your children in every stage of their life is something you will never look back on and wish you hadn’t done.

These photos won’t just be pretty - they’ll mean everything later.
Simple as that.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#familyphotographer #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotographer

This one stayed with me.
So I’m giving it the space it deserves here.

Sunset sessions are my forever love.
And capturing your children in every stage of their life is something you will never look back on and wish you hadn’t done.

These photos won’t just be pretty - they’ll mean everything later.
Simple as that.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#familyphotographer #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotographer

Love, but make it cinematic.
Would you travel to New Zealand for a sunset story like this?

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #shortfilms #cinematiccouple #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

Love, but make it cinematic.
Would you travel to New Zealand for a sunset story like this?

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #shortfilms #cinematiccouple #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

The most requested part two of any session I’ve ever done.
The craziest pouring rain I’ve ever allowed myself to jump into with my camera.
And another proof that limits only live in your head.

The real you begins when you stop playing it safe.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #authenticlovemag

The most requested part two of any session I’ve ever done.
The craziest pouring rain I’ve ever allowed myself to jump into with my camera.
And another proof that limits only live in your head.

The real you begins when you stop playing it safe.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #authenticlovemag

Hi, I’m Maria.

My style is cinematic and emotional, but always real. I love turning everyday moments into something that feels like a movie. Wind in your hair, sand on your feet, kids being kids, couples being in love… that’s my thing.

A little about me:
- Born in Ukraine, now living in beautiful Gisborne, NZ
- I speak English, Ukrainian, Russian & German
– Coffee order: oat milk cappa
– Current reads: One Dark Window 🖤

I work with families and couples who value connection over perfection and want their photos to feel like them.

If this sounds like your vibe, I’d love to meet you and tell your story 🤍

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

Hi, I’m Maria.

My style is cinematic and emotional, but always real. I love turning everyday moments into something that feels like a movie. Wind in your hair, sand on your feet, kids being kids, couples being in love… that’s my thing.

A little about me:
- Born in Ukraine, now living in beautiful Gisborne, NZ
- I speak English, Ukrainian, Russian & German
– Coffee order: oat milk cappa
– Current reads: One Dark Window 🖤

I work with families and couples who value connection over perfection and want their photos to feel like them.

If this sounds like your vibe, I’d love to meet you and tell your story 🤍

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

What a beautifully cinematic week it’s been.
After a long Christmas break, I felt the urge to shake things up… and landed in the most challenging, magical sessions.

One in pouring rain.
One under 30-degree heat and blazing sun.
One deep into blue hour, with the light disappearing far sooner than planned.

Another reminder that as photographers, we can only control so much.
The rest is about adapting - to the weather, the light, and most importantly, the people in front of the camera.

I pushed my couples well outside their comfort zones. Forever grateful for their willingness to roll with every unexpected moment.

My heart is full.
So much more beauty is yet to come.

…

Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

What a beautifully cinematic week it’s been.
After a long Christmas break, I felt the urge to shake things up… and landed in the most challenging, magical sessions.

One in pouring rain.
One under 30-degree heat and blazing sun.
One deep into blue hour, with the light disappearing far sooner than planned.

Another reminder that as photographers, we can only control so much.
The rest is about adapting - to the weather, the light, and most importantly, the people in front of the camera.

I pushed my couples well outside their comfort zones. Forever grateful for their willingness to roll with every unexpected moment.

My heart is full.
So much more beauty is yet to come.

…

Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.

#cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

“what if our love stories are not about our lovers. but are the tales of how we found ourselves…” L.E. Bowman

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#gisbornephotographer #cinematicphotography #newzealandphotographer

“what if our love stories are not about our lovers. but are the tales of how we found ourselves…” L.E. Bowman

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#gisbornephotographer #cinematicphotography #newzealandphotographer

Whispers of the ocean.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

…
#cinematic #cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

Whispers of the ocean.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

…
#cinematic #cinematicphotography #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer

Your cinematic love. 🎞️

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotographer

Your cinematic love. 🎞️

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotographer

Dancing in the rain.
Cold wind in your hair.

This is what I mean when I say experience over everything.
Feeling it all - the laughter, the goosebumps, the way a warm embrace becomes home when the wind howls.

This moment.
The rain you danced in.
The love you felt in your bones.

That can never be taken away from you.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #cinematic #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #authenticlovemag

Dancing in the rain.
Cold wind in your hair.

This is what I mean when I say experience over everything.
Feeling it all - the laughter, the goosebumps, the way a warm embrace becomes home when the wind howls.

This moment.
The rain you danced in.
The love you felt in your bones.

That can never be taken away from you.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#cinematicphotographer #cinematic #gisbornephotographer #newzealandphotographer #authenticlovemag

If this made you feel something, that’s your sign.
Come roam the East Coast with me and create something honest, intimate, and deeply yours.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

If this made you feel something, that’s your sign.
Come roam the East Coast with me and create something honest, intimate, and deeply yours.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

It’s Christmas time in New Zealand 🍓

#pohutukawa #christmasinnewzealand #nzchristmas #photographerlife

Bond. Illuminate.Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

It’s Christmas time in New Zealand 🍓

#pohutukawa #christmasinnewzealand #nzchristmas #photographerlife

Bond. Illuminate.Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every family who trusted me this year - whether it was Christmas minis, sunsets, celebrations or the beautifully ordinary moments in between.
Let the silly season begin now… exciting, chaotic and full of love.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every family who trusted me this year - whether it was Christmas minis, sunsets, celebrations or the beautifully ordinary moments in between.
Let the silly season begin now… exciting, chaotic and full of love.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

That summer feeling…

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

That summer feeling…

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The branding session for @keathelabel was nothing short of magical. The most beautiful garments in iconic Gisborne settings. These photos make my soul sing.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The branding session for @keathelabel was nothing short of magical. The most beautiful garments in iconic Gisborne settings. These photos make my soul sing.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

What gear do I use?
One of the most common questions I get from other photographers… so here you go.

For this beautiful family maternity session, I used my Tamron EF 35mm 1.4 - and honestly, 35mm is my ride-or-die. It lets me stay close and keep things real.

My main photo/video body: Canon R5.
My second camera (weddings or when I’m too lazy to switch lenses): Canon 5D Mark IV.

My lenses:

- Canon EF 24-70 2.8
- Canon RF 35 1.8
- Tamron EF 35 1.4
- Canon EF 50 1.2
- Canon EF 85 1.2
Which one do I actually use the most? The tiny but unbeatable Canon RF 35 1.8. Lightweight, versatile, and unless we’re in a cave, you’d never know it’s not a prime. It lives on my camera more than anything else.

But I do love to shake things up now and then. Especially for creative sessions, I’ll pick the lens I’ve been neglecting the most and force myself to play.

…

Bond. Illuminate.Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

What gear do I use?
One of the most common questions I get from other photographers… so here you go.

For this beautiful family maternity session, I used my Tamron EF 35mm 1.4 - and honestly, 35mm is my ride-or-die. It lets me stay close and keep things real.

My main photo/video body: Canon R5.
My second camera (weddings or when I’m too lazy to switch lenses): Canon 5D Mark IV.

My lenses:

- Canon EF 24-70 2.8
- Canon RF 35 1.8
- Tamron EF 35 1.4
- Canon EF 50 1.2
- Canon EF 85 1.2
Which one do I actually use the most? The tiny but unbeatable Canon RF 35 1.8. Lightweight, versatile, and unless we’re in a cave, you’d never know it’s not a prime. It lives on my camera more than anything else.

But I do love to shake things up now and then. Especially for creative sessions, I’ll pick the lens I’ve been neglecting the most and force myself to play.

…

Bond. Illuminate.Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

I was only falling in love…

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

I was only falling in love…

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

3 things that completely changed my photography this year:

1. I stopped being afraid of shadows.
Well-lit image from every angle isn’t how our eyes see the world - and that’s exactly the point. Shadows and contrast make an image feel real. They tell stories light alone can’t.

2. I started moving more - not my models.
If you want your photos to look cinematic, you can’t just stand still. Move around your subjects. Get low, climb high, step back, get in close. Change the angle, change the emotion.

3. I stopped using creative sessions just for content.
They became my playground - a space to experiment, push limits, use lenses I’d normally avoid.

And the biggest revelation?
You don’t start with a cinematic style - you grow into it.
Pretty, colourful photos are easy. But creating images that feel like a story… that’s where the real magic begins.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #cinematicphotographer #bitesandtickles

3 things that completely changed my photography this year:

1. I stopped being afraid of shadows.
Well-lit image from every angle isn’t how our eyes see the world - and that’s exactly the point. Shadows and contrast make an image feel real. They tell stories light alone can’t.

2. I started moving more - not my models.
If you want your photos to look cinematic, you can’t just stand still. Move around your subjects. Get low, climb high, step back, get in close. Change the angle, change the emotion.

3. I stopped using creative sessions just for content.
They became my playground - a space to experiment, push limits, use lenses I’d normally avoid.

And the biggest revelation?
You don’t start with a cinematic style - you grow into it.
Pretty, colourful photos are easy. But creating images that feel like a story… that’s where the real magic begins.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#authenticlovemag #gisbornephotographer #dirtybootsandmessyhair #cinematicphotographer #bitesandtickles

Free. In love. Exactly where we’re meant to be…

Photos are time captured. Short films are the feeling. You need both to relive that moment in time again and again.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Free. In love. Exactly where we’re meant to be…

Photos are time captured. Short films are the feeling. You need both to relive that moment in time again and again.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

She’s the whisper in his storm.
He’s the chaos she never feared.
He carries the dark, but for her, he bends the shadows.
In the last light of day, they find their truth.
This is not soft love. This is worship through ruin.
...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#darkromancephotography #couplessession #moodyaesthetic #sunsetlovers #fineartphotography #romanticphotoshoot #mariawilkensphotography #gisbornephotographer #moodyportraits #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography #authenticlovemag

She’s the whisper in his storm.
He’s the chaos she never feared.
He carries the dark, but for her, he bends the shadows.
In the last light of day, they find their truth.
This is not soft love. This is worship through ruin.
...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#darkromancephotography #couplessession #moodyaesthetic #sunsetlovers #fineartphotography #romanticphotoshoot #mariawilkensphotography #gisbornephotographer #moodyportraits #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography #authenticlovemag

This session was a long time coming - weeks of ideas, outfit choices, and every dark romance detail I could dream up. 🖤

We almost cancelled because of the on-and-off rain… and then the sky gifted us the most majestic sunset for sticking to the plan.

One of those sessions where everything just clicked - even better than I imagined.
And seriously, how stunning are these two?!

My dark romance heart couldn’t be happier. 🌙

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#darkromancephotography #couplessession #moodyaesthetic #sunsetlovers #fineartphotography #romanticphotoshoot #mariawilkensphotography #gisbornephotographer #moodyportraits #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography

This session was a long time coming - weeks of ideas, outfit choices, and every dark romance detail I could dream up. 🖤

We almost cancelled because of the on-and-off rain… and then the sky gifted us the most majestic sunset for sticking to the plan.

One of those sessions where everything just clicked - even better than I imagined.
And seriously, how stunning are these two?!

My dark romance heart couldn’t be happier. 🌙

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#darkromancephotography #couplessession #moodyaesthetic #sunsetlovers #fineartphotography #romanticphotoshoot #mariawilkensphotography #gisbornephotographer #moodyportraits #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography

Turning my husband into my book villain might just be my best idea yet...
Who knew the right model was hiding in plain sight this whole time?
A little Alchemised-inspired magic, a touch of blackmail, and voilà - my own dark romance come to life. 🖤
.
.
.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand
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#booktok #bookreel #bookishgirl #darkromance #alchemised #senlinyu #bookinspiredshoot #fantasyphotography #romantasy #bookaesthetic #booklover #darkacademia #villainera #fictionalworlds #booknerd #bookishlove #creativephotography #bookinspiredart #bookishvibes #coupleshoot #bookobsessed #bookaddict #photographerlife #halloween2025 #halloweenphotoshoot #halloweenphotography #halloweencouple

Turning my husband into my book villain might just be my best idea yet...
Who knew the right model was hiding in plain sight this whole time?
A little Alchemised-inspired magic, a touch of blackmail, and voilà - my own dark romance come to life. 🖤
.
.
.

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand
.
.
.

#booktok #bookreel #bookishgirl #darkromance #alchemised #senlinyu #bookinspiredshoot #fantasyphotography #romantasy #bookaesthetic #booklover #darkacademia #villainera #fictionalworlds #booknerd #bookishlove #creativephotography #bookinspiredart #bookishvibes #coupleshoot #bookobsessed #bookaddict #photographerlife #halloween2025 #halloweenphotoshoot #halloweenphotography #halloweencouple

And just like that, summer is almost here - and Christmas is quietly peeking around the corner.

I’m also trying to crawl my way out of a bit of posting paralysis. Somehow, without even noticing, I have no free weekends left until the end of the year - which honestly feels wild to me. I’ve also managed to squeeze in a few more creative artsy sessions (because I’m crazy), and now I just need to figure out how on earth I’m going to juggle it all.

This time of year always feels like it’s moving 10x faster - the light lingers longer, the to-do lists grow, and the outdoors keeps calling your name a little louder each day.

Here’s to the golden chaos ahead - the laughter, the sunlight, the mess, the magic.
Bring it on.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

And just like that, summer is almost here - and Christmas is quietly peeking around the corner.

I’m also trying to crawl my way out of a bit of posting paralysis. Somehow, without even noticing, I have no free weekends left until the end of the year - which honestly feels wild to me. I’ve also managed to squeeze in a few more creative artsy sessions (because I’m crazy), and now I just need to figure out how on earth I’m going to juggle it all.

This time of year always feels like it’s moving 10x faster - the light lingers longer, the to-do lists grow, and the outdoors keeps calling your name a little louder each day.

Here’s to the golden chaos ahead - the laughter, the sunlight, the mess, the magic.
Bring it on.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Who here has been personally victimised by a photographer? 🙋‍♀️
I swear I always have a vision. Then suddenly you’re half-frozen, swatting bugs, stuck in nettles, and I’m just over here saying “trust the process”. Honestly, thank you for putting up with my chaos - I couldn’t do this without you, my clients, my legends. 🤩

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#photographyhumor #photographerlife

Who here has been personally victimised by a photographer? 🙋‍♀️
I swear I always have a vision. Then suddenly you’re half-frozen, swatting bugs, stuck in nettles, and I’m just over here saying “trust the process”. Honestly, thank you for putting up with my chaos - I couldn’t do this without you, my clients, my legends. 🤩

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#photographyhumor #photographerlife

Another proof that photography is 90% light and 10% location.
This was shot in a dusty storage room.
What’s the weirdest place you’ve pulled off some epic shots?

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#portraitphotography #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography #beforeandafter

Another proof that photography is 90% light and 10% location.
This was shot in a dusty storage room.
What’s the weirdest place you’ve pulled off some epic shots?

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

#portraitphotography #newzealandphotographer #cinematicphotography #beforeandafter

Gisborne!
A bed piled high with laughter.
Twinkling lights dancing in the corners.
And that sleepy, joyful chaos that only Christmas morning brings.

This year’s Christmas PJ Minis are all about that feeling - the whole family curled up close, matching jammies and all, with a touch of holiday magic in the air.

What’s included:
-15 minute session
- 10 hand-edited digital images
- Up to 4 people
- $190

It’s short, sweet, and the perfect way to capture your family’s festive sparkle.

DM to book - I’d love to see you there.

—
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Gisborne!
A bed piled high with laughter.
Twinkling lights dancing in the corners.
And that sleepy, joyful chaos that only Christmas morning brings.

This year’s Christmas PJ Minis are all about that feeling - the whole family curled up close, matching jammies and all, with a touch of holiday magic in the air.

What’s included:
-15 minute session
- 10 hand-edited digital images
- Up to 4 people
- $190

It’s short, sweet, and the perfect way to capture your family’s festive sparkle.

DM to book - I’d love to see you there.

—
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Hey, I’m Maria.
I create cinematic portraits that feel like you.

Not the posed, fake-smiling version.
But the real one.
The vulnerable one.
The one who laughs too loud, cries when no one’s looking, chases wild dreams, and dances in the rain.

That’s what I live for - real emotions, real connection, the real you.
Your life is already a movie…
I’m just here to make sure you never forget it. 🎬

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Hey, I’m Maria.
I create cinematic portraits that feel like you.

Not the posed, fake-smiling version.
But the real one.
The vulnerable one.
The one who laughs too loud, cries when no one’s looking, chases wild dreams, and dances in the rain.

That’s what I live for - real emotions, real connection, the real you.
Your life is already a movie…
I’m just here to make sure you never forget it. 🎬

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Spring is here. 🌸
The air feels softer.
Blooms are waking up.
The breeze is warmer.

And with it comes all the little things I’ve been missing - barefoot cuddles, laughter spilling into the evening, and yes… finally those splashes in the water.

I can’t wait for the season ahead, and all the families who’ll step in front of my lens to soak up these moments together.

Here’s to light, love, and a summer that already feels close.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Spring is here. 🌸
The air feels softer.
Blooms are waking up.
The breeze is warmer.

And with it comes all the little things I’ve been missing - barefoot cuddles, laughter spilling into the evening, and yes… finally those splashes in the water.

I can’t wait for the season ahead, and all the families who’ll step in front of my lens to soak up these moments together.

Here’s to light, love, and a summer that already feels close.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

We don’t take family photos because life is perfect.
We take them because it isn’t.

Because kids grow up faster than we expect.
Because parents are always behind the camera instead of in the frame.
Because years from now, these will be the pictures you’ll actually look back on and say, “that was us.”

Don’t wait for the perfect moment - it doesn’t exist.
Just start creating the ones you’ll want to remember.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

We don’t take family photos because life is perfect.
We take them because it isn’t.

Because kids grow up faster than we expect.
Because parents are always behind the camera instead of in the frame.
Because years from now, these will be the pictures you’ll actually look back on and say, “that was us.”

Don’t wait for the perfect moment - it doesn’t exist.
Just start creating the ones you’ll want to remember.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

There’s something about photographing teenagers with their parents.

They’re old enough to roll their eyes - but still lean in for a hug.
They walk a little ahead now - but still glance back to see if you’re watching.

It’s proof that growing up doesn’t mean growing away.

We treasure the first years with cameras always in hand - yet these years are just as fleeting.
Different, yes. But just as beautiful.

Because childhood never really disappears -
it just grows taller, laughs louder, and holds a new space right next to yours.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

There’s something about photographing teenagers with their parents.

They’re old enough to roll their eyes - but still lean in for a hug.
They walk a little ahead now - but still glance back to see if you’re watching.

It’s proof that growing up doesn’t mean growing away.

We treasure the first years with cameras always in hand - yet these years are just as fleeting.
Different, yes. But just as beautiful.

Because childhood never really disappears -
it just grows taller, laughs louder, and holds a new space right next to yours.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The best of both worlds - photographs to hold onto forever, short films to feel it all again.

I’ve had a few questions lately about video-only sessions, and I’m so touched that the little films have been so enjoyed. But for now, I offer them only as an add-on to photography, because at my core, I am - and always will be - a photographer first.

And images like these are a reason why. 🖤

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The best of both worlds - photographs to hold onto forever, short films to feel it all again.

I’ve had a few questions lately about video-only sessions, and I’m so touched that the little films have been so enjoyed. But for now, I offer them only as an add-on to photography, because at my core, I am - and always will be - a photographer first.

And images like these are a reason why. 🖤

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Your maternity session, but a movie...

A golden sunset spilling over the hills.
The first freesias of winter, pushing through the chill.
And yes… a wind sharp enough to steal your breath.

We paused between frames, letting jackets warm frozen fingers, and in those quiet moments I felt it again -
how beauty often asks something of us.
Patience. Courage. The willingness to lean into discomfort for something worth remembering.

The result?
A story told in gold and bloom.
A chapter they’ll hold forever…

....

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Your maternity session, but a movie...

A golden sunset spilling over the hills.
The first freesias of winter, pushing through the chill.
And yes… a wind sharp enough to steal your breath.

We paused between frames, letting jackets warm frozen fingers, and in those quiet moments I felt it again -
how beauty often asks something of us.
Patience. Courage. The willingness to lean into discomfort for something worth remembering.

The result?
A story told in gold and bloom.
A chapter they’ll hold forever…

....

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

This year feels different.
A year of deep transformation - the kind that reshapes you quietly from the inside out.

This glowing mama and her bump, bathed in golden light, reminded me how creation takes time. How becoming - in any form - asks for patience, trust, and space to grow.

I’m finding myself again through the work I love.
And that… that is the greatest treasure.

As usual, I’m bursting with ideas.
Projects, dreams, half-formed thoughts scribbled in notebooks and voice memos.
Some will bloom. Some will shift. Some will gently fall away.
But each piece feels like a quiet step ahead.

Here’s to the becoming ✨
And to the stories we get to tell along the way.

....

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

This year feels different.
A year of deep transformation - the kind that reshapes you quietly from the inside out.

This glowing mama and her bump, bathed in golden light, reminded me how creation takes time. How becoming - in any form - asks for patience, trust, and space to grow.

I’m finding myself again through the work I love.
And that… that is the greatest treasure.

As usual, I’m bursting with ideas.
Projects, dreams, half-formed thoughts scribbled in notebooks and voice memos.
Some will bloom. Some will shift. Some will gently fall away.
But each piece feels like a quiet step ahead.

Here’s to the becoming ✨
And to the stories we get to tell along the way.

....

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The wind softens.
The light leans in.
Time slows down.

And there she was -
a glowing mama
standing in all her quiet power,
bathed in gold,
carrying the beginning of everything.

We didn’t rush.
We let the light guide us,
the ocean breathe with us.

This session felt enchanted.
A short film to remember
how it all felt before everything changed.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The wind softens.
The light leans in.
Time slows down.

And there she was -
a glowing mama
standing in all her quiet power,
bathed in gold,
carrying the beginning of everything.

We didn’t rush.
We let the light guide us,
the ocean breathe with us.

This session felt enchanted.
A short film to remember
how it all felt before everything changed.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

It’s time we talk.
You might’ve noticed a shift in my work lately.

So here’s the truth - I’m changing.
And with a fair bit of freaking out, if we’re being honest.

This new direction is scary.
Because it matters. Because it feels right.

I’ve spent years capturing beauty, connection, love -
but lately, I’ve found myself craving something deeper.
Something less perfect and more felt.

There’s no real English term for this genre yet.
They call it “lifestyle photography” - but that’s not quite it.
This is emotion-led, soul-filled, moment-first photography.
Not just what it looks like.
But what it feels like.

Less polish. More truth.
Less posing. More presence.
I’ll guide you gently - but mostly,
I want you to feel your photos.

This new chapter also brings with it short films - tiny, moving glimpses of your real life
that I’ve fallen head over heels for
and can’t wait to offer you soon.

This rebrand wasn’t just about a new name.
It’s about owning the work that feels most true to me.
And I’m so deeply grateful
to everyone who’s come along for the ride.

Here’s to the whirlwind ahead.
I hope it moves you, too.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

It’s time we talk.
You might’ve noticed a shift in my work lately.

So here’s the truth - I’m changing.
And with a fair bit of freaking out, if we’re being honest.

This new direction is scary.
Because it matters. Because it feels right.

I’ve spent years capturing beauty, connection, love -
but lately, I’ve found myself craving something deeper.
Something less perfect and more felt.

There’s no real English term for this genre yet.
They call it “lifestyle photography” - but that’s not quite it.
This is emotion-led, soul-filled, moment-first photography.
Not just what it looks like.
But what it feels like.

Less polish. More truth.
Less posing. More presence.
I’ll guide you gently - but mostly,
I want you to feel your photos.

This new chapter also brings with it short films - tiny, moving glimpses of your real life
that I’ve fallen head over heels for
and can’t wait to offer you soon.

This rebrand wasn’t just about a new name.
It’s about owning the work that feels most true to me.
And I’m so deeply grateful
to everyone who’s come along for the ride.

Here’s to the whirlwind ahead.
I hope it moves you, too.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

If this isn’t everyday magic, I don’t know what is.
Sun on our skin, laughter in the wind,
wooden planes soaring through golden light.
We picked oranges straight from the tree,
hid behind giant banana leaves,
and ran until our legs gave out and our hearts were full.
⁠
One of my most favourite families.
One of those sessions I’ll never forget.
⁠
This is what childhood feels like -
free, wild, and held close in mama’s arms.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

If this isn’t everyday magic, I don’t know what is.
Sun on our skin, laughter in the wind,
wooden planes soaring through golden light.
We picked oranges straight from the tree,
hid behind giant banana leaves,
and ran until our legs gave out and our hearts were full.
⁠
One of my most favourite families.
One of those sessions I’ll never forget.
⁠
This is what childhood feels like -
free, wild, and held close in mama’s arms.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

No two family sessions are the same -
some are wild, some tender, most a bit of both.
But the magic?
It shows up when you stop trying to get it just right.

When you’re wrapped up in each other,
when the chaos is real and the laughs are louder,
that’s when it all clicks.

I’m not here to pose you into someone else’s picture -
I’m here to catch your kind of beautiful.
The way you hold them,
the way they know how to make you smile with just a look.

That’s the good stuff.
That’s what lasts.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

No two family sessions are the same -
some are wild, some tender, most a bit of both.
But the magic?
It shows up when you stop trying to get it just right.

When you’re wrapped up in each other,
when the chaos is real and the laughs are louder,
that’s when it all clicks.

I’m not here to pose you into someone else’s picture -
I’m here to catch your kind of beautiful.
The way you hold them,
the way they know how to make you smile with just a look.

That’s the good stuff.
That’s what lasts.

...

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

You left your first home behind -
the walls, the rhythms, the way the sun fell through the windows.
Packed up memories and recipes,
accents and lullabies,
and planted them gently in new soil.

And here you are now -
feet in the sand, arms around each other,
making something new.
A home made not of bricks or borders,
but of the people who hold your hand when everything else changes.

I know that feeling.
Of starting over,
of missing what was,
while growing into what is.

Home isn’t a place.
It’s this.
Right here.
And I’m so honoured to capture it.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

You left your first home behind -
the walls, the rhythms, the way the sun fell through the windows.
Packed up memories and recipes,
accents and lullabies,
and planted them gently in new soil.

And here you are now -
feet in the sand, arms around each other,
making something new.
A home made not of bricks or borders,
but of the people who hold your hand when everything else changes.

I know that feeling.
Of starting over,
of missing what was,
while growing into what is.

Home isn’t a place.
It’s this.
Right here.
And I’m so honoured to capture it.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The second baby arrives quietly,
into a life already full.
A home already humming with love,
a sibling waiting with wide eyes and wonder.

And somehow -
your heart stretches again.
Softly, fully.
No drama, no rush.
Just this quiet unfolding
of something deeply familiar,
and entirely new.

These early days deserve to be held.
Not for how perfect they look,
but for how much they mean.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

The second baby arrives quietly,
into a life already full.
A home already humming with love,
a sibling waiting with wide eyes and wonder.

And somehow -
your heart stretches again.
Softly, fully.
No drama, no rush.
Just this quiet unfolding
of something deeply familiar,
and entirely new.

These early days deserve to be held.
Not for how perfect they look,
but for how much they mean.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Your family is a living, breathing masterpiece.
Full of motion, full of feeling.
The way your child reaches for your hand without looking.
The way your laughter overlaps like music.
The way love lives in the in‑between moments - quiet, wild, unseen.

Your everyday…
the chaos, the closeness, the comfort -
that’s my greatest inspiration.

You don’t need to be anything other than what you already are.
Messy, beautiful, tangled in each other.
That’s what makes it art.
That’s what makes it you.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Your family is a living, breathing masterpiece.
Full of motion, full of feeling.
The way your child reaches for your hand without looking.
The way your laughter overlaps like music.
The way love lives in the in‑between moments - quiet, wild, unseen.

Your everyday…
the chaos, the closeness, the comfort -
that’s my greatest inspiration.

You don’t need to be anything other than what you already are.
Messy, beautiful, tangled in each other.
That’s what makes it art.
That’s what makes it you.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Something aches in me when I photograph return families.
The ones I’ve seen with babies on hips - now chasing bold, independent little humans.
The ones who once held hands to cross the street - now walk a few paces ahead, full of opinions and ideas and spark.
Family dynamics shift.
The chaos changes shape.
And moments that once felt ordinary...
suddenly become everything.

These are the days you’ll miss without even realising they passed.
The in-between glances, the quiet cuddles, the missing teeth and wild giggles.

Life doesn’t wait.
Let’s capture what matters before it becomes memory.
These - right here - are the days to remember.

….
BOND. ILLUMINATE. FEEL.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Something aches in me when I photograph return families.
The ones I’ve seen with babies on hips - now chasing bold, independent little humans.
The ones who once held hands to cross the street - now walk a few paces ahead, full of opinions and ideas and spark.
Family dynamics shift.
The chaos changes shape.
And moments that once felt ordinary...
suddenly become everything.

These are the days you’ll miss without even realising they passed.
The in-between glances, the quiet cuddles, the missing teeth and wild giggles.

Life doesn’t wait.
Let’s capture what matters before it becomes memory.
These - right here - are the days to remember.

….
BOND. ILLUMINATE. FEEL.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

You raised your babies.
You built a home.
You poured your love into your family - day after day, year after year.

And now?
It’s just the two of you again.
But this time, with a lifetime of love behind every glance and touch.

This session wasn’t about starting something new.
It was about honouring the now -
where love has deepened, softened, strengthened.

Their love? Wildly alive.
And honestly, it was an honour to capture.

So if your babies are grown and flown…
maybe it’s your turn.
Just the two of you - reconnecting, remembering, celebrating.

Because this chapter?
It’s every bit as beautiful as the beginning.

…
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

You raised your babies.
You built a home.
You poured your love into your family - day after day, year after year.

And now?
It’s just the two of you again.
But this time, with a lifetime of love behind every glance and touch.

This session wasn’t about starting something new.
It was about honouring the now -
where love has deepened, softened, strengthened.

Their love? Wildly alive.
And honestly, it was an honour to capture.

So if your babies are grown and flown…
maybe it’s your turn.
Just the two of you - reconnecting, remembering, celebrating.

Because this chapter?
It’s every bit as beautiful as the beginning.

…
Bond. Illuminate. Feel.
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne, New Zealand

Not every moment shouts.
Some barely whisper.
But they’re the ones that stay.

The quiet mornings.
The soft chatter over afternoon walk.
The way their hair still smells like sleep.

No grand occasion. No polished perfection.
Just the rhythm of your real, beautiful life.

This is the story worth telling -
the ordinary that shaped everything.
And one day, it’ll mean everything to remember it like this.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.

Maria Wilkens Photography
Family. Motherhood. Love • Gisborne, New Zealand

Not every moment shouts.
Some barely whisper.
But they’re the ones that stay.

The quiet mornings.
The soft chatter over afternoon walk.
The way their hair still smells like sleep.

No grand occasion. No polished perfection.
Just the rhythm of your real, beautiful life.

This is the story worth telling -
the ordinary that shaped everything.
And one day, it’ll mean everything to remember it like this.

…

Bond. Illuminate. Feel.

Maria Wilkens Photography
Family. Motherhood. Love • Gisborne, New Zealand

Quiet, but full.
You don’t notice this moment slipping by
until it’s already gone.

No milestones.
No big events.
Just them,
just you,
just this day -
so deeply yours.

Because now?
Now is everything.

—
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne family photographer
Families. Motherhood. Love.

Quiet, but full.
You don’t notice this moment slipping by
until it’s already gone.

No milestones.
No big events.
Just them,
just you,
just this day -
so deeply yours.

Because now?
Now is everything.

—
Maria Wilkens Photography
Gisborne family photographer
Families. Motherhood. Love.

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