Real people.

Wild places.

I'm always looking for outdoorsy faces to feature in adventure shoots around New Zealand. No experience needed — just a love of being outside.

Kia ora, I'm Maki

I'm an outdoor and adventure photographer & videographer based in Tauranga, shooting for tourism and outdoor brands across New Zealand.

My work is all about real moments in big landscapes! People hiking, climbing, exploring and actually enjoying being out there.

I'm building a small crew of people I can call on when the conditions line up… which, out here, is often at short notice, and not always on the weekends!

A taste of the work

Here's the kind of shoot you'd be part of:

What it's actually like

No experience needed. The shoots are mostly just going your thing! With maybe an outfit change. Or two. And some light direction where needed!

It's natural, not posed. Think walking, laughing, taking in the view, or working hard for the view. I'm capturing the real experiences more than "model" poses.

You'll always know the plan. Where we're going, how long, how much walking - all sorted before we head out.

Your comfort comes first. If something doesn't feel right on the day, we change it. Simple as that.

Paid, professional, above board

Compensation. Most shoots are paid for your time. A few are experience-based (think a catered guided walk you'd normally pay good money for), and I'm always upfront about which is which before you commit.

A model release, always. You'll get a clear, written release so you know exactly how your images can be used, and for how long.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I shoot photos and videos for tourism operators, outdoor gear brands, accommodation near outdoor areas, private walks - anything outdoorsy!

  • Not at all. Plenty of the people I shoot are complete first-timers! It is ideal if you normally like the camera (do you normally post and share photos of yourself on social media?) and don’t get flustered.

  • Most shoots are paid for your time. Some are experience-based, and I'll always tell you which upfront.

  • Nope, I want a real range of people, looks and ages (18+ only, just keeps the paperwork simple). I do ask a few questions like your gender, age range, activity preferences, etc so I contact you for the right shoots only

  • Depends on the shoot. Some are easy walks; some are big days like the Tongariro Crossing!

  • You'll always know before you agree, and it's all set out in the model release. Generally, they’ll be used in websites, social media and potentially in advertising for social media.

  • This list is for my regular, smaller shoots. When a larger production or campaign comes up, I put out a specific model call for it — with its own brief, terms, usage and rates, all agreed separately. Being on the list means you'll hear about those first, but you'll always sign off on the full terms before anything goes ahead.

Keen? Let's go.

Fill in the quick form — about 3 minutes — and I'll be in touch when a shoot lines up with your availability

Questions first?

Email maki@echophotography.co.nz

or find me on Instagram @makioutdoors