Together - your journey continues
Discover Auckland's Family Photographer
The People Who Make Your World
Families are built through a thousand ordinary moments. The laughter, the familiar embraces, the personalities, the connections and the quiet ways we belong to one another. As life moves forward, these are the things that become extraordinary.
At MANAWA Studio on Auckland's North Shore, family photography is about preserving those connections with honesty, warmth and artistry. From young families to generations gathered together, every experience is thoughtfully guided and never rushed. We create portraits that reflect the people you love, the relationships you share and the story that belongs to your family alone. Artwork that becomes part of your home, and eventually, your family's history.
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I’m discovering Manawa
I’d love to learn more about the experience,
what’s included and what to expect
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family Gallery
"Families are always becoming.
Every chapter deserves to be remembered."
emma williams
planning ahead
I've never been to a professional studio, what if we are nervous?
There's no need to worry— throughout your family session I'll guide you every step of the way. Sessions last up to 2 hours, so there's plenty of time to relax, settle in, and enjoy the experience. Nothing is rushed, and my aim is to make you feel completely at ease.
Arriving at the studio
When you arrive at the property their are clear sign posts for parking and the studio entrance. You will hear frogs, don't worry thats my sign that you have arrived! just relax and start taking in the experience your about to embark on.
How many outfits can we bring to the session?
Feel free to bring a selection of outfits with you. I also have a thoughtfully curated collection of clothing and accessories available in the studio. Together, we'll explore the options and create a look that beautifully reflects your family's story.
Can the whole family be part of the session, or is it just for baby?
Absolutely — parents, siblings, and whānau are always warmly welcome to be part of the images too.
products - digital, wall art and albums
All of our wall art and albums are 100% pure New Zealand made, crafted to the highest quality and built to last a lifetime.
When your images are ready to view or download, this is the perfect time to place your order for any physical products you would love to have. You won't need to make any decisions on the day — simply enjoy your session and choose afterwards when you can see your beautiful images in full.
Throughout your session, samples of our wall art and albums will be available for you to view and touch, so you can get a real feel for the exceptional quality before you order.
What do we wear for family images?
I'd recommend staying with neutral tones or soft pastels that complement each other rather than clash — think creams, soft blues, blush, sage, and warm neutrals. Try to avoid clothing with big logos, slogans, or busy patterns, as these tend to distract from the real focus. You don't need to match exactly — a coordinated palette across the family looks far more natural and timeless than everyone wearing identical outfits.
If you'd like a hand putting outfits together beforehand, just reply and I'm happy to help you plan it.
"Emma is the most lovely, kind and friendly photographer. She has beautifully captured my family throughout the years. You couldn't ask for a more talented photographer, i bought every single image and have beautiful art work throughout our home. I Highly recommend her to everyone."
Everything you need to know
Your Family Session at MANAWA
Is there somewhere to change during the session?
Yes — the studio has a personal fully equipped changing and vanity area.
How long does a family session take?
Sessions typically run up to 2 hours, with plenty of time built in for photographing everyone and outfit changes.
Will my images be shared online or on social media?
Your privacy, and your children's, matters to me. I'll never share or post your images publicly without your permission first — if you're comfortable with a few being shared, we can chat about that together, but the choice is always entirely yours.
What happens if we need to reschedule, or someone's unwell on the day?
Life with little ones is unpredictable, and I completely understand that. If anyone in your family is unwell or something comes up, just let me know as early as you can and we'll find another time that works — no stress, no penalty.
How far in advance should we book?
Because I keep my bookings deliberately limited each week, so every family gets proper time and attention, dates fill up a month ahead. If you have a date in mind — a birthday, a visit from family, a particular season — it's worth reaching out sooner rather than later.
Can we get copies to share with grandparents or family overseas?
Yes — once you purchase your images, you'll receive your own personal online gallery, where you can download your photos and share them directly with family near or far, not just keep them to yourself.
Book your family session
Choose the way you want to book
Some families prefer to book their session first and choose their artwork afterwards. Others like to pre-book everything upfront, with the option to spread the cost. Either way, the choice is yours.
Reserve now for Experiences after June 2027
OPTION 1
Single Family
Experience & Viewing
- up to 2 hour professional family session
- Full use of our extensive wardrobe, props and outfits.
- Relaxed, warm and completely private studio
- Fully equipped changing area with vanity area
- Guidance and posing throughout to make you feel completely at ease for family images.
- Images previewed throughout your session.
- Refreshments and snacks available.
- Personal viewing appointment arranged at your session and ready within 7 - 14 days
- Samples of wall art and albums available to view and touch on the day.
- All wall art and albums are 100% pure New Zealand made
$199
OPTION 2
Manawa Signature Family Experience
Everything included in the Single Session, plus:
All of your digital images included (30 -40)
4 x small Chromalux or framed print
4 x matching accordion albums
$250 product credit to spend on wall art or album
Digital images available for download within 14 days from your personal secure online profile
A complete, lasting memory of this beautiful chapter of your life
Available on 0% in house finance from $50/week with a $400 deposit. Use code FAMILYPLAN at checkout. (Please see MANAWA collection Plans)
$1800
1000+
NEWBORNS
Over 15 years experience in handling newborns.
FREE
RESCHEDULE
Reserve your session up to 1 year in advance with free rescheduling
MONTHLY
PAYMENTS
From $50/week, interest free, in-house finance
FULLY
TRAINED
Newborn safety and
First Aid qualified.
Fully Insured
FREE
DELIVERY
Wall art and albums shipped throughout New Zealand
Continue Exploring...
Discover helpful articles, inspiration and expert guidance from the MANAWA Journal, thoughtfully created to support you through every chapter of your family's story.
