Hi, I'm Dasha. I tell love stories in one of the most beautiful places on Earth
Your photographer, guide, and trusted partner for planning your perfect wedding, elopement, engagement, or proposal shoot in New Zealand
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The Art of Seeing the Moment
My work is about preserving your genuine feelings. It is the art of noticing to espy how the morning light plays on the details of your dress. Feeling the excitement before your first look and sensing the intimacy of your promises to each other, and being able to translate these details into a picture. A wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions and events. My role is to be your calm anchor amidst the chaos. I am here not just to capture how your day looked, but to preserve how it felt. So that years from now, when you look at these photos, you feel that moment all over again
From Passion to Profession
My photography journey has been as unique as the stories I capture. Originally from Belarus, I found both my home and my husband here in New Zealand. We chose to elope, so I truly understand both the joy and the challenges of planning such an intimate celebration
Back then, Belarus 2019
Present, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand 2025
This personal experience has become the heart of my approach. Over the past 3 years, more than 80 couples have trusted me to tell their stories. I’ve learned that my true role is to create a space where you feel completely at ease, knowing everything is taken care of, because the most beautiful photos happen when you forget the camera is even there
Cassy & Levy
Ashley & Brandon
Samanta & Jordan
Bridgette & Ale
Cassy & Levy
Ashley & Brandon
Samanta & Jordan
Bridgette & Ale
Our Partnership
Your Guide to a Stress-Free Day
I know that planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful, filled with anxiety and uncertainty. That’s why my work with you begins long before the big day.
Our first video call is mainly about getting to know each other. We talk not just about your expectations but more importantly, about your fears. It's just as vital to me that we're clearly on the same page from the start.
From there, we dive into planning together. I help create a comfortable, custom timeline for the day based on your preferences, locations, and other details. We discuss everything, from travel between locations to the family portrait list. I take on the organisational work so you can relax. By your wedding day, I am no longer just a hired vendor. I am a friendly face and a reliable partner who knows your story and whom you trust entirely
My Work Approach
I Believe in the Perfect Balance Between Candid Storytelling and Polished Aesthetics
Thanks to our detailed planning, on your wedding day I can focus entirely on creativity.
For 80% of the time, I work as your discreet documentarian. I blend into the background, allowing events to unfold naturally. My goal is to capture the genuine laughter of your guests, their unexpected surprises, the fleeting tears of joy and happiness, and the tight hugs. These are the moments that cannot be staged.
For the other 20% of the time, I act as a gentle art director. I'll guide you and your guests with relaxed, natural posing to make sure you love your portraits. I also pay close attention to details like your décor, florals, and overall aesthetic, because I know how much thought and care you’ve put into creating them
More Than a Photographer
Planning a photoshoot for your event in New Zealand, especially from overseas, calls for local insight. I know the hidden gems and insider tips, and I’m ready to share them with you. I take on the organisational work so you can enjoy every moment
Planning and Logistics
I will help you create a convenient timeline, taking into account the best lighting conditions for shooting in specific locations and the travel time between them
Secret Spots
I know not only the popular spots but also secluded locations for breathtaking photos
Vendor Recommendations
I rely on a team of trusted local experts, including stylists, videographers, florists, and celebrants whom I fully trust and respect
My expertise extends beyond photography to include the complete planning and coordination for a wide variety of love stories:
Engagement Photography
Let's tell the beginning of your story, capturing the excitement that builds before the wedding day. It's the perfect opportunity to create stylish and relaxed portraits without the time pressures of the wedding itself
Wedding Photography
I'll be your calm anchor in the whirlwind of your wedding day. Whether it's a classic winery reception or a large celebration, I capture not just the style, but your authentic emotions
Elopement Photography
Drawing from my own experience, I'll help you plan the perfect adventure for two, from a secluded location to a helicopter flight, creating a space where you can completely relax
Proposal Photography
I'll help you plan and discreetly document one of those moments that can't be staged. You can fully immerse yourself in the emotion, knowing that the surprise will be captured to be remembered forever
More Than a Photographer
Planning a photoshoot for your event in New Zealand, especially from overseas, calls for local insight. I know the hidden gems and insider tips, and I’m ready to share them with you. I take on the organisational work so you can enjoy every moment
Planning and Logistics
I will help you create a convenient timeline, taking into account the best lighting conditions for shooting in specific locations and the travel time between them
Secret Spots
I know not only the popular spots but also secluded locations for breathtaking photos
Vendor Recommendations
I rely on a team of trusted local experts, including stylists, videographers, florists, and celebrants whom I fully trust and respect
My expertise extends beyond photography to include the complete planning and coordination for a wide variety of love stories:
Engagement Photography
Let's tell the beginning of your story, capturing the excitement that builds before the wedding day. It's the perfect opportunity to create stylish and relaxed portraits without the time pressures of the wedding itself
Wedding Photography
I'll be your calm anchor in the whirlwind of your wedding day. Whether it's a classic winery reception or a large celebration, I capture not just the style, but your authentic emotions
Elopement Photography
Drawing from my own experience, I'll help you plan the perfect adventure for two, from a secluded location to a helicopter flight, creating a space where you can completely relax
Proposal Photography
I'll help you plan and discreetly document one of those moments that can't be staged. You can fully immerse yourself in the emotion, knowing that the surprise will be captured to be remembered forever
Engagement Photography
Let's tell the beginning of your story, capturing the excitement that builds before the wedding day. It's the perfect opportunity to create stylish and relaxed portraits without the time pressures of the wedding itself
Wedding Photography
I'll be your calm anchor in the whirlwind of your wedding day. Whether it's a classic winery reception or a large celebration, I capture not just the style, but your authentic emotions
Elopement Photography
Drawing from my own experience, I'll help you plan the perfect adventure for two, from a secluded location to a helicopter flight, creating a space where you can completely relax
Proposal Photography
I'll help you plan and discreetly document one of those moments that can't be staged. You can fully immerse yourself in the emotion, knowing that the surprise will be captured to be remembered forever
Local Knowledge and a Good Plan Are Key. But It's Not Everything
My help with planning your photo session makes preparing for your shoot in New Zealand easy and enjoyable. But true peace of mind comes when you are confident that every little detail has been considered for any 'what if' scenario. Discover how I offer this reassurance, from backup cameras to a clear and transparent contract
Why Choose MeLet's Be Friends
Friends know all sorts of things about each other. I'll go first
My photography journey was a complete accident
When I was 15, I begged my dad for a camera just to compete with a classmate. The irony is she never became a photographer, but I did. Sometimes a little competition helps you find your true calling
I have a degree in marketing
So my systematic approach to planning and attention to detail has a solid foundation
I love animals
I have a tattoo in memory of my beloved Chow Chow, with whom I grew up. Now I'm patiently waiting for my future Akita Inu. But things with plants are complicated. I couldn't even keep a cactus alive
My perfect snack while watching Netflix is sliced tomatoes with sour cream and a sprinkle of salt
A classic!
My ideal weekend involves reading a good book and drawing, but a trip to the sauna is a must
My all-time favourite meal is a bagel with salmon, avocado, and an egg
And of course, a flat white with oat milk is essential
Your Story Deserves to Be Told
The best way to see if we are a good fit is to have a chat. I offer a free, no-obligation video consultation. Let’s explore your vision together. I’ll guide you through every question, so we can craft a photoshoot that feels calm and unforgettable.
Check My Availability
Check my availability for your date online and take the first step towards getting to know each other