Local professional photographers Helenjoy (Wilkin) and Adam Buckle scooped up 19 awards between them at the prestigious New Zealand Iris Awards held in Wellington last month.
The Inglewood pair have a huge passion for photography. Adam has earned a Fellow and Helen a Masters with the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photographers. They have also earned the very prestigious title of Fellow of the Photographic Society of New Zealand. Only four people in Taranaki have this title.
Adam operates a canvas and fine art printing business predominantly selling landscapes through various galleries around Taranaki.
“Awards for me is not just a personal journey of growth, the key here is that my images are of a consistent standard,” said Adam.
Helen operates her business Helenjoy Photography in Inglewood and focuses on fine art maternity, babies and small intimate family groups as well as weddings.
“I haven’t entered the awards for the last five years to focus on growing my business. I set myself some new personal goals and then Adam inspired me to enter again. Although I am already accredited, qualified and a proven and trusted professional photographer it’s good to get another independent confirmation that I am constantly consistent at the high end of my profession.
Achieving an award for every photo she entered was confirmation that her every day work is at an award winning level.
“I was happy to see that the client images I submitted were all awarded. It’s great to know I give my clients the best photographic products I can and that they in turn can have confidence in me. It’s always an honour and privilege when clients trust me to capture their precious memories and buy beautiful wall art from me.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for all their support as without them I wouldn’t be able to do what I do.”
“I also need to thank Adam for printing all of the award images for me and his advice. We enjoy sharing our expertise as we support and advise each other.”
Helen’s favourite part of her job is creating intimate shots with mum, dad and baby. She also loves seeing a fine art maternity session come together with the styling, back drops, the art process and then of course the matting and printing.
“I also really love doing baby’s first year. There’s something about babies, they are challenging however when they are sleepy they are just so pliable to work with. They are just so cute and adorable and smell so delicious.
“My heart just melts when I see the images come together. I love my job. It’s so rewarding when I see my clients get emotional when they view their images. I know I have touched their hearts. Priceless!”
You can view their photography at www.helenjoyphotography.com/awards or www.facebook/adambuckle-Visions of Taranaki