Photography has always played a big part in the life of New Plymouth photographer Philippa Guthrie known as Pip.
Her father formed Charter and Guthrie with Roy Charters just after the war.
“I think in its hey-day in 1964 to the early 80’s there was about 12 or 13 people working for them. They were the first to get a colour paper processor in NZ so that was an amazing evolution.
“When your parents have got a business you just all help. As kids we learnt to photograph and print. We used to glaze the photos and number them. We did the delivery runs, picking up the films from the Chemists. We all had great holiday and after school jobs, which was very social and great pocket money.
“My brother and I were given a camera and we would do the receptions for the weddings. You shot everybody at the reception in those days at the tables. I see albums now that people bring out from 1960’s and 70’s, these little red ones. Actually my partner’s parents have one. It makes you laugh to see them still in pristine condition. They are a real piece of history cared for with such love, pride and memory.”