Photography & Video for Places, People & Brands
I’m a commercial photographer and videographer based in Wanaka, specialising in visual storytelling for places, people, and brands.
I capture beautiful, design-led spaces — from boutique Airbnbs and high-end homes to architectural and commercial interiors — for homeowners, property managers, developers, and businesses across Wanaka and Queenstown.
I also work closely with local businesses and individuals to create clean, intentional photo and video content that showcases who they are and what they do — for websites, social media, and marketing campaigns.
Professional Photography & Videography Services
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Architectural Photography
Photography that showcases architectural form, texture, and light. I work with architects, designers, and builders to create high-quality images for marketing, awards and portfolios.
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Luxury Accomodation & Airbnb Photography
From luxury holiday homes to boutique Airbnbs, I create inviting, editorial-style photos and cinematic video tours that help homes stand apart from the competition.
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Commercial & Brand Photography
Imagery tailored for businesses and brands. These shoots are designed to tell your story visually, supporting marketing campaigns, websites, and social media with authentic, high-quality visuals.
Advertising & Brand Photography →
Lifestyle Photography
Product Photography
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Headshots & Portraits
Natural, professional portraits for individuals and teams. Whether on location, in-studio or at your workplace, I keep the process relaxed - capturing images that feel genuine and on-brand.
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Videography
From interviews to short-form reels to architectural walkthroughs, I create high-quality video content that tells your brand’s story with impact.
Architectural Video Tours
Interviews & Brand Videos
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Real Estate Photography
Professional real estate photography and video tours that highlight space, light, and flow - helping properties present at their best.
“I can’t say enough about how professional Sampford is and the quality of work the he provides. He has a very good eye for detail! We were so pleased with his work that we will continue to use him in the future.”
CabineTree Wanaka
“From start to finish, the communication and experience was wonderful with Sam! The video exceeded our expectations and we will absolutely recommend and use Sam again.”
Stonewood Homes Wanaka
About Me
Hi! My name is Sampford - Sam for short.
I’m a Wanaka-based photographer and videographer with over a decade of experience in photographing people, products and places.
I started my business in Auckland in 2012, and in 2021 I made the move down to the South Island to live in Wanaka, where I’ve now established my business.
I have a rare eye condition called Keratoconus, which distorts my eyesight and lends to my unique and minimalistic photographic style (or I like to think it does, at least).
I’m available for assignments of all sizes throughout Wanaka, Queenstown and nationwide. Get in touch today and let’s have a chat about your next shoot!
Awards
REFOCUS AWARDS 2023
Honorable Mention - Architecture
17th BLACK & WHITE SPIDER AWARDS
Honourable Mention - Abstract
ASIA PACIFIC PHOTO AWARDS 2022
7x Highly Commended - Advertising & Editorial
ASIA PACIFIC PHOTO AWARDS 2021
Highly Commended - Commercial & Landscape
16th BLACK & WHITE SPIDER AWARDS
Honourable Mention - Abstract
NZIPP IRIS AWARDS 2020
Bronze (2) - Commercial
14th BLACK & WHITE SPIDER AWARDS
Honourable Mention (2) - Architectural
NZIPP IRIS AWARDS 2019
Silver with Distinction – Travel
BEST OF HOUZZ 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
Winner – Design Photography
NZIPP IRIS AWARDS 2018
Bronze (2) – Landscape, Commercial
NZIPP IRIS AWARDS 2017
Bronze – Landscape
“Sam was a pleasure to work with. From setting up the shoot, to choosing our preferred images from the contact sheets, and then on to receiving the final photos, Sam was friendly and his processes were straightforward. We are delighted with the results!”
Wanaka Watersports Facility
“We hired Sampford to take some portfolio and team shots of our staff here in the office. Sampford and his assistant were incredibly professional and made everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. Sampford's quality and attention to detail keep us coming back for more!”
Bayleys Wanaka
FAQs
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I focus on commercial photography - anything that helps you and your business with marketing. I generally break it down into people, products and places - think headshots, product photos, branding photos and interior shots. Often the shoots that I do involve a combination of all three of these categories.
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I work with a range of businesses and individuals - really anyone that needs marketing or portfolio content. From headshot photoshoots of creatives and project shoots for small businesses right through to multi-day inter-city shoots for PR firms, agencies and international brands.
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Absolutely! I’ve spent my entire career shooting both stills and video for a wide range of clients, and often combine the two during one shoot. By working with a photographer that specialises in both stills and motion, you can rest assured that all of your content will be high-quality and consistent (and you won’t have to worry about organising multiple shoots with different people!).
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Definitely - I often travel throughout Otago and nationwide for shoots. I’m more than happy to discuss travelling for a shoot - just get in touch and let me know where you’re based and I’ll work with you to sort out the logistics.
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Just get in touch using my contact form at the bottom of this page - or shoot me an email at sam@sampfordcathie.com!
Send me over a brief of what you’re looking for, including what kind of content you’re after - photos, a video, or both - and some potential dates that work for you. I’ll then get back to you with my pricing and availability and we can go from there!
Notable Clients
AIRBNB LUXE
CURATED WANAKA
BAYVIEW CONSTRUCTION
SIGNATURE HOMES
SOTHEBYS
LUXURY STAYS QUEENSTOWN
SCENTRE GROUP
MAKE-A-WISH
WESTFIELD
CABINETREE
TRIDENT HOMES
NATURAL HABITATS
KIWI PROPERTY GROUP
BAYLEYS REALTY GROUP
CEQUENT PROJECTS
MIKE GREER HOMES
GROUND UP BREWING
STONEWOOD HOMES
PATERSONS
ARCHIPRO
Get in Touch
Have a project in need of some photos or videos? Fill out the form with your brief, and I’ll be in touch with some more details, pricing and next steps.
If you’re based in Wanaka/Queenstown I’m always available for an in-person chat over a coffee, too.
Let me know as much detail as possible - including potential dates for shooting, shot-lists, stylistic briefs, you name it. I’ll then get back to you within one business day with more info!