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The Heart Behind the Lens!

Tara Jolliffe Wedding & Event Photographer Manawatu

That would be me, Tara.

 

I've been photographing weddings for over 14 years. My first wedding was just three weeks after my third baby was born! A friend from church held my newborn while I worked in between feeding. I dove straight into the world of wedding photography—and I was hooked. I loved everything about it: the energy of the day, capturing beautiful moments, connecting with people, and the creative process of bringing the photos to life.

 

That first wedding sparked a passion, and I’ve been capturing love stories ever since!

First Wedding

3-week-old Emily, fast asleep on the floor at my very first wedding. A beautiful reminder that even in the chaos of a wedding day, there are quiet, precious moments that make everything unforgettable.

Based in ManawatÅ«, New Zealand, I specialise in weddings, lifestyle, and event photography. I’m also honoured to volunteer for SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support), capturing precious moments for families who have lost their babies.
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I grew up with old-school photography. My dad let me use his fancy cameras when I was young, and we even had a darkroom at home where he taught me how to develop negatives and photos—it was pure magic!
 
I LOVE weddings. My goal is to capture the moments that matter most to you—the ones you weren’t there for but will get to see in my photos, and the little things you probably won’t even remember happened! Whether it’s playful, candid laughter or something timeless and classic, I’m there to document it all. Over the years, I’ve gotten really good at helping brides with dresses, zipping stubborn gowns, pinning boutonnières on groomsmen, and keeping the bridal party on schedule (or at least helping them embrace the chaos!).
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When I’m not behind the lens, I’m a homeschool mama, doing all the home things. I love gardening and board games but never seem to do either as often as I’d like and I definately eat more dark chocolate than I should. I wouldn’t call myself musical, but worship music makes my soul sing—and sometimes, brings me to tears.

Browse my photos, and if you like what you see and need a photographer, send me a message—I’d love to connect!

Tara. -  P.S - I might look a few years older than that profile pic!​
 

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