8 New Zealand Photo Tours & Photoshoots to Build a Morning Around

1.AuthenticAs Star Gazing -Nightscape Portrait Photography Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 59 reviews Our pick

Join Simon or Emma for a private two-hour nightscape photography trip from Queenstown. Visit a dark-sky location near Lake Wakatipu or the mountains, learn to photograph stars and constellations, hear Māori sky stories, and pose for a portrait beneath the stars.

“Simon is just GREAT! He took good care of my husband and I. He made sure that we were safe, warm and comfortable. He is knowledgable, professional, and patient. I would definitely recommend this tour to my friends who would visit QueeRead more”

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2.From Wanaka: Ruby Island 1-Hour Cruise and Photo Walk

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 43 reviews · 1 hour · from $29Best value

Cruise from Wanaka’s lakefront to photogenic Ruby Island with a local English-speaking skipper-guide. Learn about its prohibition-era past, spot native and exotic plants, and enjoy broad lake and mountain views. The walk is easy but uneven, rising 20 meters, and you can stay aboard if needed.

“Had the best time in Wanaka! Chris and Dan were fantastic – so knowledgeable and just great blokes. Highly recommend this trip in Wanaka a Must do !!!!”

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3.Photography Tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy – 1/2 Day

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 32 reviews · from $235

Join photographer Glen Howey for a private five-hour drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy. You’ll photograph Lake Wakatipu, beech forests, mountains, rivers, and film locations linked to The Lord of the Rings and Narnia, with camera coaching, snacks, pickup, and a tripod on request.

“Glen was very knowledgeable and friendly. Superb experience for a photographer who wants the best scenes to shoot and to learn more about the camera.”

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4.Half-Day Queenstown Photography Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · from $235

Join award-winning photographer Glen Howey for a private five-hour photography tour from Queenstown to Skippers Canyon. You’ll visit quieter viewpoints, learn practical camera skills, enjoy snacks, and time your return after the best natural light. Bring a fully charged camera battery.

“I really enjoy the tour with Glen. The fotos are stunning and his photography skills are so good!!!! I have recommended my frds to join!! A must go itinerary if you love scenery experience 🫶🏻”

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5.Full Day Queenstown & Southern Lakes Private Photography Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 27 reviews · from $263

Join a professional photographer such as Martin or Mark for a private nine-hour tour from Queenstown, Frankton, or Arrowtown. Learn camera settings and composition while exploring Skippers Canyon, Glenorchy, Wanaka, the Remarkables, or wine country in a comfortable 4WD.

“Martin was an excellent professional guide. His knowledge of the area and history of the people is stellar. I would highly recommend his services for a wonderful small group experience. His knowledge of photography is second to none. I highly recommend this tour and would love to work with him again.”

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6.Queenstown: Half Day Private Photography Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4 reviews · 5 hours · from $192

Join Martin from Remarkable Imagery Photography Tours for five private hours around Queenstown and the Wakatipu basin. Choose scenic, historic, people-focused, or creative subjects, learn better camera or iPhone settings, and stop at both famous viewpoints and quieter local spots.

“Extraordinary tour! Extraordinary guide! We saw an amazing amount of Queenstown back country that had breath taking vistas. Great photos !!! Do not miss this.”

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7.Private Photoshoot in Lake Tekapo

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews

Meet Lara at the Church of the Good Shepherd for a private one-hour photoshoot around Lake Tekapo. She guides you through natural poses, chooses locations and timing for the light, and delivers 30 edited high-resolution images within three days. Outfit changes are welcome.

“The photoshoot was fun and enjoyable. Lara took us to some of the best spot around Lake Tekapo and she was pleasant and accommodating. We are satisfied with the photoshoot process and moreover the result. Thank you. Hope we can come back.”

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8.Queenstown and Environs: Full Day Private Photography Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2 reviews · 9 hours · from $292

Join Martin, a passionate local photographer, for a private nine-hour tour around Queenstown and the Wakatipu basin. Choose iconic views, local history, people, or a personal creative theme. Your guide adapts the route to weather, light, and your camera skills, with hotel pickup included.

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