Queenstown is surrounded by an extraordinary landscap. Alpine peaks, luminous lakes, braided rivers, historic settlements & wide-open valleys. In every direction, changing light & weather reveal new photographic possibilities.

Spend a full day exploring this remarkable region on a nine-hour private photography tour with an experienced local landscape photographer. Designed for photographers of every ability, our experience combines inspiring locations, practical one-on-one guidance and the freedom to work at a comfortable pace.

Queenstown’s weather and light are wonderfully changeable, so no two tours are ever quite the same. We’ll choose the day’s locations with you, taking into account what you would love to photograph and where the conditions are looking their best. There is no extra charge for adjusting the route—it’s simply part of enjoying a private photography tour.

Suggested itinerary:

Pickup and introduction – approximately 30 minutes

Your guide collects you from your accommodation in the Queenstown area. We begin with a relaxed chat about your photography experience, interests and the subjects you would most like to capture.

Queenstown viewpoint – approximately 1 hour

Travel to a high vantage point overlooking Queenstown and the Wakatipu Basin. Photograph Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and the surrounding mountain ranges while your guide helps with composition, exposure and camera settings.

Morning photography journey – approximately 2.5 hours

Continue through the Queenstown landscape, visiting two or three carefully chosen locations. Depending on the day, these may feature reflective lakes, rushing rivers, alpine tussock, native forest, rural scenery or traces of the region’s gold-mining heritage.

Lunch stop – approximately 1 hour

Pause in a nearby village, where you can choose something for lunch from a local café or restaurant. Lunch is purchased separately, giving you the freedom to choose whatever takes your fancy.

Afternoon photography journey – approximately 3 hours

Venture farther into the surrounding landscape for another series of photography stops. Follow the best available light through mountain valleys, lakeside scenery or historic countryside, with time to slow down, try different compositions and photograph each location thoughtfully. Your guide will be nearby whenever you would like creative ideas or a little technical help.

Return and drop-off – approximately 1 hour

Enjoy final photographic opportunities on the journey back before being returned to your accommodation.

Your tour includes your private guide, friendly one-to-one photography guidance, comfortable private transport, fuel, parking, pickup and drop-off, plus tea, coffee and cookies along the way. Everything required for the photography tour is included in the price. You’ll only need to bring your camera, suitable clothing and money for your choice of lunch or any personal purchases. Camera rental can also be arranged separately if required.