About Capture New Zealand

Since 2005, Capture New Zealand has been at the forefront of world-class New Zealand photography tours, workshops, and expeditions. We design experiences for photographers who want to capture the majestic beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes while developing their creative vision.

Focus

Founded by professional landscape photographer Phillip Bartlett, we are dedicated to delivering extraordinary photography experiences combining expert instruction, inspiring locations, and exceptional travel. Over two decades, our programs have evolved to offer photographers unique journeys, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, with personalised hands-on instruction every step of the way.

Philosophy

Designed for All Experience Levels: Whether beginner or seasoned, our workshops help you grow your skills and confidence.
Iconic & Off-the-Known-Trail Locations: Photograph both famous and lesser-known New Zealand landscapes.
One-on-One Mentoring: Individual coaching in the field to refine your technique and creative vision.
Hassle-free & Inspiring Journeys: Years of logistics expertise mean you can focus on photography, while we handle the details.

We are licensed by the New Zealand Department of Conservation, ensuring every adventure is safe, compliant, and environmentally respectful.

Values

Deliver Excellence: Every workshop prioritizes your goals and creative growth.
Welcoming Community: Inclusive, supportive environments for all participants.
Practical Instruction: Hands-on mentoring tailored to you.
Integrity & Care: Personalized attention for every photographer.
Inspiration & Fun: Photography should be both educational and enjoyable.
Ongoing Support: We are always available to offer feedback and advice long after your workshop ends.

Your Guide — Phillip Bartlett

Phillip Bartlett is a highly-experienced New Zealand landscape photographer, workshop instructor, and expedition leader. With over 20 years of professional expertise, Phillip’s knowledge of light, location, and fieldcraft elevates every participant’s photographic journey.

Since 2015, Phillip has also led photography expeditions to Indonesia, sharing his expertise and passion with photographers worldwide.

What You’ll Discover With Us

From rugged coastlines and alpine vistas to reflective lakes and ancient forests, our photography tours in New Zealand provide unparalleled opportunities to explore and capture the country’s stunning diversity. Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to maximize your creative potential.

Upcoming Workshops & Tours

We regularly update our website with a upcoming photo workshops, tours, and expeditions.

View all workshops and tours.

What Our Photographers Say

Our participants often return for multiple trips and refer friends because of the quality of our experiences and the friendships formed along the way.

Read reviews on our Testimonials page.

Upcoming Workshops, Tours & Expeditions

New Zealand Luxury Photography Tour 8 Day

22 June 2026 to 29 June 2026

Indulge your senses on this luxury 2026 New Zealand photography tour. Breath-taking photography locations, exclusive lodges and exquisite cuisine.

Workshop Information

South Island Winter New Zealand Photo Workshop 12 Day

1 July 2026 to 12 July 2026

Designed for photographers wanting to capture the landscapes of New Zealand's South Island in the winter light.

Workshop Information

Ocean Birds of Kaikōura Photo Workshop 3 Day

4 December 2026 to 6 December 2026

Learn professional bird photography technique and photograph albatross and other pelagic bird species, in-flight and on the water.

Workshop Information

See all our workshops, tours and expeditions on our tours and workshops page.

Testimonials

I’m going over my images while waiting to depart from the Christchurch airport – what an amazing trip! Thanks so much for your instruction, sherpa and guiding, my images are so much better due to y’all. I really enjoyed my time spent with everyone, I could not have asked for better traveling companions.

Suzanne W, USA.

I’ve attended multiple photography workshops in different countries, and Phillip is definitely one of the best photographers I’ve had the privilege to work with. Most photographers attend workshops to improve their compositional skills, as we’ve already mastered the use of our cameras. If this is what you’re looking for then you’ve found the right photographer/workshop. At each location Phillip gave individual attention to each photographer’s composition, giving advice and the rationale for it. Sometimes a small shift in the angle of the camera or stepping a little to the left or right can make or break your image, and a more experienced eye is needed to pick out the subtle nuances in your composition. I was amazed at Phillip’s compositional eye as he immediately saw what needed to be corrected when he looked at my LCD monitor. So if you’re looking for a photography workshop for New Zealand, look no further!

Hilton Chen, USA.

The South Island of New Zealand contains some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and being led around by someone so experienced in the terrain as well as reading the weather (I swear that Phillip works as a part-time meteorologist) gives you the best possible opportunities to capture amazing photographs. Phillip tailors his teaching style to your abilities and he has helped me a lot to refine the way I compose an image on the field. Being able to discuss and share ideas with a professional photographer throughout the workshop was invaluable - I now have a better sense of the overall aesthetic and style that I would like to put across in my work. Phillip has curated a list of accommodations that are comfortable, clean and spacious. There is always good food along the way and he knows where the best coffee and hot chocolate can be had. This was my first trip with Phillip and certainly not my last. I hope to join him for other adventures in the near future.

Patrick Lau, Singapore.

Your willingness to share your professional skills and talents, time and time again, was greatly appreciated. I know this was a BIG bonus to us, me in particular, over the entire three weeks. It took me more than a week to recuperate from the early mornings, late evenings, and go-go-go characteristic of the entire tour, but I have absolutely NO complaints. I never did feel like I was a “tourist” while in your care. Good food, outstanding wine, and exceptional companionship. We came, we saw, we did, we conquered (I think), and we returned home with real quality memories.

Capt. Kirby Robinson, USA.

Read more feedback from our clients on our testimonials page.