About Capture New Zealand

Our Story

Founded in 2005 by professional landscape photographer Phillip Bartlett, Capture New Zealand is the premier provider of photography workshops, tours and expeditions in New Zealand. When we began leading photography trips our vision was to provide photographers with exceptional, world-class programs. Today, we continue to provide original experiences which inspire photographers to refine their personal style and produce works with a higher level of originality, depth, and quality. The itineraries have evolved over the years as photographers became more adventurous and we led the way with new, innovative experiences such as photography from a helicopter with the doors off. On our workshops we explore iconic and hidden locations, where there is freedom to experiment with composition and technique while receiving generous one-to-one guidance to help realise your creative vision. Wherever you are on your photographic journey we work with you to become a more skilful and confident photographer.

Through many years of arranging and managing logistics we have established a solid network of dependable and hospitable partners. As a result, our itineraries are well organised and deliver a seamless, quality experience. We are also licenced by the New Zealand Department of Conservation to guide photographers in National Parks and Reserves, in accordance with government regulations.

When we reflect on the success we are blessed with, it is not how many programs we have run or how many years we have run them; we appreciate the many photographers who have become part of the Capture New Zealand family and continue to join us on other New Zealand, and international, journeys.

We welcome you to join us for your next photography adventure!

Our Values

Deliver Excellence: Every workshop is conducted with the goals of each photographer our foremost priority.
Welcoming and Open Environment: Community mindset with an inclusive and friendly atmosphere.
On-Point Mentoring: Relevant, practical and individual instruction for every level of photographic ability and experience.
Integrity and Care: Each photographer treated as we ourselves like to be treated.
Inspire and Challenge: Teaching photographers how to move beyond the predictable and cultivate creativity and experimentation.
Fun: While we are dedicated to great photography, this is also a holiday so we always enjoy ourselves!
Ongoing Development: We are always available to offer constructive feedback and advice to help you progress as a photographer.

Photography Leader

Phillip Bartlett is a photographer, workshop instructor and expedition leader who is widely recognised as the pioneer of New Zealand multi-day, multi-region photo workshops. With over 20 years' experience, Phillip's in-depth knowledge of the New Zealand landscape have made very special hidden locations accessible for well-travelled photographers looking for unique perspectives. His skill as a photographer and ability to impart knowledge has led to partnerships with respected international photographers and photo workshop providers.

In 2015, Phillip began leading photo expeditions in Indonesia, exploring some of the archipalego's most spectacular and wildlife-rich locations. His connection with this fascinating country spans 30 years, and his talented wife Engelina is a descendant of the Royal Kingdom in Central Java.

Phillip's own photography journey is currently exploring the lesser-known landscapes of New Zealand, and a concise portfolio of his works can be viewed at phillipbartlett.com.

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

He took us to several well off the track locations that there is no way I would have known about or ever found – but yielded spectacular photographs. The second is that he gave us room to work, but was always on hand for questions or queries. I like to work at my own methodical pace and don’t require photographic instruction – but I often did want to know how Phillip as a local saw the shot in his minds eye and where he felt it worked best based on his experience with the area. To this end he was extremely helpful and I owe him a debt of gratitude in this respect as it has contributed to the quality of shots I was able to get. Many photographers often think the best way to shoot a new location is on their own, but those of us who have been to a new area with a good guide know that there is no substitute for local knowledge. And that local knowledge saves a huge amount of time (and time is money) and contributes to images of far greater quality. To this end Phillip was nothing short of brilliant – a better guide could not be had.

Joshua Holko, Australia.

I want to thank you for the South Island tour which you arranged for us. In addition to selecting spectacular locations, you knew just where and when we could capture the best photographs. While we would have certainly enjoyed New Zealand on our own, we would not have come home with outstanding images without your help. As you know, we hoped to combine our photography with a sampling of the luxury lodges and fine cuisine which are available in New Zealand. Thanks to your careful selection of accommodations and dining, our expectations in this regard were exceeded in every respect. We appreciate the effort you put into making our trip both memorable and productive. Your attitude was unfailing helpful, and we enjoyed traveling with you. In a world which generally over-promises and under-delivers, it is refreshing to meet an individual who does the opposite. We look forward to seeing more of New Zealand and to our next adventure with you.

Robert Larson and Diana Barthauer, USA.

Capture New Zealand Photo Expeditions is organised and run by Phillip Bartlett, and the secret to his success is not in advising photographers on technical issues, but in knowing where the most stunning scenery is where, even if you only took photographs with your phone, the images are spectacular. However, if you are in need of specialised advice he is only too happy to provide it.
Serious landscape photographers will not be disappointed in joining one of Phillip's photographic expeditions.

Graham Bell, Australia.

With an exquisite countryside, photographic opportunities around each bend and a guide with a wonderful sense of humor we couldn’t have had more fun. We would unequivocally and without hesitation recommend Phillip to anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in New Zealand.

Ron and Donna Salett, USA.

Read more feedback from our clients on our testimonials page.