“Hi. My name is Paul Green and I’m a photographer”

It hasnt always been that way though.

In fact, for the last 25+ years I’ve been a designer and an art director. Commissioning people like me to take photos for clients. So why have I jumped ship? Quite simply I came to realise that my true love was in crafting those beautiful images, and yes, I believe it is a craft.

Having worked with some of New Zealand’s best photographers – as a commissioning designer and art director – I gained a unique insight into that craft. Experience that helped hone my technical skills and gave me an appreciation of what it takes to be a successful photographer. I remain indebted to those mentors.

What do I photograph?

My design background means that I’m naturally drawn to anything that makes a strong and beautiful visual. That often means graphic forms, simple shapes and strong compositions. I’m always striving to distil a subject or scene into its most reduced form in the hope of capturing its ‘essence’. Not always easy of course! Unlike much advertising though, I believe the strongest images are ones with a real story to tell – not a contrived one. When I can combine a strong visual with a moving story – that’s when I know I’ve hit the sweet spot!

Whenua

Based in New Zealand’s beautiful Queenstown, I’m surrounded by some of the country’s most recognisable landscapes and incredible light. This land has become very important to me so it should be no surprise that it’s a recurring theme in my work.

What else should you know about me?

I lived in Guatemala and El Salvador for a while back in the 90’s. I love to travel and explore new places – especially in pursuit of the perfect espresso! I love road trips in my vintage Volkswagen Kombi. And I’ve been known to shoot the odd short film (winning Best Cinematography awards in the 48 Hour Film Festival in 2014 and again in 2015). I was once arrested and placed under armed guard in Yugoslavia – but that’s another story!

Get in touch today to have a chat about your next project.