I was commissioned by the Napier City Council to create a formal portrait of Mayor Kirsten Wise, a piece that would join the gallery of past mayors displayed throughout the council offices and corridors. The brief called for a timeless, dignified portrait that captured the strength and character of the mayor.

 

For this Hawke's Bay formal headshot photography session, we chose to showcase Kirsten wearing a gifted korowai, symbolising cultural significance and pride. The portrait was set against a stunning hand-painted backdrop by Sarah Olliphant, one of New York’s most renowned artists, whose backdrops have been used by top photographers like Annie Leibovitz. I’m fortunate to own one of these beautiful, historic backdrops, which added a sense of grandeur to the session.

 

The lighting for the portrait was carefully crafted to give the image a painterly quality, creating a striking visual that spoke of authority, grace, and strength. The result was a portrait that not only honored Kirsten’s position as mayor but also reflected the classic style of formal portraiture, creating a lasting visual legacy.

 

This project showcases the value of Hawke's Bay personal branding, where thoughtful, lighting design creates a powerful representation that transcends the typical corporate headshot. It’s about telling a story, capturing character, and leaving a lasting impression — all of which were accomplished through this timeless portrait.