During my time residing in Ōtepoti, Dunedin, I had the opportunity to enter into a contract with Port Otago, where my role involved capturing commercial images for their website, annual reviews, and various other photographic projects. It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to collaborate with the remarkable individuals at Port Otago. The nature of the work afforded me the chance to explore fascinating spaces, including the lofty straddle cranes, the pilot boat navigating the waters, and the bustling wharf area where all the excitement unfolded.

Prioritising health and safety were of utmost importance, and therefore, before embarking on any photography fieldwork, strict checks and balances had to be adhered to upon entering the premises.

Many of my images were used in their annual reports, websites, and in other marine publications.

https://www.portotago.co.nz/otago-harbour/overview/

Port Otago is 100% owned by the Otago Regional Council. In line with the company's Statement of corporate intent, Port Otago's principal objective is "to operate as a successful and sustainable business that delivers value to our shareholders in the form of both financial and non-financial returns on investment".

Port Otago employs about 300 people and paid $32.2 million in wages and salaries during 2020/21. Just over $46 million was spent on materials and services and capital projects. The company's $5 billion shipping-related cargo throughput value (i.e. excludes Chalmers Properties) was made up of $4.6 billion exports and $0.4 billion imports, reflecting the export nature of our country and region.

Reference: Port Otago (2023). Retrieved June 20, 2023, from https://www.portotago.co.nz/about/about-port-otago/

Photographing Port Otago was consistently the highlight of my workweek, an experience that never failed to bring me joy. The individuals I encountered were not only incredibly cool but also hardworking, hailing from diverse backgrounds and playing integral roles in a thriving and prosperous operation. Having the privilege to capture their stories through photography was a true honor, and I often wonder how much further I could have grown if I had stayed there.

I share this story cause I would love to tell your organisation or personal story through photography and or video. So get in contact below so we can start working together. The first consultation is at no charge.