Maria Buhrkuhl Photography

I’m Maria Buhrkuhl — an award‑winning portrait and family photographer based in Christchurch, GB. For more than two decades I’ve been helping families capture who they truly are: the small gestures, the messy joy, the quiet connections. I specialise in family photography and take a storytelling approach that feels relaxed, natural and child‑friendly so your portraits reflect authentic relationships rather than stiff poses. Why choose me for your family photoshoot in Christchurch? I combine fine‑art training (Masters with Distinction) and years of teaching experience with a warm, calm manner that works brilliantly with children and nervous adults alike. My work has been recognised in national and international awards and I’m an accredited member of NZIPP — but more important to me is creating images that families actually live with: printed wall art, folio boxes and albums that become heirlooms. My approach is always client‑led. Before your session we chat — by phone or in the studio — about what matters to your family: favourite locations, clothing, and the style of artworks you imagine on your walls. You can choose a studio session in my home‑based, child‑proof studio or we can meet on location at one of Christchurch’s beautiful parks, beaches or family farms. For outdoor work I love shooting in the golden hour to capture soft, emotive light. On the day I focus on ease and connection. My sessions are playful and unobtrusive: no forced smiles, no cookie‑cutter posing. I guide families gently, encouraging real interaction that produces honest expressions and lasting memories. After the shoot you’ll view your images in a personal reveal — either a private gallery or an in‑studio slideshow — and I’ll help you design printed artworks that suit your home. I believe photography isn’t complete until your images are enjoyed every day, so I specialise in producing beautiful tangible products rather than leaving you with files that sit unseen. Whether you want a relaxed newborn lifestyle shoot, playful children portraits, or a multi‑generation family session to mark a birthday or milestone, my priority is to make the experience enjoyable and the results timeless. Let’s talk about your story and create family photography in Christchurch you’ll love for years to come.