About Me
Hi! My name is Sampford - Sam for short.
I’m a Wanaka-based photographer and videographer with a bit of an obsession for architecture. I specialise in photographing places, people and products.
I started my business as a photographer in Auckland in 2012. In 2021 I made the move down to the South Island to live in Wanaka, where I’ve now established my business.
I have a rare eye condition called Keratoconus, which distorts my eyesight and lends to my unique and minimalistic photographic style (or I like to think it does, at least).
In my downtime, my partner describes me as a “serial hobbyist” - I love to play guitar, hit the slopes, do karate and taste wines, although not all at once. Yet.
“We use Sam to capture our landscaping work in the Queenstown Lakes District. While some of our work can be as simple as planting, his shots capture our work beautifully. Sam is easy to work with and always delivers his work in a timely manner. We highly recommend Sam for his landscape, architecture and portraiture skills.”
Natural Habitats
“Sam and his team turned around our project in a short amount of time to ensure we met tight deadlines. [His] technical expertise was excellent, and advice and personable manner through each stage of the process (briefing, filming, editing) meant we received videos far greater than we originally anticipated.
Bayleys Realty Group
My Approach
I aim to create images and videos with the same care and clarity that my clients bring to their own work. Whether I’m photographing a finely detailed architectural space or capturing the atmosphere of a hospitality brand, my focus is always on simplicity, precision, and storytelling. My style leans toward the minimal, letting form, light and mood speak for themselves.
Experience & Background
With over fifteen years of experience behind the camera, I bring both technical expertise and a calm, considered approach to every shoot. I also live with Keratoconus, a rare eye condition that influences how I see the world — and, in turn, how I capture it. It’s shaped my appreciation for clarity, contrast, and minimalism in visual storytelling.
“Sam is an expert photographer with a real knack for design aesthetic. He went above and beyond to make suggestions on how to present the areas in their best form, but also captured the photo with grace and care. Highly recommended given his experience, personal approach and patience, and attention to detail. Thanks Sam.”
Aubrey Road Airbnb
Pricing & Bookings
I offer scalable pricing based on the scope of each project - large or small. To find out more or to make a booking, get in touch using the form below. Let me know what you need photographed/filmed, where you’re based, and whether you have a date in mind for shooting. I’ll then get back to you with my availability and pricing.
How I Work
I like to be hands-on from planning through to delivery. I’ll often coordinate key shots in advance, shoot with available light where possible, and adapt around weather to make sure your project is captured in the best conditions. My workflow is efficient and collaborative, and I aim to deliver work that feels thoughtful, polished, and suited to your requirements.
“Sam took new group photos for us last week, as well as headshots. We always feel a bit lost as to where to stand, how to look etc. so we loved that he gave us direction of what looked best and suggestions of different stances. Everything was quick and efficient and professional. Thanks so much Sam we all love our new photos and will definitely be using you again in the future!”
Mike Pero Mortgages Wanaka
Get in Touch
Combining my love for visual storytelling with my technical expertise, I like to fine-tune the small details and to craft the best possible results.
Think I’d be a good fit for your photo/video needs? Let me know how I can help by filling out my contact form and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible!