Esther Bunning has been creating beautiful images for over 30 years and is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s top portrait photographers. Her work has a unique, dreamy quality that’s instantly recognisable - often with a sense of quiet magic. Esther has a knack for capturing people, places and creating art in a way that feels deeply personal, often revealing layers you might otherwise miss. She experiments with creative techniques & tools, which adds a playful and artistic edge to her photography, and is always exploring mediums to elevate her photography. 

For her, photography isn’t isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about creating art that connects with people.

Available for commissions. 

Esther is a Nikon Ambassador for New Zealand, an Asukabook Ambassador for Australasia.

Her work is held in public galleries and private homes both in New Zealand and Internationally.

Some recent awards and accolades…

WINNER: Highly Commended Award | Sotherby’s International Realty | Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History |  Art Review 2023

FINALIST: Waikato Museum National Contemporary Art Award 2023

FINALIST: Parkin Drawing Prize 2022 and 2021

HONOURABLE MENTION and ‘TOP 5’ Jurors choice at the IPA International Photography Awards 2021

WINNER: NZIPP Creative Photographer of the Year 2023, 2021, 2020

WINNER: NZ PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 2020

NZ Pacific Studio 2020/2021 ANZAC Bridge Fellow

FINALIST: NZIPP Illustrative Photographer of the Year 2022

WINNER: Highest Scoring print award 2021 with 100/100 for The Secret Keeper book

HONOURABLE MENTION and ‘TOP 5’ Jurors choice at the IPA International Photography Awards

WINNER: NZIPP Portrait Open Photographer of the Year 2020

FINALIST: HeadOn International Portrait Award May 2020