Liza Haarhoff award winning photographer

meet liza

I grew up with a photographer mum, and all her prints drying on the bathroom wall— so photography has always been part of my life. My Dad had jobs all over the world, so I’ve lived in 7 different countries and went to a total of 12 schools, but New Zealand is now my permanent home.

With a fine arts degree and experience on projects at Massey University and heritage sites in the UK, I’m now focused on what I enjoy most: capturing people through portraits. I’m a portrait photographer with a love for fine art and storytelling.

I’ve been fortunate to have worked as a Graphic Designer, and Educational Media Developer, and some of my fine art creative work has been exhibited as fine art paintings. But my greatest passion lies in creating beautiful, meaningful portraits of people, especially for those who love them the most.

I also have a soft spot for animals, an undying love for a good cup of tea, and a knack for always being prepared—whether for a creative challenge or an unexpected disaster! And if you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, I completely understand—I don’t like being photographed myself, which is why I do everything I can to make the experience easy, comfortable, and even enjoyable for you.

Otis Lane Portrait Studio history
Painting by Liza Haarhoff

Meet OTIS

Otis the cat

Yes, he is everywhere, on the props, nesting amongst the dresses and he loves nothing better than to be in my camera lens! Hence the name - Otis Lane - he’s the real studio owner!

He’s been photographed almost as much as my clients and has a knack for appearing at just the right moment— especially when I need to test a lens in the studio, or a little one needs a friendly face to smile at!