MEET KIRSTY
I'm Kirsty Joy (KJ), the proud founder of Kirsty Joy Creative, where every click of the shutter is infused with a deep sense of purpose and personal connection.
My journey into photography has been shaped by the twists and turns of my own life, navigating through various traumas. This journey, coupled with my studies in psychology, has given me a unique understanding of the strength that lies within every woman.
I see each photoshoot as an opportunity to empower others on their journey, capturing not only moments but the resilience and beauty that emerge from life's challenges.
beyond the Lens
My photography is centred around people and the stories that make them who they are. From weddings and portraits to personal branding, sport and community, I love creating imagery that feels authentic, emotive and full of connection.
With a background in psychology, coaching and working alongside women and young people, I bring more than just a camera to my work. I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel comfortable, confident and seen, whether that’s empowering a woman in front of the camera, capturing the raw emotion of an athlete, or telling the story of the people behind a community.
My love of photography began back in the ’90s with my mum’s Olympus OM-10, when I was regularly told off for getting through rolls of film faster than they could be developed. That curiosity never really left.
Photography has taught me to notice the things that are easy to miss, the fleeting expressions, quiet connections, strength, vulnerability and beautifully imperfect moments in between.
For me, the best photographs don’t just show you what something looked like.
They make you feel what it was like to be there.
ACHEIVEMENTS
I’m proud to share that my dedication to excellence has earned me Winner of the Micro business category at the Northland Business Awards 2021 and Judges Choice Award at the Northland Business Awards in 2024.
On an international stage, I’ve been honoured with both winner and runner-up recognitions in Asia Pacific Photo Awards and winner of the Maternity Category in the International Portrait Masters Awards 2024.
Additionally, I am humbled to have earned New Zealand’s Most Outstanding Wedding Photographer at the NZ Wedding Industry Awards 2022.
beyond the lens
Beyond the lens, my life is infused with 2 beautiful sons, a loving husband and many animals and a passion for sports. As an athlete and coach in athletics, representing New Zealand overseas and breaking records in my age grade, I bring the same dedication and creativity to my sporting pursuits and motherhood as I do to photography.
To my next client, I offer more than a service – I offer an experience.
It’s a chance to be seen and celebrated in the artistry of my lens. Whether it’s capturing the glow of maternity, the joy of weddings, or the beauty of empowerment, Kirsty Joy Creative is where moments transform into cherished memories, and each image tells a story of empowerment, grace and love.
