Spring Through the Lens, Marlborough, New Zealand
Spring in the Marlborough region at the top of the South Island of New Zealand is pure magic. While most visitors associate the region with world class Sauvignon Blanc, macro photographers and landscape lovers know that October brings a vibrant revival across the Wairau and Awatere Valleys.
Spring Blooms in the Gardens
For the past few years I’ve been living on a property in a vineyard on the outskirts of Blenheim. While I enjoy looking out at some truly amazing landscapes, the northern view is marred by power lines and large pylons crossing the scene, and to the southwest the outlook faces a sizeable food processing factory. Thankfully, the property is still graced with some beautiful gardens. In Blenheim there are two main public gardens, Pollard Park which is the largest, and Seymour Square in central Blenheim. The Marlborough District Council gardeners do a wonderful job in keeping these gardens well tended and inviting for residents and visitors alike.
Throughout spring and summer, you'll often see me wandering through the gardens, camera in hand, capturing the beauty found in every corner. Below is a selection of the images I've photographed so far, celebrating the colours and details of the season.
Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom
Sometimes the most compelling images aren't found in dramatic landscapes or breathtaking sunsets. In the centre of the driveway’s turning circle, within the home garden, stands a large Japanese cherry tree, its broad canopy offering a great focal point. The soft petals, subtle textures, and delicate colours only reveal themselves when you take the time to look closely. This close up photo of the cherry blossoms reminded me that creativity often comes from slowing down long enough to notice what others walk past. Photography continues to teach me that patience is often more valuable than rushing to the next opportunity.
Vineyards in Budburst
Waking up each morning and stepping out of my front doorstep to a view over the vineyards is truly a wonderful way to begin the day. Bud burst is one of the first signs that spring has arrived in the vineyards. After months of preparation, seeing fresh growth emerge is always a special moment and an exciting reminder that a new vintage journey has begun.
It's quite rewarding photographing the fresh growth, and I especially enjoy using my TTArtisan 40mm F2.8 1:1 macro lens, because this is a manual focus lens, the camera typically needs to be set up on a tripod for precise composition. I appreciate this lens because it lets you fill the frame with the subject without needing to crop later, and it encourages you to slow down and take the time to ensure the focus is absolutely right.
Micro Worlds. Insects & Early Pollinators
In spring the Japanese cherry tree in the central driveway garden comes to life with a wide range of insects visiting the delicate flowers. Predominantly bees and bumblebees make frequent visits, which can be quite challenging to photograph as they are constantly darting from one blossom to another. I prefer to use the Sigma 18–50mm f/2.8 macro lens for fast moving insects because it pairs well with the fast autofocus insect tracking feature in my camera, allowing me to secure a sharp, well focused image of the small subjects. My Sony A6700 in High+ burst mode captures up to 11 fps, but I usually shoot at the High burst rate of 8 fps because it provides a blackout free EVF live view and, in my experience it tends to yield a higher keeper rate with a slightly lower frame rate.
Below is a selection of images I captured of a bumblebee among the cherry blossoms.
Whether you are aiming to capture macro details of pollinators, views of vineyard bud burst, or the soft pastel petals of spring gardens, Marlborough offers endless inspiration this time of year. Pack your camera gear, chase the soft morning light, and explore the region's vibrant spring colours.
Have a favourite garden or photo spot in Marlborough? Share your thoughts in the comments below!