Mudbrick, Waiheke Island, Auckland
A photographer's guide to one of New Zealand's most iconic wedding venues.
Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Mudbrick
If I had to choose one wedding venue that is the best for photos, Mudbrick would be right at the top of my list.
I've photographed more than 50 weddings here over the years, and every time I step onto the property I feel like I’m in Italy.
Set high above the Hauraki Gulf on Waiheke Island, Mudbrick has everything you look for in a wedding venue. From the beautiful stone and brick buildings, sculpted olive trees to the colourful wild flowers and sweeping ocean views, every part of the venue offers something stunning to photograph.
What really makes Mudbrick stand out for me, though, is the light.
Because the venue faces west and sits high above the coastline, it enjoys some of the most beautiful golden light and sunsets anywhere in Auckland. As the afternoon turns into evening, the whole property is bathed in soft, golden light that creates the most flattering, romantic photographs.
Amanda's expert Tips
Plan your timeline based on the best light for photos. And prioritise the timing for your couple photos, especially sunset photos.
Maximise using the venue as a back drop for your photos - it is so stunning, let’s show it off.
Don’t miss out on cocktail hour, plan your photos so that you get to enjoy it too, it is the most social part of the day.
Decorate the restaurant well so you have a personalised space as a wet weather back up for photos (even if you just focus on flowers for the bridal table). This also makes your reception photos look amazing.
My Favourite Photo Locations at Mudbrick
One of the things I love most about Mudbrick is that you never have to leave the venue to create incredible photos. Every area has it’s own character, and as the light changes throughout the day, different locations come to life.
The Lower Restaurant Steps
These steps are one of my favourite locations for couple portraits. The backlighting, bricks, gardens and surrounding native trees create simple timeless photographs while still showcasing the character of Mudbrick.
the driveway
I love to show off the venue by shooting on the driveway and using the restaurant/garden as a backdrop. Always maximise the beautiful venue you have chosen by showing it off in photos.
STEPS LEADING TO ROOFTOP GARDEN BAR
This spot is beautiful for candid/walking couple photos, in summer and autumn it’s lined with flowers. The backdrop of the iconic Mudbrick gabled roof is clean/simple and rustic.
ROOFTOP GARDEN BAR
You get beautiful ocean views from the rooftop garden bar, and its the best place to use that stunning sunset backdrop. During daylight savings the sunset shoot is between the entree and mains, so being right next to the restaurant, this spot is also quick to get to, so that we can smash out some shots and get back to the party.
Wet weather option
The restaurant is a great spot for a wet weather option. It can be really intimate seeing it set up with just the two of you there. Make it personal with your styling and flowers and you’ve got a beautiful space for photos whatever the weather.
My Biggest Tip for Couples Getting Married at Mudbrick
If there's one piece of advice I give every Mudbrick couple, it's this:
Don't do your portraits too early.
The venue is certainly beautiful all day, but the magic happens as the sun gets lower.
During spring and summer, I usually recommend photographing the bridal party just before dinner, when the light is softer and more flattering. We then head out for your couple portraits around 20 minutes before sunset, spending around 20 minutes together before returning to the reception.
This timing makes an enormous difference to your photographs and still allows you to enjoy your cocktail hour and the evening with your guests
SUGGESTED TIMELINES
AUTUMN Weddings
(NON DAYLIGHT SAVINGS - APRIL/MAY)
12.30 PM PHOTOGRAPH BRIDE GETTING READY (OFFSITE)
2 PHOTOGRAPH GROOM GETTING READY (AT MUDBRICK)
2:30PM FIRST LOOK (AT MUDBRICK)
2.45PM BRIDAL PARTY PHOTOS/COUPLE PHOTOS
4:00PM CEREMONY
4:30 PM COCKTAIL HOUR
5:15 PM SUNSET COUPLE PHOTOS
6:00 PM BACK TO COCKTAIL HOUR
6:15 PM FAMILY PHOTOS
7:00PM RECEPTION BEGINS
7:00PM SPEECHES AND DINNER
9 PM CAKE CUTTING, FIRST DANCE, GUESTS DANCING
Spring/Summer Weddings
(DAYLIGHT SAVINGS)
2 PM PHOTOGRAPH GROOM GETTING READY
2.30 PHOTOGRAPH BRIDE GETTING READY
4:15PM CEREMONY
5:00PM FAMILY PHOTOS
5:15PM COCKTAIL HOUR
6:15PM BRIDAL PARTY/COUPLE PHOTOS
7:00PM RECEPTION BEGINS
7:00PM SPEECHES AND ENTREE
8:00PM (APPROX.) SUNSET COUPLE PHOTOS
8.30 PM MAINS AND SPEECHES
9.15 PM CAKE CUTTING, FIRST DANCE, GUESTS DANCING
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?
Rain doesn't stop beautiful photographs at Mudbrick.
Over the years I've photographed many wet-weather weddings here, and some of my favourite images have actually been taken indoors.
The Lodge has a purpose built sheltered courtyard for the ceremony and it also offers lovely spaces for bridal party photographs, particularly around the lounge and the striking black-and-white tiled hallway.
For couple portraits, I often head into the restaurant where the large windows create beautiful natural light. If you've put thought into styling your reception or floral installations, this is also a wonderful opportunity to incorporate those details into your photographs while still capturing the unmistakable Mudbrick atmosphere.
REAL WEDDINGS
CLICK BELOW TO VIEW GALLERIES OF REAL MUDBRICK WEDDINGS
EMILY & ADAM
MUDBRICK, WAIHEKE ISLAND
PAIGE & BEN
MUDBRICK, WAIHEKE ISLAND
Planning Your Mudbrick Wedding?
If you're getting married at Mudbrick, I can create photographs for you that feel natural, timeless and true to your day.
Having photographed more than 50 weddings here, I know the venue, the light and the little moments that make it amazing. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you and help you make the most of every part of your wedding day.