A BRAND FACELIFT AFTER 10 YEARS
I have run my photography side hustle for over 10 years now. My first ever paid photography jobs were in high school when my class mates would pay me $50-$100 to shoot their 18th birthday parties. I shot my first wedding when I was 17 (I think I charged them $400). I dabbled in shooting nightclubs, and then as I begun travelling, I picked up odd photo gigs. From 2011 to 2024 I have always gone by Cassiesanay (My first and middle name Cassie Sanay - an original thought for a 17 year old.)
But, after much reflection and consideration, I've actioned a rebrand from Cassiesanay Photography to Wanaka Boudoir Portrait Photography. This change signifies more than just a new name; it marks a new direction and focus for my passion and professional journey.
THE BEGINNING (2011) - Party photos
THE FUTURE -BOUDOIR PORTRAITURE
WHY the rebrand?
Brand Clarity: Previously, under Cassiesanay Photography, I offered a diverse range of photography services, including action sports, portraiture, landscape, and commercial photography. While this showcased my versatility and skills, it often led to confusion among clients. By focusing specifically on boudoir and portrait photography, I can provide a clearer, more cohesive brand experience. This specialisation allows me to cater directly to clients seeking these intimate and empowering sessions without the mix of unrelated services.
Enhanced SEO: The new name, Wanaka Boudoir Portrait Photography, strategically includes both the location and the primary services offered. This will significantly improve our search engine optimisation (SEO). Clients searching for boudoir or portrait photography in Wanaka are more likely to find us at the top of their search results (If Google wants to help me out).
A Shift in Mindset: My journey with photography began in high school and evolved through various genres. Initially, after school I ventured into wedding photography, which was a natural choice for making a living. However, as I shared in my previous blog, I soon realised weddings were not my passion. I then turned to action sports photography, driven by my love for adrenaline and adventure. Despite the thrill, I found it challenging to break into this highly competitive field without complete dedication.
After years of honing my skills, I discovered a deep passion for portraiture. It is by far the most challenging and rewarding genre I’ve explored. The art of capturing the essence of a person in a single frame fascinated me, and I am constantly working on mastering it. This journey led me to boudoir photography, where I found a perfect blend of empowerment, encouragement, and artistic expression. Boudoir photography allows me to celebrate and highlight the unique beauty and strength of individuals, making it the perfect path forward.
What to Expect from Wanaka Boudoir Portrait Photography
At Wanaka Boudoir Portrait Photography, we are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space for self-expression and exploration. Our sessions are designed to empower and uplift, capturing the authentic essence of our clients. Whether you're looking to celebrate a personal milestone, boost your confidence, or simply indulge in a day of pampering and photography, we are here to make the experience unforgettable.
Our approach blends the serene beauty of Wanaka’s natural landscapes with artistic vision, resulting in timeless portraits that you will cherish for a lifetime. We believe in tasteful, respectful photography that highlights your inner and outer beauty.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I am incredibly excited about this new direction and look forward to capturing stunning, empowering portraits of the amazing individuals I have the privilege to work with.
Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to book a session.



