Although the equipment and techniques she used had changed many times over the years, she said capturing that fleeting moment was still something she loved, and what drew her into wedding photography.
She started her business, Tandem Photography, about 11 years ago with her husband and fellow photographer Neil Williams.
She had spent about a decade working overseas, much of it spent on cruise ships, but said she wanted to move home to Christchurch to put down roots.
In spite of winning several awards, she said it was still difficult to make a living as a professional photographer.
Winning the top Iris award blew her away and was a "totally overwhelming feeling", she said.
