About Michaela Hanke

My ability to see beauty in landscape and people is rewarding and keeps me happy. I get a huge satisfaction out of feeling the grandness of the moment when it occurs and I rely on my instincts and compositional sense to capture it. When the magic hits it is almost as if everything falls into place, and feelings arise that no other place at no other time could reproduce. I believe everyone can experience this, but I feel lucky being a photographer and being able to make it permanent.

My images work on different levels, as a travel photograph, a portrait but also as a reportage picture. I travel and observe with the ultimate goal of indulging and having a good time. Photography nurtures my positive mind and helps me to stay focused on the good things in life. The way I photograph is very spontaneous and happens instantly when it is in front of me. The secret is to keep an open eye or better, an open heart. The resulting images are colourful and optimistic, moody at times but never sad. They invite the viewer to appreciate the ordinary.

I was born in East Germany and became a world traveller with the fall of the Berlin Wall. In 2004 my New Zealand travel journal was published, a homage to this unique country that changed my life forever. In 2007 I became a resident of New Zealand and I have since fullfilled my ambition to create a collection of images that contains my personal view and experience of New Zealand. Captured are the native forests that have remained largely untouched by man, as well as the vast area of mountains, lakes and fiords showcasing the beautiful country in its different lights. All photographs reflect the heart and soul of a wilderness that I have bonded with forever. You are invited to view and purchase this collection of moody and evocative landscape images.

In 2009 I have returned to Germany and started a brand consulting business to design and position eco friendly products in various markets. My professional expertise in the creative world includes a range of marketing roles in Germany, England and New Zealand. Along with this, I have worked with professional photographers in these countries which has evolved my artistic skills and my ability to see and create beautiful images, products and brands.