Photography and film for those who value craft and character.
High-End Visuals. Grounded in Experience
Who I Am (The Director)
Paul Abbitt is the creative lead behind Flax Cove Studio—an award-winning photographer, filmmaker, and drone pilot based in Raglan. With a background rooted in high-end editorial and commercial work—ranging from museum exhibitions to global assignments—Paul brings a unique, world-class perspective to every project. Decades of experience, including work exhibited at the Louvre in Paris and galleries across London, have proven that the most impactful imagery results from a blend of technical discipline and a genuine creative eye. The objective remains consistent: to capture spaces and stories that are cinematic, clean, and—above all—professional.
This Is What I Do (The Studio Mission)
The mission of Flax Cove Studio is to provide architects, developers, and professionals with the tools to showcase their work at its highest level. Whether delivering a high-end architectural build, a cinematic drone sequence, or a series of executive portraits, the focus remains on the details that define a project: design, context, and personality. Fully certified, insured, and backed by thirty years of international experience, the studio serves as a reliable, seamless partner for clients who require excellence as the standard
Commercial, Editorial & Architectural Photography
With decades of experience across the commercial, editorial, and architectural sectors, the studio collaborates with brands, design firms, museums, and publications both within New Zealand and internationally. The approach combines narrative storytelling with cinematic visuals to produce imagery that connects instantly with audiences. From architectural interiors to environmental drone photography, every project is handled with the technical skill and creative vision required to ensure results are both authentic and world-class.
Professional imagery that tells a story
Awards, Exhibitions & Publications
The studio’s work is underpinned by a career of recognised excellence, notably including a featured exhibition at the Louvre in Paris as part of the SeeMe Exposure Award. Other highlights include winning the Nintendo Advertising Award, the Kodak Portraiture Award, and being named a finalist for the prestigious Observer Hodge and Thomas Gower Editorial Awards.
Further accolades include the AFAR Travel Award, 125Live Contemporary, and a career-long commitment to technical precision—including honors from the International Photography Awards (IPA) across Fine Art, Cultural, and Portrait categories. These achievements, coupled with gallery exhibitions across London, Bristol, and Aotearoa, ensure world-class, gallery-calibre results for every client
Award-Winning Photography, Global Reach
Trusted by Leading Brands & Clients
The studio’s portfolio is built on a foundation of trust with prestigious global brands and publications, including the BBC, The Guardian, LensCulture, and O’Neill. From international agency campaigns to local partnerships with firms like Bayleys, every project reflects a dedication to cinematic imagery and technical precision. Whether capturing high-end architecture, premium interiors, or editorial campaigns, this extensive experience informs every commission—ensuring visuals that communicate a space, brand, or lifestyle with world-class clarity and impact.
Experience, credibility, and storytelling in every project.
