Dakota Brown Photography
Landscape and commercial photographer
Words by Jane Brown
If you asked Dakota what photography meant to him he would probably say, "I enjoy the technical aspect of photography and enjoy shooting in black and white" It's a simple answer from someone with natural talent and the ability to capture vibrant and creative images.
Truth be told, Dakota is incredibly modest and humble about his work.
Dakota's love for all things camera-related started nearly 10 years ago while he was in camera sales, and he began to learn everything he could about the craft. His technical knowledge is truly remarkable and it's evident in the execution of his work. Dakota's has been recognised locally as well as internationally for his photography. In 2017 he was the featured photographer in the Invercargill City Council calendar which boasted 13 of his images. The I.C.C also worked with Dakota on the Invercargill branding project and other imagery at the Invercargill Airport. Dakota has also won a silver award in the 2021 Asia Pacific Photography Awards.
Dakota is most comfortable shooting in black and white for several reasons. The first is aesthetic - he enjoys the way the light and shadows are interpreted in black and white. There is a simplicity to the tonal variation as opposed to colour. And the other reason is that he is colourblind! Now you may be wondering how he sees colour. Well, for Dakota everything is less saturated - think dull/muted tones instead of bright/vibrant hues. While it makes sense for him to love black and white photography, he captures colours in a magically unique way.
Dakota is also a well-regarded videographer in the Southland region.
He enjoys sharing his knowledge and skills with fellow enthusiasts and professionals. Dakota has a young family, two daughters that will grow up with beautiful baby photos - even if they are sick of their Dad always pestering them to pose for a snap!