Welcome to Nicholas Charles Photography and The Light Lab, my photography studio located in Tauranga’s Historic Village. 

The Light Lab is a collaborative project with The Incubator Creative Hub, offering affordable studio and equipment hire for photographers, content creators, artists, and other digital creatives. Whether you’re a student taking your first steps or an experienced professional looking for a well-equipped space, The Light Lab provides a welcoming environment to create, experiment, and grow. 

Alongside studio hire, I offer photography courses, workshops, and one-to-one tuition for individuals and groups. With many years of experience in arts education—including design, sculpture, and photography—I believe learning should be practical, supportive, and enjoyable. 

At the heart of my work is photographing people. 

From professional headshots and personal branding to fashion and beauty, family portraits, and corporate or community events, my focus is on creating authentic images through genuine connection. Great photography begins with good communication. By building a relaxed relationship with every client, I capture natural moments that tell a story and create images that resonate with both the subject and the viewer. 

Photography is, quite simply, the art of capturing light. Using both studio flash and continuous lighting, I shape and control light to create images with depth, mood, and impact. Whether we’re working in the studio or on location, I bring the experience and portable equipment needed to achieve professional results in almost any environment. 

I chose Tauranga’s Historic Village as the home of The Light Lab not only because it’s a vibrant creative community, but because it also offers a wonderful variety of outdoor locations. Its character, architecture, and atmosphere provide an incredibly versatile backdrop for portraits, fashion, branding, and commercial photography. 

Whether you’re looking for a photographer, a creative studio space, or an opportunity to develop your photography skills, I’d love to hear from you. 

Get in touch and let’s see what develops.