Hiya, we are Lizzie and SallyMay.


Between us we are mums to 6 kids, friends and the creative team behind Kowhai + Thistle Photography


Lizzie Gilmour is an internationally recognised multi-award winning photographer based in Hurworth, Taranaki. NZIPP Wedding-in-Camera Photographer of the Year 2021. Associate member of NZIPP, NZIPP Master with Distinction. Sony Digital Imaging Advocate.


SallyMay Hopper is an international award-winning photographer and studied at Elam School of Fine Arts, University of Auckland. BFA.

Love Notes From Our Clients

“The photos are fantastic. You caught our essence. I saw them, and of course, I cried. The photos brought to me beautiful memories of the best day ever. Thanks for your beautiful work. We loved it.”

“Wow! We love them so much. We both had happy tears and the biggest smiles on our faces looking through these photos.

They're so natural and so us! You've really captured the essence of our family. How you both capture moments like that is something else, a true art.

We will treasure these photos forever.”

“Awww SallyMay and Lizzie - you guys nailed it!!! All puns intended. These are awesome!”

“OMG!!! How did you make us all look sooooooo good? They are the most beautiful photos and we are absolutely overwhelmed thankyou so very much.”

“Fantastic photographers. Not only took heaps of wonderful photos but also helped on the day in so many ways, from pinning on button holes to helping put fascinators on. Two lovely ladies.”