Meet Pia Photo

Pia is a wedding and elopement photographer based in New Zealand, originally from Mexico. Moving to New Zealand at the age of 11, she grew up balancing her roots and her dreams, eventually stepping into the world of photography.

Pia’s journey to going solo began when she started her career as part of a duo, finding comfort in the shared responsibility. Over time, Pia made the bold and life-changing decision to go solo. This wasn’t just about business; it was about embracing her individuality, creativity, and the courage to stand out.

I still remember the very first call I had with Pia. I was living in the tiny house we had in Melbourne, tucked behind a café, and Pia was going through a bit of a tough time. I remember feeling so grateful that she trusted me enough to help her navigate it. What stood out to me from day one was her mindset — even though she was facing challenges, she was so positive and ready for change. Pia wasn’t playing the victim; she was ready to take action and move forward. That kind of resilience is rare, and it’s exactly why I knew she was going to create something incredible.

Pia has always been a big part of the New Zealand photography community. In the Business Map community, she’s consistently active and always willing to help others. It’s something I’ve always admired about her — her success isn’t just about what she’s built for herself, but about how she shows up for others. She’s become a source of inspiration and support for so many.

I finally got to meet Pia in person at my Unrealistic Workshop in Los Angeles. She flew all the way from New Zealand just to attend — which speaks volumes about her dedication to her business and to the photography community. Seeing her in that room, so engaged and committed to growing, was a full-circle moment. It reminded me how much of a difference it makes when you trust yourself enough to step into the unknown and chase your dreams.

Pia’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, proving that the most transformative growth comes when you step out of your comfort zone and trust in your unique path.

How Did Pia Do It?

1. Overcoming Tall Poppy Syndrome:
Pia recognised that her fear of standing out and being different was holding her back. Through conversations with a close friend and the insights she gained from the Six-Figure Business Map, she shifted her mindset: “I didn’t want to get to the end of my life and realize I missed out because I was too afraid of sticking out and being different.”

2.Embracing Creativity and Risk:
Pia let go of the idea of security and stability, focusing instead on freedom and the joy of creating. She realized that failure is a natural part of the journey and stopped letting the fear of “what if” control her decisions.

3.Living in the Present:
By practicing gratitude and staying present, Pia learned to appreciate the small moments that make life magical. She began to pause, reflect on her progress, and embrace the beauty of her current path: “Don’t strive for half your life. Stop, look back, and take in the amazing view.”

4.Surrendering to the Process:
Pia found purpose in the act of dreaming and showing up every day, rather than solely focusing on achieving specific goals. She embraced life’s surprises and adapted to change, believing that life is always working for you.

Pia’s Biggest Wins

• Achieving Six Figures in Seven Months: Pia’s rapid financial growth is a testament to the effectiveness of the Six-Figure Business Map and her dedication.
  
  
• International Opportunities: She is now booking international shoots, including an upcoming wedding in Paris.
  
  
• Recognition and Features: Pia’s work has been highlighted in Together Journal, Hello May, and other respected outlets, elevating her profile as a sought-after photographer.
  
  
• Record-Breaking Bookings: She has more weddings booked for the upcoming summer than ever before.

Interview with Pia

• What are a few of the goals/wins you’ve celebrated in 2024? Anything that you’re extra proud of and excited to share with folks.

2024 was a big year of change – I got hit with some rough health news that make me reassess all of my priorities in life…allowing myself to show more of my creativity and style. I realised wanting to please the masses was limiting me…The liberating truth I realised is that evolution is intrinsic for me and my couples LOVE that evolution! I focused more into building those relationships truly and wholeheartedly accepting my full self equally and that was the best! That realisation was the biggest win because it reminded me I am definitely a photographer who prefers to build relationships rather than just be more separated and my creativity lies in my WHOLE life being in harmony. If I am healthy, my biz (and all my other businesses & life areas) will be too. Health is the bedrock to it all.

• How has your biz changed since that initial interview with Morgan a few years back? Are there any major changes (mindset or practical) that you can point to that you’ve implemented since that time?

SO MUCH! Definitely a new found confidence in my style, tone, taste, curation and niching into my brand and style which has welcomed in more couples who align with my values. Back then. I had 4-5 client avatars and one high-end “dream” one I didn’t think I could ever reach and now, the 4-5 are not relevant and I’m all in on the dream one. Realising the power of curation was also a huge catalyst and general life experience has fed a lot of growth into my business, how I do things, what I say yes and no to. Practically, I now only limit to 20 weddings per season, have fuller season in USA and EU, have been featured in dream publications and reached higher financial goals (while retaining my sanity which I didn’t think possible lol) than when I was doing 60-70 weddings per season.

• What are some of the goals that you’re looking forward to that are on the horizon right now? (Anything is great, within this next year, five years, etc. we’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up!).

Growing in the Europe and USA wedding space, planning to eventually live 80% of my time there. I also have goals to grow my editorial and fashion side which I love, spend more time with family and find my tribe and start a magazine! which has been a lifelong dream I feel I can do now 🙂

What We Learnt From Pia

New Zealand Wedding Photographer Pia’s Journey to Going Solo is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about achieving—it’s about the courage to try, the resilience to keep going, and the ability to find magic in the present moment.

Her message is clear:

“Life isn’t against you—it’s for you. Trust in the process, embrace the surprises, and don’t forget to stop and take in the view along the way.”

Pia’s story inspires creatives to overcome fear, take risks, and show up for their dreams every single day.

Do you want to learn more about Pia Bacino?

Check out her website here, follow her on Instagram here

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