The Viva Guest Edit: NZFW, presented by Zeekr, hands over the reins to industry insiders who are taking over Viva this week. They’ll be sharing their thoughts, experiences and opinions as they take part in the biggest week in NZ fashion.
Today, we welcome Guy Coombes to the Guest Edit
chair.
Coombes is an award-winning photographer, working across major fashion and beauty editorial and commercial campaigns. He has worked with Viva for more than a decade, creating high-impact cover photos, fashion shoots and more.
Coombes spoke with Viva’s Ashleigh Cometti from Okahu on Tāmaki Drive after he shot the behind-the-scenes action at the highly anticipated Zambesi off-site show.
Guy Coombes captured the behind-the-scenes and backstage action at Zambesi’s Song to the Siren off-site show for New Zealand Fashion Week on August 21. Photo / Guy Coombes
A fisherman (centre) poses with Zambesi models at the end of Ōkahu Bay wharf. Photo / Guy Coombes
Ashleigh Cometti: What was it like capturing the models for Zambesi’s show today?
Guy Coombes: It was so beautiful. I was right down the end of the wharf with the fishermen and this beautiful sunshine. It was great, no complaints.
How has your experience of NZFW 2026 been different to previous years?
Every year is honestly so different. When I was starting my career a long time ago, I used to shoot a lot of backstage and social images at all the shows. It’s a really tiring job, long days and quick image turnarounds, more than ever now with social media and those instant demands. I do a lot less of it these days, but am always happy to jump in if a specific designer asks, like today with Zambesi.
NZFW continues to evolve year after year. What’s something you’d like to see at NZFW in 2027?
I think NZFW is in a good place, and the organisers are doing a great job. What I’d really like to see is the economy turn around, and more designers be able to do shows and be involved in a bigger way. I’m sure it’s something many designers would love to do, but probably just can’t justify financially.
Have you noticed any fresh faces on the runway this year that you’d be excited to shoot?
Yes, always. One of the biggest reasons I like attending the shows is seeing models walk, who stands out, it’s like a big casting for me and who I might like to be booking for shoots.
Model Alex Cater, who was Viva Guest Editor on Day 3 of NZFW, in hair and makeup for Zambesi’s Song to the Siren show. Photo / Guy Coombes
How do you ensure you create a well-lit backstage shooting area without taking up too much room when you’ve got models, makeup artists, hairstylists and designers all competing for space?
This is always a big challenge, because every backstage is different. For example, today our backstage is in a kitchen, and it’s a really small space. Space is usually a luxury, so it’s best to keep things minimal and portable so you can work with what you’ve been given.
How do you navigate the business of capturing the models before they hit the runway? Do you thrive in the fast-paced energy backstage?
I’ll usually get plenty of time to shoot the hair and makeup process. It’s when the models get dressed right before they walk that things get chaotic, as there is not a lot of time and they are being pulled in for touch-ups and things, so you just have to be fast and not get in the way.
Guy Coombes says he tries to be fast and not get in the way when shooting backstage. Photo / Guy Coombes
How long do you have between shows to turn around imagery? What’s that process like?
These days it’s pretty instant. Everyone always wants to be the first to get a social media post up, so it’s a race. Today I was the only backstage photographer, so I will be turning the images around straight after this interview to send out to media.
Photographer Guy Coombes.
Guy Coombes’ Fast 5 Faves
You’ve had a really early start this morning. How did you begin your day?
I can’t even remember. It was like 4.30am. That alarm went off, it’s all a blur. There was definitely coffee involved, but it was too early to get one anywhere, so I had to DIY.
What is your favourite way to unwind after a fashion show?
I’ve definitely got to get into bed and probably listen to one of my crime or paranormal podcasts… I weirdly find them very soothing.
What is your favourite beauty or grooming product that you love to have with you when you’re shooting?
Okay, honest answer, probably like a body wash wipe. Because there is honestly nothing better than a little freshen up on the go.
You’re known for always wearing your signature beanie, but have you got any other favourite accessories that you like to wear day to day?
I’m a hat guy because I got to hide the head. But I do love a belt. A belt is a great way to add something to something, you know? I have this amazing Western belt that I picked up in California from this brand from Texas actually, so it’s proper rodeo style.
Who is your favourite fashion content creator?
I don’t follow a lot, but I do follow all the local guys. And I love Ariane and Estelle Schuler because they’re so unhinged and that’s just right up my alley.
Estelle Schuler with her amazing bleached brows.
Come at me with your brows any day, Estelle.
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