Why me?

Why do people choose me?

  • Empathy & Understanding: I dive deep into understanding your kaupapa (purpose-principle). I understand your audience, and so I can ensure that every frame reflects your purpose.

  • Sustainability & Authenticity: As a passionate advocate - and sometimes activist - for environmental and social causes, I align all my mahi (work) with organisations striving to create positive change.

  • Artistry & Professionalism: With my experience in visual storytelling, guiding and supporting organisations from all over the world, I blend creativity with technical excellence to deliver stunning results.

What is my story?

Kia ora, greetings, I am Kai, a visual storyteller and founder of Subtledream Productions.

I partner with changemakers like you to amplify your voice. My passion lies in capturing the heart of every story—whether it’s a grassroots community project, a corporate mission, or a transformative event. From filming earthquake rebuild projects in the mountains of Nepal, to supporting students in the jungles of Ecuador, to documenting food resilience in the community gardens of Aotearoa New Zealand - you can count on me to capture the action, listen deeply, and help your vision reach a larger audience through the power of storytelling.

My dance with photography evolved alongside the innovation of digital technology. Pursuing full-time storytelling through the lens has been an adventure in self-discovery all its own, an unlearning, you could say, of who I “should be” and an acceptance of who I am.

I was born in Hong Kong and moved to California when I was 10. My Eastern parents praised Western careers in business, law, medicine or engineering. So, when I had my hands on my first digital camera at 14, I never thought this visual art form, wedged between tech and beauty, would become more than a hobby for me.

Throughout the next decade, I dabbled in the craft, took a photography class in high school, worked in graphic design, and started a photo club while in uni. I saved money to buy my first full-featured camera and started following professional photographers. Their lives were filled with travel, storytelling and advocacy. I never thought I had the capability of "making it" full-time - until - there was a pivot:

I got hired by my university to document campus events and conferences!

That’s when it began to “click”.
Could I build a viable life around my beloved hobby?

And so, I poured my heart and soul into visual art - and it poured heart and soul back into me.

In the 3 decades of playing with cameras, I dove into various topics, shooting weddings, aerials (drones), portraits, wildlife/nature, and of course, the impactful work that you can find now on my portfolio page.


All inclusive - I cater to your needs.

Audio, video and photo - in many projects, I am responsible for all technical aspects of the footage—lighting, equipment, directive, recording. I also offer scripting and production services, plus help with storyboards and creative brainstorming sessions.

I love using drones for video footage, as it’s a great way to capture the beauty of any natural environment - or the size of your event or gathering. Whether it’s a two-minute promo video or a short film with interviews, scripts, and a mixture of video and photos,

relax while I guide you how to achieve your specific goals.

I enjoy collaborating with grassroots movers and shakers who share my passion for environmental and food justice, community resilience, and reverence for Papatūānuku Mother Earth. I have worked in many sectors: international development, urban planning and transportation, permaculture, indigenous culture and wisdom, food systems, outdoor recreation, and youth education throughout the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.

Landscapes and languages may vary, but the universal principles of devotion, community, and love are the same. Since 2023, I live in Ōtautahi Christchurch in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand. I aim to inspire and build bridges between different cultures with my camera - and showcase how we look after our environment and each other.

Some examples from my portfolio, and recorded talks:

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Love listening? Check out my podcast!

And this is what I look like! Enjoy a tiny collection of me in front of - and behind - my beloved tools!
Thank you for being here - I can’t wait to tell your story!

Kai J. Lee