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Bora Bora sets the stage, I capture the emotion

Because extraordinary moments deserve extraordinary photos

Wedding

Portrait

Honeymoon

Fred Otantik

Capturing portraits, weddings, and honeymoons in the world’s most beautiful destination

O’Tantik Photo | Fine Art & Private Photographer | Bora Bora

My approach goes beyond simple photography—I create the visual storytelling of your journey

Authentic storytelling : I don’t ask you to pose, I invite you to live. By documenting your natural interactions, I weave a seamless narrative that reveals your genuine connection.
The aesthetics of memory : By blending the clarity of digital with the poetry of film grain, I give your story a cinematic and timeless dimension.
Capturing the rhythm of your emotions : From private villa moments to the vast turquoise lagoon. Each image is a key frame in your Polynesian chapter.

My favorite photograph? The one that will tell your story.

Together, let’s create the visual story of your precious moments in the heart of the Pacific.

Book now !

Your Questions, Answered :

What happens if it rains or the weather is overcast? ?

It’s the question everyone asks! Bora Bora’s tropical climate is unpredictable and fast-changing—a downpour can be intense but only last for a few minutes.

Flexibility first : My priority is the quality of your memories. If the forecast calls for heavy, nonstop rain, we’ll stay in close contact to reschedule the session for a better time slot (either the next day or later that day), based on our availability.
The secret of overcast days : Don’t fear the clouds! A cloudy sky acts like a giant natural softbox. Unlike harsh, direct sunlight that can cast deep shadows on faces, diffused light offers an incredibly soft look that is highly flattering for skin tones and creates very elegant pastel colors.
The tropical experience : Sometimes, capturing a few shots in a light drizzle or right after a shower offers unique reflections and a dramatic atmosphere that you would never get under a blazing sun.

Rest assured: we will never move forward with a session if the conditions won’t deliver the high-quality results you expect.

What are your rates for a session or a wedding ?

Every project is a unique story and deserves special attention. I review every inquiry individually to provide you with the most accurate and fair pricing :

Couple & Honeymoon Sessions : Whether you are celebrating your marriage or simply your love under the tropical sun, I create romantic, connected images that capture the essence of who you are together.
Family Sessions : From splashes and laughter in the lagoon to multi-generational portraits, I capture your family bonds in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The goal is to transform your trip into a visual legacy for you and your children.
Weddings & Elopements : From an intimate ceremony for two on a private motu to grand celebrations, I am by your side to document every moment of your commitment. Elopements require a different photographic approach—one rooted in documentary-style storytelling and spontaneous connection. My goal is to work with you to find the perfect package tailored to your exact expectations.

Please reach out and let me know what type of session you’re looking for so I can guide you toward the package that best fits your vision.

When is the best time of day for a photo session in Bora Bora ?

Choosing the right time is crucial because the light is what sculpts the image and brings out the lagoon’s vibrant glow. Here is a breakdown of what each moment of the day offers:

Morning Clarity (Between 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM) : This is the prime time to showcase Bora Bora’s famous shades of turquoise. With the sun high in the sky, the water becomes crystal clear and the colors of the lagoon truly pop. It’s the perfect moment for bright, high-contrast photos filled with energy.
The Softness of Late Afternoon (Starting at 4:00 PM) : The light begins to soften, taking on beautiful golden tones. This is the most flattering time for portraits, as shadows become less harsh. The atmosphere turns more intimate and peaceful—perfect for couples or maternity sessions.
The Magic of Golden Hour (Sunset) : A fleeting and spectacular moment when the sky often paints itself in shades of orange, pink, or purple. Mount Otemanu stands out as a dramatic silhouette against a fiery horizon. This is the ultimate choice for a romantic, cinematic vibe.
“Cooler Morning for Families : For sessions with young children, I often recommend the early morning. The heat is still manageable and the light is already beautiful, which helps keep the little ones awake and smiling throughout the entire experience.

My Pro Tip : It all depends on your personal style. Do you prefer the brilliance of crystal-blue water or the warmth of a setting sun? Together, we’ll choose the perfect time based on where you are staying and how the sun hits your bungalow, beach, or motu.

Are you located in Bora Bora to take our photos?

Yes, I live year-round on the ‘Pearl of the Pacific.’ Being a local photographer is a major asset for your session, and it changes everything about your experience :

An Intimate Knowledge of the Island : Living here allows me to know the very best spots, from the most famous beaches to the most secret, untouched corners far from the crowds. I know exactly how the light hits every motu at any given hour of the day.
Total Weather Flexibility : Since I am right here on the island, we can be extremely agile. If an unexpected tropical shower pops up, it is much easier for me to reschedule your session to the next available slot to guarantee you get a perfect sky.
Zero Travel Fees : Unlike vendors traveling from other islands, you don’t have to cover any transportation or accommodation costs (flights/hotels) for me. I simply meet you right at your resort or at our agreed-upon meeting spot on the lagoon.
A Strong Local Network: Being here every day allows me to work closely with top local partners, including boat captains, hotel concierges, and florists. This makes it incredibly easy to coordinate any special requests or unique touches for your shoot.

The Local Advantage: Choosing a resident photographer guarantees peace of mind and a level of on-the-ground expertise that only a Bora Bora local can provide.

What can we actually expect during a photo shoot with you ?

My mission is to ensure your shoot is an enjoyable experience—one that is just as unforgettable as the final photographs. I’ll be by your side throughout the process so you can stay fully present, stress-free, and enjoy every moment :

Welcome & Settling In : We begin with an informal conversation to break the ice. I’ll explain the flow of our session and ensure you feel entirely relaxed and confident in our beautiful location.
Real-Time Sharing : Throughout the shoot, I’ll regularly show you the photos right on my camera screen. This is a great opportunity for you to see how everything is looking in real time, giving you instant reassurance on your poses and a boost of confidence for the rest of the session.
Gentle & Natural Posing : Don’t worry about how to pose! I will give you simple, playful directions. My approach is all about keeping you moving to avoid that stiff, ‘frozen’ look, allowing us to capture your true, spontaneous self.
Pacing the Shoot : Our time together blends natural portraits with spontaneous, candid captures. When it’s time for drone photography, I select the absolute best moment for those sweeping views, making sure it integrates smoothly into the shoot while keeping the mood relaxed and intimate.
Listening & Adapting : Every couple and every family is unique. I stay highly attentive to your wishes throughout our entire time together. If you have a specific idea or a last-minute request, we will naturally weave it into the session.
Immersive Storytelling: During the session, I look for the ‘common thread’ of your connection. From that very first glance to a spontaneous laugh by the water’s edge, I use storytelling techniques so your final gallery isn’t just a collection of isolated photos, but a living documentary that tells the story of who you truly are.

My Philosophy: A successful session is meant to be a joyful escape. Seeing the magic come to life on my screen from the very first minutes, you will quickly forget about the camera and simply live in the joy of your Bora Bora moment.

How would you describe your photography style and signature ?

My style draws its roots from the world of analog photography. This foundation in imagery—centered around patience and observation—shaped a distinct visual signature that I transpose today into my sessions here in Bora Bora :

Organic Color Grading : My editing process is directly inspired by the look and feel of traditional film. I place a high priority on soft contrasts and deep blacks. Unlike ‘clinical’ digital images, my photos possess a rich texture and a more subtle color palette
True-to-Life Skin Tones : The greatest legacy of film photography is the pursuit of perfect skin tones. I ensure your skin retains its natural warmth under the tropical sun, avoiding the artificial color distortions often caused by modern digital sensors.
Intentional Photography : My background in film taught me the art of patience rather than rapid-fire shooting. Every frame is deeply intentional. I carefully compose each image, waiting for the precise second where light and genuine emotion come together
Timeless Grain : I love infusing my images with a subtle, poetic grain that evokes the travel photography of yesteryear. The result is a timeless image that bypasses fleeting trends, capable of passing through decades without losing its elegance.
Visual Storytelling : My approach goes far beyond simply taking photos; I craft a true narrative of your experience. Each session is designed like a chapter in your personal story, where the composition and flow of the images create a fluid, cohesive, and emotionally rich narrative.

In Summary : I leverage modern digital technology to deliver a film-inspired, ‘Fine Art’ aesthetic. You get the flexibility of a contemporary shoot combined with the timeless charm and sophistication of a vintage photograph.

Do you provide aerial drone coverage and video sequences ?

Absolutely. To complement your photography, I can integrate a stunning aerial dimension into your session. As a certified drone pilot, I handle this service from start to finish to ensure a seamless and spectacular experience :

A Fully Licensed & Compliant Pilot : Drone flights in Bora Bora are strictly regulated by law. I hold all the necessary legal certifications and insurance. I personally handle all authorization requests with civil aviation and the resorts, ensuring you are completely safe and compliant. Please note: sessions involving drone coverage must be booked at least 10 days in advance.
Video Clip Captures : In addition to photography, I can capture video sequences both from the drone and on the ground. These moving snippets of life create a dynamic keepsake that perfectly complements your photo gallery.
Preserving Your Privacy : Because I manage both the drone and the camera myself, you won’t have an entire crew surrounding you. This keeps the atmosphere intimate and relaxed—which is essential for capturing natural photos—while still allowing you to enjoy breathtaking, sweeping views of the lagoon.
The Lagoon from an Epic Perspective : The drone is an essential tool for revealing the vast turquoise waters and hidden sandbars that you would never suspect from the shore. It is the signature visual touch that adds a prestigious, high-end dimension to your Bora Bora memories.

The Advantage for You : A single expert contact for your photography, drone footage, and video. You enjoy a premium, high-end service without the hassle of managing multiple vendors during your stay.

How long does it take to get our photos, and in what format?

Finishing your images is a process I approach with the highest level of rigor. Each photograph delivered is crafted with absolute precision. Here is what you can expect for the delivery of your collection:

A Meticulous Selection Process : Following your shoot, I handpick each photograph, keeping only the finest moments. I look for the exact frames where light, composition, and raw emotion align beautifully.
Handcrafted Post-Processing : Every single photograph is edited individually to receive my signature analog look. This meticulous post-production work ensures absolute consistency throughout your gallery and preserves the natural beauty of your skin tones.
Timely Delivery : To maintain my high ‘Fine Art’ standards, your finalized gallery will be delivered within 1 to 3 weeksof your shoot. This window allows me to perfect every technical detail without compromise.
A Private Online Gallery : You will receive a link to a secure, elegant gallery that is easy to share with your loved ones. Your photos will be available for download in high resolution (perfect for premium quality prints) as well as web-optimized formats for your social media.
Secure Cloud Storage : Your online gallery remains accessible for several months, giving you total peace of mind to download your memories from anywhere in the world.

The Value of High Resolution : Moving far beyond the limitations of smartphone snapshots, my high-res digital files give you the freedom to print large wall art or design professional-grade photo albums, all while maintaining absolute, flawless quality.

How do the booking and payment processes work ?

To help you plan your trip to Bora Bora with total peace of mind, I have established a clear and professional booking process :

A Personalized Consultation : It all begins with a conversation. Together, we will determine the perfect date, the ideal time of day, and the style of session that truly reflects who you are. This is also the perfect opportunity to answer any remaining questions you may have.
Secure Digital Contracting : Once the details are finalized, I will send you a digital service contract. This document clearly outlines my commitments, our inclement weather policies, and the usage rights for your images.
Securing Your Date with a Retainer : Your time slot is officially locked into my calendar upon signing the contract and receiving a deposit (typically 50%). This guarantees my exclusive availability for your session.
Convenient & Secure Payments : To make the process as easy as possible, I accept bank wire transfers and credit card payments through a fully secured platform, catering perfectly to global travelers.
The Remaining Balance : Final payment is typically due a few days before your session or on the day of the shoot, depending on the terms outlined in our contract.

My Commitment to You : As a professional resident photographer, my contract guarantees a premium service from start to finish. This formal framework offers the ultimate peace of mind for the protection of your keepsakes.

What measures do you take to protect my personal data and privacy ?

Having regularly served high-profile personalities and high-net-worth clients, protecting your privacy is my utmost priority. My approach is crafted to deliver premium luxury with absolute discretion :

Image Rights & Strict Confidentiality : By default, none of your photos will ever be published on my website, social media, or marketing materials without your prior written consent. If you require absolute privacy, we can officially guarantee it in our contract.
Secure Data Protection : Every gallery is fully password-protected and hosted on encrypted servers. Access is strictly limited to you and anyone you explicitly share the private link with.
A Low-Profile Presence: I know exactly how to blend into your environment. My equipment is compact and silent, allowing me to capture the true essence of your stay without turning your vacation into a busy film set.
Anonymity & Luxury Concierge Coordination : If you are traveling under a pseudonym or booking through a private concierge service, I strictly adhere to these communication protocols to guarantee your complete anonymity from initial contact to final delivery.
100% In-House Production : From capturing the shot to the final retouching, I personally manage the entire creative pipeline. Your private collection remains strictly with me, with absolutely no third-party involvement or external outsourcing

My Commitment : To give you the peace of mind you need to truly be yourselves, with the absolute assurance that your intimacy remains strictly within your private circle of family and friends

Are you available for travel to other islands like Tahiti, Moorea, Taha’a, or Tetiaroa ?

Absolutely. While I am based in Bora Bora, my passion for photography takes me wherever your story unfolds. I regularly travel throughout the archipelago to capture my clients’ Polynesian adventures :

Island-Wide Availability : From the rugged beauty of Moorea and the exclusive luxury of Tetiaroa to the authentic spirit of Taha’a and the dynamic energy of Tahiti, I seamlessly travel to your location to create a bespoke photography experience.
Seamless Logistics : I handle all of my own travel arrangements. Being well-versed in inter-island flights and transfers, I adapt entirely to your itinerary so that your photoshoot integrates effortlessly into your vacation plans.
The Multi-Island Narrative : For guests looking to capture the full scope of their getaway, I provide multi-destination lifestyle coverage. This ensures a beautifully consistent visual story across every island you visit, maintained by a singular creative vision.
Local Insider Expertise : Each island has its own unique light and hidden secrets. My intimate knowledge of French Polynesia allows me to guide you to the absolute best locations—whether under the dramatic peaks of Moorea or on the deserted sandbars of Taha’a.
Fully Equipped & Mobile : My gear—including high-end cameras, drones, and lighting accessories—is completely optimized for travel. I guarantee the exact same premium quality and safety standards, backed by full drone certifications, across all the Society Islands.

Why It Works for You : Retaining a single photographer for your entire trip ensures perfect aesthetic harmony throughout your collection and allows us to build a seamless, comfortable working relationship.