I’M MARIANA, THE HEART AND EYES BEHIND THE LENS!
I’M MARIANA, THE HEART AND EYES BEHIND THE LENS!
I was born and raised in Brazil, in a house where photography was part of everyday life. My dad was a photographer and ran a photo lab, so some of my earliest memories involve film rolls, prints drying, and images coming to life in trays. That world quietly shaped me long before I realised photography would become my own language too.
When I was 19, my dad gave me my first Canon. From there, I explored photography in many forms and many places. I studied photography professionally in Brazil, then kept practising wherever God took me. From documenting weddings in Hawai‘i, to creating large-scale exhibitions in Aotearoa focused on social impact and belonging. Alongside photography, I work with the Red Cross, supporting refugee families as they settle into life in New Zealand. That work has deeply shaped how I see people, resilience, and the importance of telling stories with care.
Recently, my family and I bought a farm! Life has slowed in the best way. Mornings start with fog, muddy boots, animals in the background, and space to breathe. This season is inviting me to explore photography in a more grounded way. Less performance, more presence.
Less perfection, more truth.
I’m drawn to real moments and natural light. The kind that unfolds when people feel safe, seen, and unhurried. Sessions are now relaxed and honest, often photographed on farms, in homes, or in beautiful rural locations across Hawke's Bay, Tararua, Manawatū, Wairarapa and surroundings.
If you’re here, I’m glad you found your way!
I was born and raised in Curitiba and still speak Portuguese at home with my four kids and my husband, who I’ve been married to for 20 years. We also lived in Oahu for a season, where my girls were born. Aloha will always be part of our story. These days, we’ve swapped city life for gumboots after buying a small farm in Dannevirke. It’s a big shift, but I’m really loving the slower pace and the beauty of life out here.
My faith is a big part of my life. Over time, I came to deeply value the rhythm of rest God designed for us, six days of work and one day set aside for rest and remembering Him. Because of that, I don’t take bookings from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. It’s my way of honouring God and protecting time with my family. And honestly, it’s been such a gift for my creativity and wellbeing too.
Alongside my photography, I also work with Red Cross New Zealand, coordinating volunteers who support Latin American refugee families settling in Levin. It’s work that’s close to my heart. Through this role, I’ve been able to create several photography exhibitions within that space, which has been super meaningful. If you’re interested in that side of my work, you can visit my Exhibitions page.
1 / 3
"We had a lovely family beach shoot with Mariana. She kept things relaxed and fun, and guided us so we didn’t feel awkward in front of the camera. The sun was pretty harsh on the day and we were squinting hard, but Mariana was super understanding and even offered another session. We’re so happy with the final photos!"
1 / 3
2 / 3
"My photoshoot with Mariana for our college ball night was epic! She made us feel totally relaxed and turned the evening into something magical. The golden sunset and my mate's classic ride made it feel like we were in a movie. The photos turned out incredible, making us look like we were celebrities for the night. Highly recommend Mariana for capturing special moments!"
2 / 3
3 / 3
"My maternity photoshoot with Mariana at the river was incredible! Even though I was quite advanced in my pregnancy, I had so much fun and the experience was filled with laughter. Getting in the water was intense but totally worth it. The photos turned out beautifully, capturing my emotions perfectly. Mariana is fantastic at what she does- I wholeheartedly recommend her!"
3 / 3