A mother of four, photographer, nature lover. Someone trying to make sense of it all, through photos and stories.

I try to be free in all senses of the word, so I made the leap and now work with what I love doing; taking pictures, storing this life in moments, both for myself and for clients. My heart is in photographing birth and motherhood, but I take on just about any photography job.
(See my birth photos at www.birth.no and the rest of my work portfolio at www.mariavatne.no.)

I live on a farm in Norway with my man Nik and my children Ronja, Freja, Falk and Ulv, plus a bunch of animals. We grow our own food as far as the seasons allow it, we don't go to kindergarten, the three youngest ones will be homeschooled.

We govern our own lives, we strive for independence, we want to be in this life wild and free and full of love.

Apr 13

Apr 13 Seven springs.

Maria Vatne

Dear magical being,

Now you are seven, seven springs old. So full of colour, of zest, of strength and sensitivity, so funny and smart. You are still the wildcat I described while you were in my womb, and I applaud that, your craziness. And now, as you grow into a big girl, there are new sides opening up. A sense of stillness, the way you immerse yourself in books. The responsibility you take for your siblings. Your understanding of diplomacy and how to communicate when things are difficult. Your understanding of the world. It is magical and fascinating to see you grow.

Being with you is such an amazing journey, I am so lucky to be a part of it.

Love you more than the universe, my Freja! Happy birthday!

(click on the images to see them big)