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.

Three years of wonder.

It was strange, because when you were in my belly, I could describe you to your daddy. I would tell him about your temper, and your will, about your nature. You were so clear to me. We joked that it wasn't a baby in there, but rather four spidermonkeys playing the violin, and in a way, funnily, we were right. When you came out into this world, of course with great speed, the feeling I had about you was confirmed. Your personality shines through with such force, you are powerful, you are independent, you are nuts, so funny, so strong and wild. You draw the line around yourself with great visibility, and you never let anyone step on you. Sometimes it's challenging to be your parent, because we have to really think, we have to be clever with you, but in times of frustration, I always think of how great it is, your strength and the way you look out for yourself. Those things will be invaluable when you step out into the wilderness of the world. You'll be alright.
Watching you grow has been an adventure. Three years have passed, and when I look at photos of these times, I feel sadness for the moments gone. And then I think of you in the future, and I'm too curious to be sad anymore, because being on this journey with you is one of the greatest privileges of our lives.
Freja, you are a wonder, I can not believe how lucky I am to be your mother. Happy birthday! DSC_0097

It's hard work having your birthday.

Two years ago today: