FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
IN SWITZERLAND & PORTO

 timeless and natural photography for families

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PLAN YOUR SESSION

Most family photography is about looking at the camera and smiling. My work is about looking at each other and feeling.

For over 10 years, I have built my life between two homes: the refined, minimalist landscapes of Switzerland and the soulful, textured coast of Portugal. Living between Zurich/Zug and Porto has shaped how I see families — I bring Swiss precision to every session while embracing the warmth and spontaneity that Portuguese light seems to invite. I also understand, personally, what it means to build a home somewhere new while keeping loved ones close across the distance.

My approach is simple: create images that feel like your family actually feels. Not stiff poses in matching outfits. Not forced smiles that look the same as everyone else's photos. Real connection, genuine laughter, the small details that make your family uniquely yours.

YOUR ESSENCE

MY MISSION

PRESERVING YOUR FAMILY STORY

Pregnancy is such a brief season, and it deserves to be documented beautifully. Maternity photography gives you a way to honour this time—and share it with loved ones who may be following your journey from afar. I offer both outdoor maternity sessions that take advantage of Porto's beautiful light or Switzerland's stunning landscapes, and intimate in-home sessions for those who prefer a intimate feel.

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The first days with your baby are a blur of exhaustion and wonder. Newborn sessions are designed to be gentle for everyone—held in your home, with plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and simply being together. I capture both the posed portraits of your sleeping baby and the documentary moments: first sibling meetings, parents holding their newborn, the tiny details you'll want to remember when they're suddenly running around the house.

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Whether you're a family of three or a multi-generational gathering, family sessions are about capturing who you are right now. In Switzerland, I know the most beautiful locations around Zug, Zurich, and the surrounding cantons—from lakeside spots to mountain backdrops.

In Porto, we can meet in your favourite park, along the Douro River, at the beach, or in the comfort of your own home.

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First birthdays, baptisms, communions, graduations, anniversaries—these moments deserve more than smartphone photos. I provide photography for family celebrations and milestones, whether it's an intimate gathering at home or a larger event. My documentary approach means I capture the event as it unfolds while also creating intentional family portraits you'll treasure.

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Throughout the year, I offer limited-edition mini sessions timed around holidays and seasons—autumn colours, Christmas, spring blooms. These shorter sessions are perfect for families who want professional photos without the commitment of a full session, and they're ideal for holiday cards to send to loved ones around the world.

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YOUR Moments

FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES

LOCATIONS

WHERE I WORK

ZURICH

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ZUG

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PORTO

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Zug & Zurich, Switzerland

I have spent over 12+ years building my photography in Switzerland and continue to serve families there as part of my life between two countries. The community in Zug and Zurich is close-knit, and many of my clients have been with me for years—I have photographed their maternity sessions, their newborns, and now their children finishing school.

In Switzerland, I schedule sessions around the lake, in the old towns of Zug and Zurich, at Zurichsee locations, and at the private homes where families are most comfortable. If you are an established client or interested in booking a session during my time in Switzerland, reach out to get on the calendar.

Porto, Portugal

Porto has become home to a vibrant international community, and I'm proud to serve families from all backgrounds throughout the city and surrounding areas. The light here is extraordinary—golden afternoons that seem to last forever, soft coastal atmosphere, centuries-old architecture that provides stunning backdrops.

Popular session locations include Foz do Douro and its beaches, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, Serralves gardens, the historic Ribeira district, and private quintas throughout the Douro Valley. I also travel to Matosinhos, Gaia, Braga, and throughout northern Portugal.

KIND WORDS 

"Mary has been part of all our family milestones and it is so wonderful to have a familiar face take photos of my girls through the years (10+)! Not only is she able to capture our true personalities and in an easy manner, but she does it professionally, patiently and with care! Highly, highly recommend"

-Julie G.

"I have been working with Mary for many years and I can only say that she is amazing. When the kids were young, she alway made them feel comfortable and now they are teenagers she also meets them and still gets us the most amazing pictures. If you need a photographer don’t look further just book Mary."

-Charlotte B.

CLIENTS

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FAMILY photographer

about

more about

After booking your session, I will assist you with everything from what to wear to how to prepare your children. I am always available to answer questions and advise you on clothing: I want you to feel confident before the session.

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A relaxed, guided photography experience.

I use my 10+ years of  background to ensure you feel at ease, leading to natural expressions and genuine connection.

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In your gallery, you will find different kind of products, which can be delivered straight to your home or to your beloved ones.

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YOUR PROCESS

how it works

frequently asked questions

What is your photography style?

What is your photography style?

My photography style is best described as natural, elegant, and timeless. I believe family photos should still look beautiful in twenty years—not dated by heavy filters or trendy editing that ages quickly.

What does this look like in practice? Sessions that flow naturally rather than following a rigid shot list. Prompts and gentle direction that bring out authentic interaction rather than staged poses. A focus on connection—the way your partner looks at you when you're both laughing at something your toddler just did. The details: tiny fingers wrapped around yours, the serious concentration on your child's face as they explore, the chaos and beauty of ordinary moments.

I have developed techniques specifically for working with young children—I play games, I get silly, I let kids be kids. The result? Images where everyone looks relaxed because everyone actually was relaxed.

My editing is clean and bright, with true-to-life colours that preserve the warmth of golden hour and the soft light of an overcast day. No orange skin tones. No overly dramatic shadows. Just your family, looking like your family.

How far in advance should I book my family session?

How far in advance should I book my family session?

I recommend booking at least two to four months in advance, especially for weekend sessions and seasonal mini sessions which fill quickly. For newborn photography, reach out during your pregnancy so we can tentatively reserve your due date window.

What if my children won't cooperate during the session?

What if my children won't cooperate during the session?

After years of photographing children, I have developed an entire toolkit of games, prompts, and distractions. More importantly, I build flexibility into every session. Some of my favourite images come from moments of "chaos"—the toddler running away, the siblings arguing, the baby who refuses to sleep. Real life makes beautiful photos.

Do you travel for sessions?

Do you travel for sessions?

Yes. I split my time between Porto and Switzerland, serving families in both locations. In Switzerland, I photograph families in Zug, Zurich, and surrounding areas. In Portugal, I work throughout Porto and northern Portugal. For destination sessions elsewhere in Europe, please contact me to discuss arrangements.

Amazing photography starts with getting know each other. Take a moment to fill out my contact form, and let's get to planning your beautiful photo session!

i cannot wait to meet your family!

contact me

Amazing photography starts with getting know each other. Take a moment to fill out my contact form, and let's get to planning your beautiful photo session!

i cannot wait to meet your family!

contact me