Who I Am

 ​

My name is Martina and I’m an Abu Dhabi–based lifestyle photographer drawn to natural light, honest connection, and the beauty of real, unposed moments. With a warm personality and a deep love for children (I have two of my own), I create a space where families feel relaxed and seen. Photography has always been more than a craft for me - it’s a way to slow down, notice the magic in the everyday, and turn it into something everlasting. 

​

My Background

 

I picked up a camera when my first baby was just a few months old - what began as therapy and meditation slowly became a passion that shaped my life. I founded Mia Matei Photography in 2018, and for years I’ve had the privilege of capturing precious memories for families all across the UAE. My work is inspired by natural light, the poetry of ordinary moments, and the kind of storytelling that feels intimate, timeless, and true.

​

My Approach

 

My sessions are relaxed, child-led, and rooted in authenticity. I guide gently when needed, but I never force moments that don’t feel natural. Kids set the pace, parents settle into the moment, and together we create space for genuine emotion to unfold. This is where the real magic happens - the laughter, the quiet cuddles, the fleeting glances, the love that deserves to be remembered just as it is.

I’m here to capture your family’s story in the most honest and beautiful way possible - full of light, movement, and the connection that makes you you.