Based in Paderborn, I create natural, emotive family photos and homestorys. Relaxed sessions that capture real moments and lasting memories for families.
As a wedding and family photographer based in Paderborn, my focus is on capturing authentic moments, genuine emotion and the small gestures that make family life unique. My family photography is calm, heartfelt and unobtrusive — I favour documentary-style homestorys, relaxed outings and everyday scenes because those are the moments that become lasting memories. I believe great family photos come from closeness, patience and a feel for timing rather than staged poses. My approach is friendly and relaxed: I take the time to get to know you, create a comfortable atmosphere and accompany your session with sensitivity. Families with young children often appreciate my calm manner and experience in capturing natural reactions — without pressure, with gentle prompts and a sense of play. My work as a wedding photographer has honed my ability to read emotions and tell stories visually. I bring that storytelling sensibility into family sessions: searching out the quiet moments between the big events, recording touches, glances and spontaneous laughter, and shaping them into a cohesive gallery that shows your relationships as they truly are. How we work together: we usually start with a brief conversation to choose the right location and time — whether at home, in a park or during a family outing. On the day I focus on creating a relaxed mood, offer light guidance when needed and often work with natural light. You’ll receive the finished images carefully edited in an online gallery, ready to share and preserve. If you want family photos that feel real, timeless and full of feeling, I’d love to meet you. I photograph families in Paderborn, Bielefeld, Detmold and the surrounding area. Warmly, Maria Athens