“I discovered Mariana’s work with the idea of giving myself something different to celebrate my 30th birthday. The goal was indeed to celebrate, because like many women who seek out this photographer’s work, I was (and still am—I believe we always are, actually) in a process of transformation in many ways. And I feel that being photographed through the lens of this incredible woman aligns with the desires, struggles, dreams, frustrations, and triumphs that shape our journeys as women.
My photoshoot experience echoes the testimonials already shared here: being able to be myself, accepting who I am, being less critical and harsh with myself, looking at my body and my image with kindness. It was a process of self-reflection, of learning to forgive myself, to allow myself, and above all, to love myself. And yes, in its deepest essence, it was about female empowerment—and why not, feminism?
I could go on writing about all of this, but what truly connected me to Mariana Beltrame was her sensitivity, her art. The photos speak for themselves—the way she sees so many women through her lens and reveals a beauty in us that we may never have imagined ourselves.
At first, it was the photos that caught my attention (which, in a literal sense, might be considered the “sellable” part of it all). But what truly convinced me to have this unique experience were the details—the little things that often go unnoticed. The details enchanted me and made me admire this incredible photographer even more.
Experiencing a photoshoot like this, beyond making us feel beautiful (even with that little voice of self-criticism whispering “despite this or that…”), is also about knowing that behind the camera is a woman who shares the same struggles as all of us. A woman who saw in her art not just a profession but a true way of sharing (a word so widely used nowadays). A woman who welcomes each client with warmth and details that go beyond photography—from a simple “welcome” sign with your name on it to those so-called “minor” details that, to me, are grand, rich, and meaningful: a kind word, a joke, little snacks, heartfelt conversations, and even just the opportunity to take a pause from our busy lives to celebrate who we are and our unique stories. To feel proud of ourselves.
Mariana’s photos captivated me, as they have many others. But what also enchanted me was the woman behind the camera and how she makes these photos even more beautiful—through her kindness, her relentless pursuit of showcasing the beauty of every woman she photographs, and even through the thoughtful and opinionated texts she posts alongside her images (something increasingly rare, especially in a digital world so focused on the visual).
As I stood in front of the camera in a completely new experience for me—one that I enjoyed every second of—I watched Mariana tirelessly search for the perfect light, the right pose, the right gesture, the right gaze. I saw her trying to read who I was through her lens. She is a relentless artist, deeply engaged in the creative process, celebrating with us at every captured moment, at every spark of self-discovery she helps unveil.
I think I connected with Mariana through her art. And I believe her art connected with mine (it’s hard for us to admit we’re artists, but we are). I chose to sing, to embrace music, to embrace the nervous excitement, the exposure, the judgment from those who watch us—because as if our own self-criticism weren’t enough… I chose to sing because without it, I wouldn’t feel alive. And I’m sure that without photography, Mariana wouldn’t either.
In the end, I want to say that beyond feeling beautiful and truly myself, I had the privilege of being seen by an artist so human, so sensitive, that she made this experience not just about living the art of photography, but also about the art of connection, of tenderness, and of kindness.”
