I’m Maria Wan, and my photography story began in my childhood. The mysterious world of softboxes, lights, and cameras has fascinated me since I started visiting my neighbour who was a professional photographer and had a studio near by. I promised myself that when I grew up, I would pursue photography. In 2001, I got a vintage Zenit camera, passed down to me by my grandfather during the analogue era. Around the same time, I was studying photography at the Film and TV School in Wroclaw, Poland. I developed my first pictures in the darkroom. This was literally like a magic! Over the next two decades, technology has evolved dramatically, I participated in multiple photography courses, my passion for photography has only grown.

Portrait photography is my true love because I am acutely aware of the fleeting nature of time. However, I also enjoy event photography, as it brings some thrill and excitement.

On a personal note, I am the proud mum of two wonderful children—a 6-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl. I’m based in Finchley, North London. I am passionate about traveling, painting with acrylics and oils and also have a keen interest in psychology and natural medicine.