adventurer. mother. Artist.
I don’t take lightly that your photos will be passed down for generations.
I got married 11 years ago, and I knew then that photography would be one of the most important investments of our day. We chose someone whose style we loved — someone who made us feel comfortable and truly seen in front of the camera.
At that moment, I realized these weren’t just our memories anymore. They were becoming hers.
It deepened the way I approach every wedding I photograph. Of course I want you to feel calm, confident, and completely at ease in front of my camera. I want you to love your photos as newlyweds.
When I take your picture, I’m already imagining you flipping through those pages together.
As we flipped through the pages together, I experienced that day through her eyes. Her excitement over the lighthouse where we were married, the oohs and ahhs about our getaway boat — it stopped me in my tracks.
I didn’t fully understand just how important those photographs were until years later, when my five-year-old daughter pulled our wedding album off the shelf for the first time.
But I’m also thinking years ahead — to the day little hands reach for your album for the first time.
"We fall in love with different images each time we look at our gallery."
from Elena & Jack
After 5 years as a boat captain, I traded my duffle bags in the Caribbean for a camera in New England. . . Since 2014, I’ve photographed over 150 weddings and engagements, and countless families and heirloom portraits.
It's so nice to meet you, friend.
Welcome, I'm Maria (pronounced "Mariah")
What Sets My Approach Apart –
I prioritize people, always thinking of who will be cherishing these photos once they’re printed. The coastal New England style and timeless edits are the backdrop to the connection and emotion that is most important in my images.
My clients often tell me that the photos are everything they dreamed of, and that they feel seen, supported, and thoughtfully guided in planning and posing every step of the way.
“Maria was an absolute dream to work with—professional, calm, creative, and incredibly kind. She captured every moment so beautifully and authentically, without ever feeling intrusive or staged.”
from Elena & Jack
engaged south east NE
rhode island monthly engaged
yankee magazine
wedding wire
the knot
IN THE PRESS
Rhode Island Summer Days
There's something about the classic charm of New England that I can't get enough of. Give me a lobster roll in hand, friends and family by my side, and I’m in my happy place.
Whiskey & Scout
Our two Bernese Mountain dogs, Whiskey and Scout (RIP Moose), have turned our home into a place of joyful chaos and cuddles – they're the heartbeats at my feet and the best editing buddies.
1961 Wooden Lobster Boat
I've got this thing for old stuff with soul - My husband and I love our 1961 wooden lobster boat and are always combing through New England's antique troves for our home too.
Miracle Baby
There's no greater joy than the beautiful chaos of family life. My daughter is our IVF miracle baby and our most precious gift. Each day with her is a reminder of life's most beautiful moments.
20 Countries (& counting)
My dad instilled his adventurous spirit in me. I’ve lived abroad and traveled to over 20 countries, including a month-long honeymoon trek through Vietnam and Thailand. Up next: Italy!
When wedding clients become family clients
When my past wedding clients reach out to book a family session, I am overjoyed! There is no greater compliment than being trusted to capture every major milestone and celebration in life!
"Even my camera-shy fiancé loved every single moment..."
from Lauren
Timeless vignette portraits with a modern touch
Heirlooms
Heartfelt moments, beautifully preserved
Families
Colorful & Coastal New England "I dos"
Weddings
Whether you're celebrating love, capturing a growing family, or cherishing the delicate early days of your child, find the perfect session experience tailored just for you.
Years from now, I want you to look at your photos and think, “Oh yes…we loved each other so much” and our love is growing by the day.
After photographing more than 150 couples, I’ve seen it time and time again that the images you’ll treasure most aren’t about perfection—they’re about feeling. Feelings of light, authenticity, love and personality.
When you work with me, you’re choosing someone who not only understands the coastal aesthetic you love, but honors your connection as a couple, and values the family-centered moments that make your milestone meaningful.
I can’t wait to hear your vision and bring it to life together.
Stay in touch - mariaburtonphoto@gmail.com
@mariaburtonphoto