beautiful spark


ignite it with the power
of strategic brand photography

Branding Stories of Chicago since 2015

You have

a beautiful spark

You know the one. It’s what makes people lean in and say, “Ooooh, tell me more.”

But if your photos don’t show it? You’re hiding exactly what people want to see.

That’s where I come in.

I’m not just here to snap a pretty picture.

I’m here to capture the magic that makes your brand YOU. The joy, the confidence, the quiet power, the loud laughter — whatever it is, I’ll get to know it as I would a new friend.

Here’s the truth: everyone has a beautiful spark. Most people just need someone who knows how to catch it on camera. That’s my superpower.

Whether you’re a bold business owner, a creative genius, or somewhere in between — you deserve photos that feel like a mirror of your best self (without the awkward poses or weird corporate energy).

If you’re ready for visuals that stop the scroll, light up your brand, and feel like you — click that GET IN TOUCH button.

Unleash it’s power

Hi there.

I’m Maija

Let’s combine our superpowers.

I bring over 20 years of experience working and teaching within the arts and photography. I went to school for art education and took photography in the darkroom before digital was a thing. However, I’ve been mastering my craft since I was a kid. (See that little girl in the photo?)

With all that, I still need you as my team mate. YOU BRING THE ENERGY AND THE PERSONALITY. No pressure. I fully realize you may feel awkward in front of a camera. (Most people do, myself included.)

It is by combining our superpowers that we’ll create branding photography that captures your spark to tell the story of your brand.

Woman laughs towards camera at sunset
Maija immediately put me at ease with her wonderfully warm personality and relaxed approach.

Kirsty Hamilton ~ Kirsty Hamilton Photography

Headshot of female lawyer in front of window with Chicago background
 Maija is incredibly skilled at figuring out what works best – and most powerfully – -for each of her clients. Maija is a delightfully warm person and a dedicated artist.

Linda Holstein ~ Holstein Mediation

Services

brand builders & headshots

show the personalities and tell the stories.

don’t worry if you’re camera-shy. I’ve got your back.
woman in black rimmed glasses leans on a seat in the waiting area of O-Hare airport during a personal branding session
…or go the diy route

learn
phone-tography

OoH! tell me more

How it works

Investment

It takes time to get to know your brand to tell your story

Your investment is also a tax-deductible business expense
Includes:
  • Detailed Questionnaire and/or Interview
  • Preparation Guides & Checklists
  • 1:1 Strategy with a Customized Session Guide
  • Online Gallery
  • Image Retouching – to add the polish
  • Image Licensing

Brand story

Man with briefcase walks quickly past a mirrored office building in downtown Chicago
Starting at $950

A scroll-stopping collection of images that tell all parts of your branding stories: portraits of the people and their personalities, behind-the-scenes, workspaces, details, images needed for future promotions…

Each Brand Builder is strategized to fill your image gaps and create content to fill your future branding goals.

Your gallery will ooze your brand while showcasing your professionalism, consistency, and dedication to your audience.

Headshots

Woman with glasses leans in and smiles at the camera.
Starting at $350

Sometimes you only need a refreshed portrait to get you started.

Each Brand Essentials session includes 3 retouched portraits to give you greater flexibility and longevity in your portraits. Every time you change an image on your social profiles, it shines a brighter light on your messaging.

Phone-tography

Starting at $50

My background is in teaching art. I love to see your face light up with those AHA moments.

Join me on a photo walk in Chicago or let me teach a workshop customized for your group. I’ll teach you how to use available light, how to compose an image, and even how to capture quick moving subjects.

You don’t need a fancy new phone. (I have an iPhone 12.) It’s about learning to see while fully understanding the tools.

Proud Member

Maija is a brilliant photographer.

She is amazing at branding and making sure you are true to yourself and your business image. Maija is so professional but she makes you feel so confident and comfortable in front of the camera. She shot a visual story for my salon. She’s very talented! I recommend her to everyone!

 ~Lisa Jindu ~ Streets of London Salon

Man in a suit leans against a blue wall - headshot with Maija Martin Photography
Maija was fantastic at understanding and validating what I wanted and the results were exceptional.

~Mark L.

All are welcome here.

I value kindness and collaboration. We all bring unique and amazing talents to this world. I believe in the power of working together and learning from one another. I believe in diversity for creating a stronger, more connected humankind.