Deadvlei, 2026.
Elopements, families and lodge stories across Namibia
Namibia
Elopements · Families · Lodges
Since 2014
Intimate weddings. Honest moments. I photograph real people in tangible moments who care more about connection than perfect poses. Based in Namibia, travelling everywhere.
You came for the early mornings. For roads that disappear into the horizon. For coffee from an enamel mug while the sun climbs over the dunes. If you’re getting married here, maybe your wedding day should feel the same.
01 / The Atlantic
02 / Spitzkoppe
“
Thank you for being part of such a special moment for us and capturing these memories so beautifully.
We absolutely love how they turned out. It was such a pleasure having you there. We really appreciate everything.
Rachel & Nick · Deadvlei, 2026
Where to start
Three ways in
Travelling Namibia
Elopements & intimate weddings
For couples who would rather feel the wind than follow a schedule.
Hier by die huis & on the road
Families
At home on the coast or along your route. Messy, busy and completely worth remembering.
For lodges & operators
Lodge & activity stories
Photographs that show guests what it feels like to stay with you.
Elopements
The wind will probably ruin your hair.
There will be sand in your shoes before the ceremony even starts.
The coffee will taste better than it does at home.
And at some point, standing in all that space, you’ll realise that none of the small things mattered anyway. From the Skeleton Coast to the dunes of the Namib and the plains of Etosha, Namibia is not a backdrop. It is an experience. I am here to document it as it truly is: wild, intimate and entirely yours.
Spitzkoppe elopement
I’m Mariette. My approach?
I’m a Namibian photographer based on the coast, documenting intimate weddings and destination celebrations across this extraordinary country for more than a decade. Before photography I worked in tourism and lodge management, so I understand remote travel, permits, light, seasons and timing.
I don’t just photograph your day. I help you shape it.
Documentary-style photography
I’m not the photographer who arrives with a shot list and a hundred poses. I’m waiting for the way you reach for each other’s hand when nobody thinks a photograph is being taken.
The laugh that wasn’t planned. The moment after the moment. That’s usually where I’m waiting.
My Namibia
Before photography, I worked in tourism. When couples ask me where to elope, I’m not opening Google. I’m remembering places.
01
Which month, which hour and which place, so you are standing in the right spot when the light arrives.
02
Park opening times, permits and the long drive in, planned before you land.
03
Years in tourism and lodge management mean I know where to stay and how to get there.
Orusanga Lodge, golden hour
First light, Sossusvlei
Elopement · Spitzkoppe
Ben came to Namibia for work and returned to Sweden as a married man. Since the moment he landed, Namibia crawled into his heart and he just had to make Silje a part of this journey… and what better way than to fly her here to marry her in the shadows of the Spitzkoppe?
Couple session · Deadvlei
We planned a calm sunrise in Deadvlei. The desert had other ideas. Within minutes the wind picked up, the sand started moving, and Nick and Rachel just leaned into it. Some of my favourite frames from this year came out of that storm.
Kind words
Mariëtte really went above and beyond to make sure we got the best possible photos despite a very challenging setting. Her local knowledge was invaluable.
Ben & Silje
No rush, no pressure, no unnatural poses. Only memories that will last a lifetime.
Alichia
We left with beautiful family photos and wonderful memories of the half-day we spent with Mariette.
Amélie
Tell me a little about your plans: an elopement, a family session or a lodge story. I’d love to hear where you’re headed.
