The work of Martine Severin

How passion and strategic growth create a distinctive visual voice.

March 24, 2026
Martine Severin photography
I remember saying specifically to myself, I’m going to do that…to convey emotions and to convey feelings from vast distances.

Martine Severin’s career began with a deep childhood love for photography, rooted in the emotional power of images to connect people across distance.

Studio portrait of a person with freckles wearing a feathery pink sweater taken by photographer Martine Severin
Portrait photo with green squiggles in front of face by Martine Severin
Portrait of a man with soft focus tree branches blocking part of face by Martine Severin

She emphasizes that developing a personal voice takes time—starting with being “really awful” and improving through practice, classes, and intentional portfolio-building.

I practiced being really bad for a number of years before I knew that I could even start creating my portfolio as a professional photographer.
Portrait of a woman with eyes closed and the shadow of a chain over her face by lifestyle photographer Martine Severin
Studio portrait of a woman holding a pink cutout by Martine Severin
Profile of a woman standing in pink tree branches holding a branch over her shoulder by photographer Martine Severin

Martine views photography as a disciplined craft, and believes that true professional growth comes from consistent effort, learning, and refining your vision over years.

If anyone is wondering how you become a professional photographer, the first step is to create a portfolio.
Martine Severin

Illinois, United States

VSCO Profile

WHERE PHOTOGRAPHERS TURN PRO