My name is Mika and I'm a facilitator of memories, and a creator of experiences. I've been using photography to empower people and transform ideas of possibility for nearly 20 years. I like to think I'm changing the world one photo at a time. I’ve photographed everything from, babies and families, to edgy boudoir, weddings and pivotal moments in history.
In 2009 I became a guest on the Multnomah and Chinook first nation territories and started exploring a more collaborative style, before establishing M.Martinez Photo. The boxes that we’re expected to live in are created in so many ways. One of the most significant, is mainstream social media. It shapes ideas of who we should be, how we should look, and what we should be striving for in life. Without alternative perspectives people get stuck living in boxes that they were never meant for. I believe that being one's authentic self is so much more important than just fitting in.
My dream is to share expressions of self that are less seen or accepted in American society. I want to empower others to live boldly and authentically. To love themselves fully and without judgment. I’m here to share and take part in these expressions, while also supporting others in their journey of acceptance. My vision is to remind people there is no one way in life, the possibilities of who we can be are determined by us, and us alone.
