behind the lens

meet margaret

Hi there — I’m Margaret!
Welcome to my world of adventure, creativity, and visual storytelling.

I’m a travel photographer and videographer based in the beautiful city of Cape Town, South Africa. What started as a teenage passion has grown into a career that takes me around the world — capturing meaningful moments, discovering new cultures, and telling stories through my lens.

Originally from the North Shore of Chicago, I grew up in a small town with a camera never far from my hand. Ironically, I once swore I’d never be a photographer. But when the pandemic hit, I found myself fresh out of high school with no job, no college plans — and an open door. I took a chance on photography, and it led me to build a six-figure wedding photography business between 2020 and 2025.

After five years in the wedding industry, I felt called to create more space for the kind of work that lights me up: travel, storytelling, and supporting small businesses. That led me to start Artē Studios in Cape Town — a photo/video and marketing company designed to help small brands stand out through intentional, creative content. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work with inspiring companies, including Adidas, and expand my work into the lifestyle and brand space.

But I always knew that travel deserved its own space — something beyond Instagram, where I could bring together travel guides, photo journals, creative projects, and brand collaborations under one roof. That’s what this space is. A curated home for all things travel, both personal and professional. A space where art meets adventure.

My love for travel began at 15 when my dad took me on my first trip abroad to Portugal. We spent a week exploring the country, and I remember being captivated by the unfamiliar — photographing everything I saw and falling in love with culture, color, and curiosity. That trip opened my eyes to the world beyond my hometown. Then at 17, I took my first solo trip — a volunteer experience in South Africa — and it changed everything. I came back with a new perspective on life and a confidence I didn’t know I had. Since then, I’ve visited 22 countries and counting, chasing stories and beauty wherever I go.

Whether you’re here for inspiration, planning your next adventure, or looking to collaborate — I’m so glad you’re here. I hope this space encourages you to stay curious, chase beauty, and never stop exploring… even if you’re doing it solo.

Xo, 
Margaret