Meet the photograpHER

Hey, I’m Marike van der Merwe

The face and heart behind Van der Merwe Media, and a photographer who has always had a soft spot for the wonderfully messy, real moments that make family life what it is.

My photography journey began in 2012, but before going full-time I spent five years shaping young minds as a teacher. Looking back, I think wrangling a classroom full of kids was pretty perfect training for family photography, because kids (and, let’s be honest, dads) rarely follow posing instructions.

Today, I’m a full-time photographer specialising in natural light and outdoor family sessions. I’m all about the giggles, the cuddles, the chaos, the muddy feet, the belly laughs, and those little in-between moments you didn’t even realise were happening until you see them in a photograph.

My teaching background means I’m very comfortable around kids, but becoming a mom myself has changed the way I see family photography in an even more personal way.

I now understand just how quickly the days change. How a tiny hand in yours can feel like the most important thing in the world. How the ordinary moments you think you’ll always remember somehow become the ones you desperately want to hold onto.

Being a mom has given me an even deeper appreciation for what I get to photograph for other families. I’m not just looking for the perfect picture. I’m looking for the way your child reaches for you, the laugh you can’t quite contain, the way your family naturally fits together, and all those little details that tell the story of your people.

And while I take your photographs seriously, I definitely don’t take myself too seriously. I’m energetic, a little quirky, and there is a very high chance I’ll trip over something during your session. It’s basically part of the experience.

My goal is simple: I want you to feel comfortable, have fun, and leave your session with photographs that feel like you.

So if you’re looking for a Cape Town family photographer who brings energy, authenticity, a love for the beautifully imperfect moments, and a healthy dose of quirky charm...

Hiiiiii, it’s me. ♡