Marybeth Dixon

Photo by Ivana Doria Photography.

My photography is rooted in a deep love for New England—a place I can’t imagine living without. The landscapes and architecture here have a way of telling stories, and through my images, I try to capture not just what’s in front of me but how it feels to be there.

I’m drawn to places that create a strong sense of place—whether it’s the weathered shingles of a house in Sandwich, the rich history of Concord, or the coastal charm of Motif #1 in Rockport. These places mean so much to me, and I want to share what makes them special. I’m especially interested in the small details most people might overlook: a beautifully worn doorknob, a carving on a wall, the curve of a leaf, or the bud of a plant. These details make a scene feel personal and invite the viewer to stop and see more, just like I do.

Light is everything. The right light can transform an ordinary scene into something beautiful, bringing out textures, shadows, and colors in a way that makes it feel alive. There’s nothing better than finding perfect light shining on a subject, and nothing more frustrating than great light with nothing particular to highlight.

My approach is a mix of planning and spontaneity. Sometimes I set out with a goal, like catching a sunrise at the boardwalk in Sandwich, but other times it’s simply a walk through town—like Concord or Lexington—where I let the day and my curiosity guide me. When I travel outside of New England, I follow a similar approach: I’ll have a rough idea of where I want to go, but I’m always open to surprises along the way.

More than anything, I want my photos to make people feel like they’re there with me—that they can see the details, feel the light, and experience the same mood I did when I captured the scene. My goal is to inspire people to notice the beauty in the places around them, whether it’s an iconic landscape or something as simple as a door.

New England holds my heart, and through my photography, I hope to share that connection—one place, one moment, and one detail at a time.

Featured & Exhibited

As seen in The New York Times' "52 Places to Visit."

Exhibited at the Griffin Museum of Photography, including "The Changing Views of the Griffin Museum" and the "Our Town" public art installation with Photoville on the Winchester Town Common (2023).