I'M MELISSA
--though you can call me Missy or Mel, whichever feels right. I live in West Bend, Wisconsin with my amazing husband, our sweet and sassy daughter, two lovable pups, and one very friendly cat.
If you are searching for a fun, outgoing, yet laid-back photographer...you've come to the right place!
When I’m not hiding behind my camera capturing all the magical moments, you can usually find me chasing sunshine with my family, hiking through the woods, or sipping on a (probably too large) coffee while exploring the great outdoors. We’re a super outdoorsy bunch, so I’ve discovered all kinds of dreamy photo spots around the area—and I’d love to share them with you!
As a mom myself, I totally get how tricky it can be to plan photo sessions with little ones. That’s why I make it my mission to keep things easy, relaxed, and fun.
I’m all about creating a stress-free experience where you can take a breath, enjoy the moment, and let me handle the rest. No pressure, no worries—just genuine, joy-filled memories captured as they unfold.
And most importantly, photos that you can look back on and admire years later with the whole family.
One of my biggest passions outside of photography is dogs—seriously, I’m obsessed. From 2019 to 2023, I dedicated a lot of my heart and time to rescuing and fostering dogs from Texas, both on my own and with local rescue groups. Our home is always full of tail wags and happy chaos, and I proudly wear the badge of “pet-friendly photographer.” Whether your session includes a fur baby or two (or more!), you’re in the right place.
Let’s create something beautiful—and have a little fun while we’re at it!
My approach...
As someone who personally dislikes being in front of a camera, I know how nerve-racking it can be to get photos done. ESPECIALLY when you are told to just stand there and smile the whole time with no idea where to put your hands or how to position your feet. Not fun.
That's why I offer a mix of candid and posed photos during sessions. It offers my clients the ability to move around while also giving me the ability to capture some posed phots in the mix. It's especially the perfect mix for little kids that love to run around and play! It's a lot less draining when you don't have to think about posing the entire time and actually get to move around.
My main goal during your session is to make you feel comfortable and to give you space to be yourself. I want to get you laughing and having fun throughout the process. When you look back on the photos, I want you to think "dang that was so fun. Remember that?"
And trust me, if you're nervous, I promise I will make it fun. You'll likely be watching me make a fool of myself as I show you how to pose. So don't worry, we can laugh at each other!
Getting your picture taken can be fun :)
Kind words from
robert
"Melissa did my daughter's Senior photos and she was AMAZING!! They turned out so much better than I could have ever imagined. Working with her was like working with a family member, everything was so easy. Whether it was communication, the photo shoot, or whatever else she was so great. Highly recommended!"
Let’s work together
