Gently Guiding

The Experience

Cultivating a space that honors
the fleeting moment

My Offerings

Weddings

All inclusive at $10,000-$15,000

‍ ‍

Half Day & Micro Gatherings

Starting at $5,500

Custom Designed Heirloom Albums

Starting at $600 — learn more here.

( film + digital )

Custom quotes will be made on Multi-Day Wedding weekends or celebrations out of the Continental US
———

Otherwise, travel costs are reflected in the starting investment.

Inquire Now ↗

My Approach

A documentary approach that is heart forward and human centric.

I specialize in the art of noticing and drawing out the goodness that already exists— I am motivated by connection, seeking the in-between moments, and prioritizing natural light. I’m most interested in what feels real and honest, while demonstrating a gentleness that makes you and your loved ones feel seen.

Testimonials

“Thoughtful, kind, and creative”

We got so much more out of our wedding day experience than we could have imagined. She was thoughtful, kind and so creative. She continued to make us feel so comfortable throughout the day! And when we got the pictures back, we were speechless. She captured our special day effortlessly but so intentionally. They are a work of art and we are so blessed that we got to work with her on our incredible day. We have made a friend for life and can’t wait to continue capturing our story for years to come!

Jade + Steve

“She has a way of noticing”

When we got engaged, Melissa was the first person we knew we wanted by our sides for the biggest day of our lives. We were struck by her ability to capture mundane and simple moments in the most real and honest way. She has a way of noticing and amplifying the beautiful details that we so often miss as people. Not only is Melissa outrageously talented but she has such a warm, caring, and peaceful presence- this is what drew us to her the most. It is so clear that Melissa cares deeply about authenticity in her work by the way that she walks with her clients- making you feel a little more like family than client/photographer.

Raegan + Adam

“We knew she had to be ours!”

From our first call with Melissa we knew she had to be ours! She is the perfect balance of humble and confident. Her eye for eloquently capturing the intimate moments are what drew us in but her calm creative energy was how we knew we made the best choice for our day. We never felt pressure to be anyone but ourselves that day and we knew she’d capture us perfectly. She translated our entire experience of our wedding day into beautiful visuals that we get to keep and look back on fondly forever. I have since found a great friend in Melissa, she continues to cheer us on through all life’s seasons. There is no better human to capture you, creatively or with more love in their heart!

Callahan + Georgianna

“What she creates is pure, timeless magic.”

We’ve had the privilege of shooting with Melissa three times now and each one has been a special experience. Melissa has a beautiful way of finding pockets of perfect in the seemingly normal moments—you’ll hear her say, “trust me on this,” and you should! What she creates is pure, timeless magic. Each gallery I receive is my new favorite keepsake that I will treasure forever. Not only is she wildly talented—she’s kind, inviting, joyful, and makes you feel so comfortable which translates to photos that feel natural and true to you.

Hannah + Colton

“Her creativity shines”

Melissa is our go-to photographer for each season of our life! She is incredibly kind, passionate, and creative; making every shoot a truly enjoyable experience. Her easy-going personality and genuine kindness puts everyone at ease–creating a comfortable and relaxed time together. Her creativity shines through in every shot, capturing moments with an artistic flair that is simply breathtaking. We highly recommend Melissa if you’re looking for a photographer who is not only talented, but also a joy to work with.

Allison + Brad

“Creative, detail-oriented, and a joy”

From the moment we connected, it was clear that Melissa is not only talented but also one of those rare people you can instantly feel at ease around. Her communication is exceptional—she’s always clear, attentive, and genuinely listens to what you envision. Her creativity and eye for detail truly sets her apart. Melissa's direction is so natural and intuitive; she guides you in a way that feels authentic and effortless.

Melissa has a warmth and authenticity that makes her more than just a photographer—she’s someone you’ll want in your life forever. I’m so grateful for the connection we’ve built and can’t wait to see all the beautiful work she’ll continue to create. If you’re looking for a someone who is creative, detail-oriented, and a joy to work with— you’ve found her.

Kenzie, Reforme Collective Planning

KIND SENTIMENTS

A refined and organic approach, paired with elevated simplicity

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
Fig. 11
Fig. 12
Fig. 13

Frequently Asked

I. The Basics

I like it to keep it simple yet elevated. Laying the foundation of trust, approachability, and a creative perspective that allows you and your loved ones to feel seen.
I am currently based out of Oregon, however, most of the weddings I document are out of state. I take on a limited number of weddings/elopements each year to prioritize quality and intention.
Of course! I frequently travel to the majority of my clients, who in turn, have become fast friends. It's a privilege to document your love in the places that are the most dear to you. You can find my travel schedule here to see where I'm going next.
Since I primarily work out-of-state, my wedding collections are all inclusive. Pricing transparency is of high-value to me, so nothing is hidden from you.

II. The Process

i. You’ve connected with my work and heart in some way, and you feel like we could potentially be a good fit! Please fill out my inquiry form to see how I can best document your celebration!
ii. Once the inquiry has been received, I will reach back out to schedule a ‘Google Meet’ call so I can get to know you and your vision more thoroughly.
iii. This call is designed to pull back the curtain a little more— to initiate more genuine conversation that accurately gives a glimpse into your day. I want to take account of your needs/priorities when it comes to this investment you are making; giving clarity and building trust.
iv. Once our call is over, I will send over your custom quote if we both feel like we are a good fit for one another— I value connection and relationship so much that it simply would feel amiss if it were purely transactional.
v. I am always elated when it feels so seamless and easy; like it was always meant to be. To make it official, I require a 50% deposit to claim your date. The collaboration will continue over the span of now until your celebration, and I will continue to be in touch with you along the way.
Yes! The number of rolls that are used at each session fluctuate based on the amount of time spent together, but is always included.
Using a multitude of mediums is how I express myself creatively— I love both formats for different things, so hybrid shooting feels the most natural to me. There is something so tangible and unhurried about film that makes me feel really connected to that particular moment; allowing us all to slow down. Digital gives me a little more creative control with different settings + seeing how it’s responding almost instantly. Digital and film go together like bread and butter— it truly is art.

III. The Albums

When I was young, I can remember countless times flipping through albums of my own family— it's a tangible gift for the generations that follow. Eventually I was able to partner with a company to give the gift of quality, timelessness, and photo preservation -- It’s something I wholeheartedly believe is worth the investment. I am committed to designing your album with care and an intentionality that has an everlasting impact.
Prices start at $600 for custom designed albums. The highest of quality, artfully designed, and carefully captured.
Fill out my form here to start the process of giving your images a permanent home.

Investment Guide

For a closer look at my service offerings, what’s included in each package, pricing and more — sign up below to access my Investment Guide.