HELLO FRIEND! I'm so glad you found me.
I'm a wedding & portrait photographer based in North Carolina.
My best friends would describe me as creative, hard-working, laid-back and generous.
I've gotten to document peoples' lives for more than 16 years!
If I wasn't taking photos for my job, I'd still be taking photos. Other than being a mom, it's my why.
Traveling and experiencing new places is my love language.
I love collecting memories with my family from every corner of the world.
Staying curious is important: wander often, wonder always.
(My seven-year-old snapped this pic of me on a beach in Costa Rica.)
I'm married to my best friend, and we have a FULL house + even FULLER hearts.
I'm easygoing and value humor a LOT in my relationships.
Hugs are the best form of a dopamine hit. I welcome them daily from family and friends.
I LOVE dogs. Totally see why they are fantastic emotional support animals. (That's our shepherd mix, Bear!)
As I've grown older and had more children ;) ... I think a lot about the passing of time and the meaningfulness of photos. On days when I'm not being super kind to myself (we all have that inner voice!), I think about how my work doesn't have that much of an impact. BUT THEN... I look back on all of my own photos and I absolutely treasure them.
I fully admit that I'm not the best photographer out there. But I WILL agree with the kind words I've received many times throughout my career as a photographer: Melissa cares about people. She is engaging, kind, and able to put even the most reticent subject at ease. She wants you to feel comfortable and confident while you're being photographed. And when you see that gallery at a later date, she wants the photos to showcase the affection and warmth of your relationships.
I'm a floral enthusiast; whenever we travel, visiting a botanical garden is #1 on my list.
I hand embroider things (follow my creations @melissatuckstitches)!
Dancing is good for my soul and movement in general does wonders for my mental health.
I believe humility and confidence are equally important.
To me, life is all about finding balance, and I work every day at achieving my own.
Scroll on down for my experience and approach to photography!
MY EXPERIENCE + APPROACH TO PHOTOGRAPHY
I have been taking pictures professionally for 16+ years. I've photographed more than 100 weddings, countless families and special milestones like newborns, birthday parties and anniversaries. I’m a former journalist with a bachelors degree in photojournalism. My documentary training helps me capture those moments that are fleeting and precious. I truly believe that the best photos are taken when you don't realize the camera is even there.
My goal as your photographer is to capture images that reflect YOU. My approach is to tell people’s stories in an authentic and timeless way. I give guidance in posing but have a strong documentary background, so my hope is you’ll get vibrant, full-of-life, genuine imagery.
I appreciate spirited couples and families who value connection and adventure. I believe in celebrating our differences. I’m proud to work with clients of all backgrounds, orientations, and walks of life, because love and family come in so many beautiful and unique forms.
Most importantly, I'm all about good vibes and positive energy. I try to create an environment where everyone feels at ease and respected. If this sounds good to you, let's make some magic together!
