SAME PHONE. WHO DIS?
Hi. I’m Melissa and I’m a digital and analog media professional. I’m currently traveling around South America, starting in Colombia and working my way South to Argentina. That being said, I will travel far and wide for quality photographic opportunities.
Originating from Miami, I was exposed to a dichotomy of opulence, poverty, beauty, hardship, and every shocking “Florida-man” story in between. Growing up I’d often compare myself to the unattainable Miami standard of beauty. As I’ve matured and traveled, I’ve realized that imperfections are beautiful. No matter who you are or what walk of life you come from, there is beauty in everyone.
Intimate portraits are a message of overcoming vulnerability and I welcome the challenge of capturing your true spirit while making you feel comfortable and sharing a few laughs. Every time I shoot, I strive to bring my client’s essence and beauty to light. Nothing pleases me more than connecting with someone and seeing their eyes light up from my work. Let’s adorn and celebrate your vessel together. If we’re shooting your product, you can trust that I will bring your space or object to light showcasing its unique intricacies and functions.
The Journey
I grew up with some kind of camera in hand, whether a little Canon point-and-shoot or a Holga toy film camera. I enjoyed capturing my family, friends, surroundings, and adventures. Social media and I went through a metaphorical puberty together, from AIM and Myspace to the current state of Insta and TikTok. Shooting my tiny World and sharing it on the World Wide Web was just second nature.
Fast forward to University. I thought I wanted to be a Vice News Reporter to create tentpole documentaries in far flung locales. It seemed like the perfect cohesion of travel and visual media while creating a lasting impact. I went to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam with my camera and a friend and made some incredible photos and life-changing memories. However, life had other plans for me.
I switched my degree from Broadcasting to Commercial Photography after realizing programmed college radio sets were too formulaic. I knew eventually, I would get in trouble for constant “Song Requests” I’d admittedly self-request (that explicit Biggie song was an accident, I swear). My minor degree, Commercial Photography, gripped me. The technical aspects of the various lighting equipment, the challenge of bringing my minds-eye to reality, and the creative freedom of making magic out of a blank slate enveloped me. I enjoyed pushing the envelope, bringing 10-foot pythons into the studio to wrap around nude models or that time I utilized a rusty trashed 90s elliptical as a prop. I was obsessed with alternative people, vibrant colors, and turning strangers on campus into my subjects. My fashion professor always encouraged me and my joy for portraits blossomed. And thus began my journey to Professional Photographer. I hope I get to connect with you soon.