northern
virginia
photography

let’s tell your story with photos

It’s really pretty simple: I like people, I like photography, I like stories.

If you’re interested in photos that will tell the beautiful story of you and yours (furry ones included) in a relaxed, casual way, I can do that for you. There’ll be no forced posing and no forced smiles. I’ll make photos that capture genuine moments and tell the sweet story of you and yours while we, well… basically, while we hang out.

During a session with me, all you need to do is just be you. We might chat a little, but sometimes I’ll just step back and quietly frame whatever’s going on. You might even forget I’m there. Together, we’ll make real life photos that reflect real life you.

I aim to celebrate your life as it is on a given day. You don’t have to dress up or even do your hair. I really hope you wear something comfy. Your home can be messy or tidy, it doesn’t matter. My role is to offer gentle witness to the life that is yours, exactly as it is — messy, crazy, calm, somewhere in-between — and then to provide you with images that celebrate that, i.e., images that celebrate YOU.

Sara B.

“Michelle’s presence is so positive and uplifting. We didn’t feel like subjects, but like a family in our home. Her style is not abrasive whatsoever, and conversation and photos flowed easily! The final products are timeless and beautiful. We cherish the experience and our family photos deeply.”

“Your visit was both relaxing and affirming for our family… we couldn’t have asked for a more laid back morning.”

Maybe you’re getting the idea that I like to keep things simple (it’s true). To that end, I aim to offer you an experience that’s seamless and EASY. As much as possible, I want you to feel comfortable and like you don’t have to plan anything — other than a date and time. On the day of the session, I’ll show up and spend a little time with you and yours; it’s that simple. We can hang out while you make pancakes for breakfast, or maybe we’ll go for a walk. You might have an idea for what you want me to capture, but we can also just go with the flow. Below are a few details to get the ball rolling.

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES BECAUSE I WANT THIS TO BE EASY FOR YOU.

documentary photography

session fee: $800

*a 50% deposit is due at time of booking to secure your session date

Sessions include immediate family members and typically last two hours. The session fee includes all high resolution digital files in both color and black and white (minimum 70 images). I’ll present these images to you in a private online gallery for viewing and downloading. You’ll also have the opportunity to order prints and specialty items like canvas wraps directly from the gallery (these are not included in session fee).

And because I believe in the power of story, I want to gift you your story in a complimentary photo book. Curating photos from your session, I’ll design and deliver a physical album that you can hold in your hands and treasure in the days to come.

I occasionally do fine art and environmental portrait sessions ($500). Though these sessions have a slightly more structured framework, I still aim for a relaxed experience. It’s still about you being you — with no forced poses, no forced smiles. Please inquire via the contact form below for details.

let’s tell your story…