Category Archives: Photographer Q&A

Motherhood & Photography

I’m a mom, and today I wanted to cry.  She came into my office, grabbed my hand, and silently pulled me away from the screen that holds me captive — editing, clicking, typing and scrolling.  Her head tilted down, her lip pooched out, and her countenance was soft.  Her cute little voice told me something...

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Tammie - I needed this Melissa. Thank you so much.

Jamie - Melissa, you’re amazing. I’ve always wondered how you do motherhood mixed with all that you have going on. It’s good to know that you’re not superwoman, even though I think you’re super. Loves.

Sarah Levrets - You are so right Melissa. I stay at home now due to this particular issue. I think it takes a lot to selflessly give up things that make you passionate, but your child, like you said will only be this age once and then its done and on to the next. So, for now, small pieces of passion for me, very small. A time when I can pursue other things will show its face when need be. Balance is something everyone can always work on. Its a life long process. And boy, is it tough. So here’s to us learning to balance in the right way… Good luck… Enjoy the youngsters.

Erin Gardner Langstraat - I’ve been suffering from the same thing lately. I’ve been trying to find a way to reduce my photo time and increase my kid loving, house cleaning time! It’s not easy finding a balance! Thanks for this post, it helps me know I’m not alone in this!

Marie - dishes never get done here at my house either.

Suzanne - Motherhood guilt—gets me every time. Thank you for this very real post and for inspiring us to remember what matters the most. You are a tremendous mother!

Laura Farris - I too needed this Melissa. Thank you for the reminder.

Audrey Lewis - Hugs to you Melissa, I feel this way almost every single day, especially lately. Thanks for the sweet reminder of how fleeting childhood can be. You’re amazing at all you do! If you ever find a way to do it all I hope you’ll share the secret :)

HeidiMarie - Thank you for this post. I could of written this myself, thank you for the reminder.

kristin cook - You’re so right! I had to do a reality check last year…I felt like I was missing out on being the mom I wanted to be! I didn’t want all their memories of me to be at the computer :(

Life with Kaishon - Wow. This is so good to read today. My own baby is ten, but he does notice that I am always engrossed in pictures. Completely engrossed. Thank you for sharing! What a blessing.

kathlene - I know what you mean i have started doing hair only at home. And this last week i had myself a little over booked. Brayden came up to me as i was getting done cleaning up from one appointment to get ready for the next. He had a book in his hands and asked if i could take time to read to him. It made me want to cry. he has never had to ask me for my time i have always just given it to him. So i have a new rule no more then 3 appointment a week. So i have lots of Mommy time too.

Garn-ished.

His baggy jeans and collared shirt were perfect symbolism of his inviting casual demeanor.  His backwards placed red hat meant all business but his 5 o’clock shadow was proof that he was there for fun.  This was the Jake Garn Workshop, a simple pleasure and Mother’s Day gift to myself.  I sat in the back,...

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Julia - Melissa, your writing is brilliant, I can’t stand it. You have an impeccable way of providing others with a sensational depiction of your feelings. Thank you for sharing. Can’t wait for the images.

Ashley - Oh my gosh I’m so jealous, keep me in mind for modeling when you’re ready to rock n’ roll.

CARA - GIRL! not only does your photography rock but your writing skills are rediculous. excited for the pics from the workshop!!!!

angie monson - Wow, I look scary! It was so fun to meet you the other day. This is such a great capture of the entire workshop.

Jake Garn - Ahhhh, I’d hug you too Melissa! Thanks so much and it was so fun to meet you! :-)

Becky Earl - Melissa, you cute thang! First of all the first thing I noticed when you walked in the room late was how beautiful and tall and cutely dressed you were. Don’t worry, I don’t think anyone noticed the baby food ;) Secondly, these are just so fun. I laughed at Angies comment because when I saw you put these up I was PRAYING there were none of me in there. hahaha Can’t wait to see what you got of the models. That one of Macy in your slideshow is stunning. Lovely meeting you friend :)

Tess - Hey! Can I get copies of the photos of me? And would it be alright if I posted them on my Facebook? (Of course crediting you!) Thanks- Tess

Melissa Peterson - My brother (Matt) is in your pic number 11…looks like you all had a great time.
Melissa

Ashley Madsen - WOW! What a neat experience. I’ve been craving for some sort of inspiration lately too. Just something, I haven’t figured it out yet.

Can’t wait to see the images, but the behind the scenes are incredible.

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