Destination Virginia Beach Wedding, Blue Horizon Sandbridge

Destination Virginia Beach Wedding, Blue Horizon Sandbridge

Last week I started sharing Andrea and Elard’s Sanbridge beach wedding with you. Now, I’m back to finish up with the ceremony and reception photos from this lovely Blue Horizon beach house wedding in Virginia Beach.

The ceremony took place on the beach, just before sunset. It was a gorgeous blue-sky day, and a glorious breeze swept across the shore.

I loved the intimate feel of their ceremony, and the fact that they invited their parents to lead the guests in a blessing of the rings.

And have I mentioned that late September - mid-October is a perfect time of year for a beach wedding in SE Virginia? The beach is secluded and the skies are gorgeous!

And then they were Mr. & Mrs.!

After the walk back down the aisle, we gathered family and close friends for a few group portraits on the beach.

Then we took a little time for some intimate bride and groom portraits, while the guests enjoyed cocktail hour by the pool.

Aren’t these two just gorgeous together?! And that sky! It’s to die for! <3

After the bride and groom portraits, we headed to the reception for a few candid shots with the guests.

Then it was on to the cake cutting, before I bid them adieu.

Andrea and Elard, you two are magic together! Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your amazing wedding celebration. Best wishes for many beautiful years together!! - XOXO, Melissa

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Blue Horizon Beach House Destination Wedding, Virginia Beach

Blue Horizon Beach House Destination Wedding, Virginia Beach

Hello friends! I’ve got some lovely beach wedding inspiration for you today! I am excited to share Andrea and Elard’s beautiful destination Sandbridge beach wedding with you. They were married at the stunning waterfront Blue Horizon beach house, and it was an intimate and elegant affair.

The Blue Horizon is one of the largest and newest beach houses in Sandbridge. I have had the pleasure of photographing two weddings there in the past year, and this venue does not disappoint. The sweeping beach views, large rooms, and walls of windows make it a great location for a romantic wedding.

This was a destination wedding, and I had not had an opportunity to meet Andrea and Elard in person before their wedding day. When I arrived, I was greeted warmly by their families, and instantly felt right at home documenting this special day for them.

I gathered a few detail shots of the special mementos and personal touches they had incorporated, and then met the bridal party during their final preparations for the ceremony.

Soon it was time for Andrea to don her stunning bridal gown. I adore the simplicity and clean lines she chose. She looked so gorgeous and elegant!

Next, it was time for a father-daughter first look. It was definitely difficult to keep dry eyes through this emotional greeting!

After a few heartfelt moments with Dad, I grabbed the bride and groom, separately, for a few wedding portraits before we gathered for the ceremony on the beach.

I’ll finish up the second half of this beautiful beach wedding in the next post. Stay tuned for more soon! - XOXO, Melissa

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Lifestyle Family Beach Session, Virginia Beach, VA

Lifestyle Family Beach Session, Virginia Beach, VA

Beach season is back! I know it’s still a little chilly for a swim, but the temps are warming and the beach is beautiful!

Every summer there are families that I really look forward to photographing, and the Brumfields are definitely one of those.

I’ve shot for them for 3 years now, and every session is such a blast! They love to have a documentary feel to their images, which I adore. It allows me to get some of the most creative shots for their family.

They are big time beach lovers, and have the cutest, most active, young kiddos. They sure keep me running from start to finish, but they keep me giggling too!

I love that mom and dad let their kids just be themselves, which means they have tons of fun, and their personalities shine.

I also love that their grandparents are included in each session, and that they are game for full on beach shenanigans too!

I mean, what better summer family memories could a kid have than frolicking freely on the beach with their entire family crew of several generations?!

These memories they will carry with them for a lifetime. They are memories that will help to keep them rooted in that family togetherness and acceptance.

Clearly they felt safe, and loved, and happy!

It truly is an honor to be able to do what I do. And when it’s this much fun, it is an absolute joy too!

Thank you, Brumfield family, for entrusting me with your amazing summer vacation memories! I can’t wait to see you again next time! - XOXO, Melissa

Let's make a date to document those little moments with big heart for your family!

If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area, or plan to be, contact me to schedule your spring/summer lifestyle photo session!

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Creative Senior Portraits, Norfolk's NEON Arts District

Creative Senior Portraits, Norfolk's NEON Arts District

Mural OXOXO by Jacob Eveland, Richmond based artist

Fair warning, this will be a long post! I had SO much fun with Peyton at her senior portrait session in Norfolk’s NEON arts district, and there are tons of photos to share. I loved so many of them, I just couldn’t weed many out.

Mural OXOXO by Jacob Eveland, Richmond based artist

Peyton is a creative soul who is headed off to college next year to study art and music. She’s smart, spunky and fun to have around!

Artwork by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

We had blast exploring the streets in the NEON district and shooting around the amazing painted murals in the area. There is some awesome talent on display.

Artwork by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

Peyton brought her sweet pooch and best bud Orbi to our session to star in a few photos. Orbi is a super hero rescue pup. Peyton has been through the certification training process with Orbi, who is a full-fledged therapy dog. <3

Artwork by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

We Can Create What We Can Imagine, Artwork by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

We Can Create What We Can Imagine, Artwork by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers

Peyton plays the ukulele and sings, in addition to many other talents, so we incorporated a nod to her musical abilities into our session as well.

These shots below are probably my favorites from the day - the stunning artwork by Nils Westergard is so dramatic and memorable. I just love it!

Artwork Kaiya with Finch by Richmond artist Nils Westergard

Artwork Kaiya with Finch by Richmond artist Nils Westergard

Artwork Kaiya with Finch by Richmond artist Nils Westergard

Peyton has a great sense of style too, and we were able to incorporate a lot of variety in her gallery between the wardrobe changes, and the fun, unique architecture downtown.

Painting by @onietonie, Troy Summerell

Transparent Seas artwork by Jason Levesque of Norfolk

Artwork: The Nature of Unity by Ivan Roque, Miami based artist

Thank you Peyton (and Peyton’s awesome mama!) for an amazing and unique session. I had THE best time getting creative with you!! - XOXO, Melissa

I also want to express my deep gratitude for the incredibly talented artists who have shared their gifts with the city of Norfolk. If you have not been to the NEON district to see these beautiful paintings, I highly recommend that you check them out! There are many more murals, sculptures, and unique pieces to see, but the artists whose work appears in the background of these images are listed here:

Mural OXOXO by Jacob Eveland, Richmond based artist; We Can Create What We Can Imagine by New York painter Esteban del Valle and glass artist Julia Rogers; Kaiya with Finch by Richmond artist Nils Westergard; Painting by @onietonie, Troy Summerell; Transparent Seas artwork by Jason Levesque of Norfolk; The Nature of Unity by Ivan Roque, Miami based artist.

Sadly, just weeks after our session, Orbi was diagnosed with cancer and has since passed. I am so heartbroken that he is gone, but also so grateful that I was able to meet and photograph this sweet soul. Rest in peace Orbi. You are dearly missed and will not be forgotten.

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If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area and would like to schedule your unique portrait experience, contact us today: melissablissphotography@gmail.com

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First Year Photos at Regent University - Norfolk, VA Child Photographer

First Year Photos at Regent University - Norfolk, VA Child Photographer

I had the pleasure of photographing this little cutie when she was just a few week old. And what fun it was to see how much she’s grown! We shot her one year old portraits at the lovely Regent University Campus.

Mom brought this sweet girlie to me in her darling first year photo shoot tutu. And this little gem brought all of her fabulous personality to the shoot! I could just eat her up, she’s so cute!!

I mean, those cheeks!!! How could I not fall in love with this doll face?

I also heard a little rumor that this little beauty is going to become a big sister before too long - yay!

We managed to squeeze all of that adorable into just one mini session. Can you believe it?

Thank you, Miss T,. for bringing such joy to our session! It was such a treat to see you again. - XOXO, Melissa

Creative Lifestyle Portrait and Wedding Photographer, Hampton Roads, VA + Travel

Melissa Bliss Photography – Authentic Moments in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

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Wardrobe Styling Tips for Your Lifestyle Photo Session - Virginia Beach Photographer

Wardrobe Tips for Your Lifestyle Photo Session

Virginia Beach Photographer

You’ve planned a date to capture those beautiful family memories - yay! The next thought that comes to mind is: "Hmmm, what are we going to wear?!" The idea of dragging your kids through the mall, and rummaging through the back of closets to find coordinating outfits suddenly deflates your sense of accomplishment. The good news is, I have some helpful tips prepared to make your job as painless as possible. Don't worry, we've got this!

A few quick wardrobe tips to keep in mind:

• Chose a color palette of 2-3 complimentary colors for your group. Working off of one pattern works well - select that, and then use colors that coordinate & compliment that pattern piece.

• Use mostly solids for the group as they are flattering and less likely to clash. Don't think matching, think coordinating. You don't want to look like you're all in uniform. Layers are great, in case it is chilly or hot and humid. Hats, scarves and sunglasses can also add variety without big changes.

• Avoid very large or very small patterns. In most situations, text and large logos should be avoided.

• Reserve brights and very powerful colors for accessories. Strong colors can produce a color cast on skin and light clothing. They also draw attention and can make one person or feature stand out.

• White is not a great choice as it shows marks easily and can be difficult in certain lighting situations. Off white, beige or khaki tones are good neutral choices.

• Avoid sunburn and tan lines which are not flattering on anyone. Also be wary of spray tans and self-tanner which often look uneven or unnatural.

• Fresh hair cuts need a week or two to look their best. Make sure nails are well groomed.

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the season and location for your session. Your wardrobe choices should reflect both. You'll want to select items that reflect the activities and colors that would naturally occur in that location.

For example, for beach sessions, you will most likely be shooting at sunset. In this scenario, a mix of neutrals and pastel colors that mimic the sunset make sense to compliment the beauty of the scenery. Or, neutrals mixed with blues & greens that echo the sky and water would also look great. With the wind, water and sand in mind, you'll want to choose styles that allow you to move freely whether standing, sitting or playing along the shore. And plan to ditch the shoes! They just look out of place, so wear sandals that are easy to take off.

Perfectly coiffed hair and formal attire at the beach can look and feel uncomfortable too. Whereas, styles that are fun and relaxed reflect the casual atmosphere, and will prevent fussing over details that have come undone. It’s okay to look fabulous - if you want to dress things up a little, go for it! But, remember that wing tips or heels on the beach just don’t work so well. Effortless elegance is what you want instead.

Similarly, sessions in a wooded area would require appropriate footwear to allow walking, hiking, and protecting feet. Colors that enhance fall foliage or compliment earthy greens and browns make sense here. If your session is in an urban location, something on trend and sophisticated may fit if you'll be downtown on the city streets. Or, creative and funky might win the day if you'll be in an arts district, or hip local microbrewery. It all depends on your style and the environment. Your wardrobe choices should reflect both, flatter your features, and help you feel your best. 

For more inspiration, be sure to check out the Pinterest Board below with styles and color palettes that work well together. I also have boards for What to Wear for Engagement Sessions, What to Wear for Maternity Sessions, What to Wear Kids, What to Wear for Senior Portraits and What to Wear for a Beach Session.  I am always happy to review your choices with you! Feel free to snap some pics with your phone and email them to me with any questions you have before your session. Happy Shopping!

One final thought: A carefree attitude toward things once you get everyone ready and on location is a must! Be ready to relax, play and even get a bit wet or dirty before it's all said and done - especially with young ones. I never push kids too much or force them to do things because I don't want them to dread photo sessions, and neither do you! Kids who are dressed in stiff, “formal” clothes, and then forbidden from exploring, digging, climbing, splashing and being themselves, are always very unhappy kiddos. That makes for rather unpleasant expressions and memories for everyone. 

I always, always, always want clients to leave my sessions with giggles in their bellies and happy memories in their hearts. So once you've done your part to be ready, let go and just enjoy yourself. I'll take care of the rest. 

If you are in the Hampton Roads area, and would like to schedule your lifestyle photo session, contact Melissa Bliss Photography today!

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What to wear for your photo shoot, photo session tips, wardrobe ideas

Family Lifestyle Photo Shoot, Virginia Beach Photographer

Family Lifestyle Photo Shoot, Virginia Beach Photographer

Hey friends! Today I have the sweetest little family photo shoot to share with you! This gorgeous family of 3 contacted me over a year ago to book a family lifestyle session. Unfortunately, mom and little man came down with a virus, and we had to reschedule. Because of their work schedules, travel plans, and various other life events, it took us a while to find a date that worked.

But I’m so glad we made it happen because we had the best session!! First off, they are absolutely gorgeous. I LOVE the rich jewel tones they chose for their wardrobe.

Plus, they are So adorable together! I had the best time with them.

And this little guy was full of personality - what a cutie!

All the love this family shares just warmed my heart.

Little ones grow up so fast! (I know from first-hand experience since my first “baby” can now look down from 7” above me!) I’m so happy we made time to capture these sweet moments for them.

Thank you, Sathia family, for trusting me with your family memories! It was a joy to spend time with you. I hope you keep these moments close to your hearts. - XOXOX, Melissa

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If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area and would like to schedule your lifestyle photography session, contact Melissa Bliss Photography today!

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