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

If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area and would like to schedule a lifestyle session, contact me today!

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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 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, or 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!

Creative Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer serving Virginia and beyond.

Melissa Bliss Photography – Authentic Stories in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

Lifestyle photographer Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Williamsburg, VA

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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Virginia Beach Photographer - First Landing State Park Engagement Photos

Virginia Beach Photographer - First Landing State Park Engagement Photos

I recently met the loveliest couple at First Landing State Park for a winter engagement photo session. Morgan and Eric moved to Virginia a few months ago so they could be together during Eric’s stay here with the Navy.

They recently got engaged, yay!, and wanted to celebrate with some beautiful engagement photos. After I showed them some examples of my favorite locations for engagement pictures in Hampton Roads, they decided that First Landing State Park was the perfect setting for their photo session.

We headed to the park on a sunny afternoon in January, to capture some creative engagement portraits along the shore and wooded trails.

One of the reasons that First Landing State Park is a favorite spot to take photos, is that it offers such a fantastic variety of coves and overlooks for unique photo opportunities. I love that it looks a little different each time I visit. I also love the dreamy Spanish Moss handing from the trees.

One of the best things about shooting there in the winter, is that the park is pretty quiet, and there is much less foot traffic than in the warmer months.

Though they were admittedly a bit nervous about posing for photos at the start, Morgan and Eric were naturals in front of the camera. I guided them into some loose poses and had them focus on each other. That was all it took to create a little bit of magic. They are absolutely gorgeous together.

We had such a lovely afternoon together, and it didn’t take long before we walked away with a memory card full of gorgeous images.

I truly enjoyed getting to know this delightful couple! It was wonderful to have the opportunity to create some unique engagement pictures for them.

Congratulations Morgan & Eric! Thank you for trusting me to photograph your engagement session, and to create some memorable photos for you! - XOXO, Melissa

Melissa Bliss Photography - Authentic Moments in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

If you would like to find out more about our engagement photography services, contact Melissa Bliss Photography today!  Serving VA & NC. Available for travel destinations worldwide.

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Pleasure House Point Family Maternity Photo Session - Virginia Beach

Pleasure House Point Family Maternity Photo Session - Virginia Beach

It is always super exciting when families come back to see me again and again. I absolutely adore watching them grow and change over the years, and the connection we make is priceless.

And, when one of my favorite families come back for a session and tells me they are expecting a new baby? Well, that just melts my heart into a giant puddle.

I have had the honor of photographing the lovely Groy family for several years now, and I just love them more and more each time I see them!

I met them when their first babe was just a tiny peanut, and now they are expecting baby #3!

Mom and Dad are the absolute coolest, and they certainly make crazy adorable kiddos!

I can’t wait to meet their newest addition!

Brother and Sister are pretty excited too.

Even though it was super chilly when we had our photo session at Pleasure House Point in Virginia Beach, this crew made the best of it. Their love and light just shine through in all of their images.

This has to be one of my absolute favorite family sessions to date. And that’s saying something, after 6 years and hundreds of families in front of my lens.

They are so adorable! Ha ha. I love it!

Thank you, thank you, Groy family! You guys are the bee’s knees. I can’t wait to see you again! - XOXO, Melissa

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Melissa Bliss Photography – Authentic Moments in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area and would like to schedule your creative photography experience, contact me today!

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Beautiful Historic Post Office Wedding - VA Wedding Photographer

Beautiful Historic Post Office Wedding - VA Wedding Photographer

Regina and Josh had the most beautiful wedding at The Historic Post Office in Hampton. Today I’m happy to share some sneak peeks of this lovely event with you!

This was a destination wedding. Regina & Josh no longer live in Hampton Roads, but they came home to celebrate their marriage with family and friends. I was so thrilled to be able to work with this sweet couple! They, and their families, are such genuine and kind people. And, The Historic Post office in Hampton is a really beautiful venue for a wedding!

Regina and Josh had their wedding ceremony at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church at Fort Monroe - another uniquely beautiful location!

Every last detail of this wedding was simply stunning! The vendor team did an amazing job pulling off this event.

The entire wedding day was so full of love and joy! It truly was an amazing celebration. Congratulations Regina & Josh! I wish you many happy years together. - XOXO, Melissa

Ceremony: St. Mary's Star of the Sea, Fort Monroe, Fr. Steve Deleon
Reception: The Historic Post Office, Hampton
Coordinator: Christy Hooper, Truly Yours
Florist: Costco, Eve Wheeler
Hair Stylist: Lisa, Hello Beautiful Studio
Makeup Artist: The Makeup School by Sarah Rillion
Caterer: Montero's 
Bakery: Incredible Edibles
Event Rentals: Distinctive Event Rentals
Entertainment: Astro Entertainment
Videographer: Jony Photos
Photography: Melissa Bliss Photography 
Second Shooter: Chava Lind Photography

Melissa Bliss Photography – Authentic Moments in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

If you would like to find out more about our wedding photography services, contact us today! Serving VA & NC. Available for travel destinations worldwide.

Virginia Wedding Photographer, Destination Wedding Photographer, Williamsburg Wedding Photographer, Norfolk Wedding Photographers, Virginia Beach Wedding Photographers, Sandbridge Wedding Photographer, Portsmouth Wedding Photographers

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art Wedding - Ali & Alex Part 2

Virginia Beach Museum of Contemporary Art Wedding - Ali & Alex Part 2

When last I blogged, we were in the midst of Alex and Ali’s beautiful Virginia MOCA wedding, at the Museum of Contemporary Art near the Virginia Beach oceanfront. If you missed Part 1 of this series, you can check that out here.

I left off after the bride and groom portraits in that pretty late afternoon light, so we’ll begin here with the ceremony. Alex and Ali were married in the Rodriguez Pavilion at the museum, which features walls of windows and a stunning 16 foot Dale Chihuly Chandelier. I loved how they personalized their ceremony with vows they wrote themselves. There were laughs and tears all the way through. Before long, it was official. They were Mr. & Mrs. Miller!

Post ceremony, we headed back outside for formal portraits of the wedding party, and the families of the bride and groom.

Then, the reception kicked off with a bang, as the wedding party danced their way into the Atrium and the bride and groom had their first dance.

Next, there were parent dances, which always kick me in the feels.

Followed by dinner, and several hilarious toasts.

And lots more dancing, photo booth fun, and all out partying before the cake was cut.

This wedding was SO full of life and love and fun! It was an amazing celebration of two very cool people, and the love they share. Congrats Ali & Alex! I hope you continue to celebrate many happy years together!

- XOXO, Melissa

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Virginia Beach is a beautiful venue for weddings and events. Check it out, plus all of these other great vendors too!

Wedding coordinator: Beth Couillard, Richmond, VA

Officiant: Lisa Chisholm (friend)

DJ/Entertainment: Riza Aleemi (friend)

Wedding florals: Flowers at Hilltop

Wedding cake: Incredible Edibles

Invitations: Minted.com

Catering: Creative Catering of VA

Bride’s Make Up Artist: Vanessa Underwood (friend)

Bride’s Hair: Dana Ange, Gary Allen Salon

Videographers: Live Oak Films

Wedding Photography: Melissa Bliss Photography

Second Shooter: Rita Hsu, Perspective Photography

Melissa Bliss Photography is a Creative Wedding and Lifestyle Photographer serving Hampton Roads, VA & Travel Destinations World Wide

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