... on the beams of an old, weathered dock. Her water skis anchored at her side, Alex broke into a smile as she reflected on her journey over the past four years. The camera's lens told the story of the raw emotion in this moment. And as the shutter clicked, it captured an individual on the edge of adventure.

Golden Hour  

the Graduate experience

The

Have you ever been anxious during one of the best experiences of your life because you were afraid you wouldn't be able to absorb and remember just how wonderful it was? When it comes to your graduation, I never want you to worry about that again. I will get to know what makes you YOU so that I can capture your unique story and personality. Together, we'll plan an unforgettable experience that is both fun and intimate, and most importantly, authentic





Scroll down to learn more about The Graduate Experience

Warm Glow

cast a

Alex, a spirited graduate with a love for the water, leaned confidently... 

on the horizon.

One

Everyone has a vision for how they want their photos to turn out. It may be a single image that keeps popping up in their head that they're dying to re-create, a setting that they've fallen in love with, or a Pinterest board they've created. And if you choose to reach out to me, there's a reason why you think I may fit this vision. This initial step begins our exploration of the question: "are we a good match for each other?" Hit that button below to get started!

Reaching out

Process

the graduate experience

step

One

Everyone has a vision for how they want their photos to turn out. It may be a single image that keeps popping up in their head that they're dying to re-create, a setting that they've fallen in love with, or a Pinterest board they've created. And if you choose to reach out to me, there's a reason why you think I may fit this vision. This step in the process is to help us clarify that and decide if we're a good match for each other!  So bring all of those lingering questions and hesitations. It's also great to include any members of the family that will be invested in the result! Hit that button below to get started.

Reaching out

Process

the graduate experience

step

Two

Now is the time when I'll really dig in and learn about YOU! We can do this over the phone, video chat, or even grab a cup of coffee :) It's also great to include any members of the family that will be invested in the result!  I want to know more about personality and what we can do to bring you out of your shell. We'll talk about your day-to-day life and what you do for fun. From that, we'll work to identify shooting locations hold significance for you. Wardrobe? I'm there with you every step to help you dress in a way that expresses who you are and how you want to remember this moment! 

Planning together

step

Two

Now is the time when I'll really dig in and learn about YOU! We can do this over the phone, video chat, or even grab a cup of coffee :) I want to know more about how we can highlight your personality and show off your accomplishments and hobbies. We'll talk about your day-to-day life and what you do for fun. From there, we'll identify shooting locations that hold significance for you. Wardrobe? I'm there with you every step to help you dress in a way that expresses who you are and how you want to remember this moment! 

Planning together

step

tell me about the

Three

Get ready to have a blast doing what you love most, because that is exactly what we are aiming to capture today! Play, laugh, and genuinely enjoy yourselves as you take in this incredible experience! We may plan the session around some of your day-to-day activities or hobbies, and I will fill in any gaps with a few fun photo-shoot exercises. Want make sure you get some standard posed shots too? No problem; I've got you covered. 

THE LIFESTYLE SESSION EXPERIENCE

step

tell me about the

Three

Get ready to have a blast doing what you love most, because that is exactly what we are aiming to capture today! Play, laugh, and genuinely enjoy yourselves as you take in this incredible experience! We may plan the session around some of your day-to-day activities or hobbies, and I will fill in any gaps with a few fun photo-shoot exercises. Want make sure you get some standard posed shots too? No problem; I've got you covered. 

THE LIFESTYLE SESSION EXPERIENCE

step

organic 

a unique,

Experience

for the nostalgic soul...

Lifestyle photography is unique in that it builds the picture around the person; not the other way around. For this reason, we'll meet in person or over zoom to get a full picture of your story and personalities.  I'll guide you in choosing locations, wardrobe, and planning activities for the shoot, complete with snacks and prizes for your other kids!
           

A carefully curated lineup of photos, artfully displayed in a magical slideshow accompanied by heartwarming music with your loved ones surrounding you. Once you've chosen your favorite photographs, they populate to an online store, complete with professional framing & graduation announcements. Within a few minutes, you've gotten your announcements done and your Christmas presents to boot! There are tears when your family open their gifts and they share in your joy as they have shared in every step of your journey. 

Imagine...

Professional printing & framing recommendations to compliment your home décor


Bespoke slideshow-viewing experience for your gallery reveal

Luxury photo albums, frames & print products available from your gallery with just a few clicks. 

In-person pre-session consultation or zoom

White glove service: wardrobe assistance, location choices, shoot activities, and more

Prizes and snacks for your other children

Let's start narrating your beautiful story!

or

organic 

a unique,

Experience

for the nostalgic soul...

Lifestyle photography is unique in that it builds the picture around the person; not the other way around. For this reason, we'll meet in person or over zoom to get a full picture of your story and personality.  I'll guide you in choosing locations, wardrobe, and planning activities for the shoot.
           

A carefully curated lineup of photos, artfully displayed in a magical slideshow accompanied by inspiring music, with your loved ones surrounding you. Once you've chosen your favorite photographs, they populate into an online store, complete with professional framing & graduation announcements. Within a few minutes, you've gotten  your announcements done and your Christmas presents to boot! There are tears when your family open their gifts and they share in your joy as they have shared in every step of your journey.

Imagine...

Bespoke slideshow-viewing experience for your gallery reveal

Graduation Announcement orders with a few clicks! 

In-person pre-session consultation or zoom

White glove service: wardrobe assistance, location choices, and more

Pre-planned activities & organic-style direction during the shoot

Let's start celebrating your story!

Luxury photo albums, frames & print products available from your gallery with just a few clicks. 

or

-The mcmillon family

"The pictures are beautiful, the quality very professional. Melanie's helpful services get a grade A in my book!"

-ken

"Melanie had great communication with us; she was honest about the pricing and the pictures were beautiful"

life

Commemorate

your

 with my exquisite collection of                  luxury photo albums, frames,
          and print products. 

Choose from an array of sumptuous materials, from genuine leather to silk-bound covers, ensuring your photo album is as extraordinary as the moments it holds.

Frames are more than mere encasements; they are windows into your most treasured moments. Whether it's the sleek sophistication of metal or the warmth of wood, my frames are designed to complement any decor.

Step into the realm of tangible nostalgia with my premium print products. From museum-quality prints to awe-inspiring canvases, we offer a range of exquisite options to bring your photographs to life. 

creating a legacy that lasts forever.

Elevate 

your cherished moments

 Turn your photographs into 

Works of Art,

Turn your photographs into Works of Art, creating a legacy that lasts forever.

Mamma of 3 fur babies

singer, piano & violin player

world Traveler

based in Socal

fun facts:

I'm SAVI, and I believe in the beauty and power of YOUR authentic story. My specialty is creating custom experiences that will reflect the beauty in your life and yield wall-worthy images for your home.  Click below to learn more about me and my philosophy.  

Meet the Artist

Mamma of 3 fur babies

singer, piano & violin player

world Traveler

based in Socal

fun facts:

I'm SAVI, and I believe in the beauty and power of YOUR authentic story. My specialty is creating custom experiences that will reflect the beauty in your life and yield wall-worthy images for your home.  Click below to learn more about me and my philosophy.  

Meet the Artist

You can expect your gallery reveal within two weeks of your session date. If your package includes enhanced retouching, it will take an additional two weeks for completing this detailed process. 

When will I receive my photos?


In order to hold a date on my calendar, I ask for a 20% deposit on the total fee, which is due as soon as we both sign  my photography agreement. All of this can be done virtually. 

What is required to reserve a date with you?

 I always watch the forecast as the session date approaches for any signs of bad weather. If it looks like a 40% chance or more of rain, I'll contact you and offer to reschedule at no additional cost!

what if it rains?


Absolutely! My packages include up to 6 people (or pets) in a session. In fact, I think that highlighting the connections between you and your loved ones is an valuable & often overlooked element of the graduation experience. If you would like to include more individuals beyond that number, we can work that out as well! Just describe your vision to me before the shoot, and we'll make it happen :) 

Can i include family, friends, or pets?

Q&A

Got more questions? 

investment

Your photoshoot should one of your favorite memories about graduating. That's why one of my primary goals for our time together... is FUN! All of my packages are structured with that in mind, and I also offer some additional perks to enhance your overall experience, such as:


Packages
starting at $260

  • Wardrobe and home décor consultations
  • Refreshments to keep you energized during the session
  • A curated slideshow experience of the shoot highlights
  • Print credits towards graduation
  • A surprise gift to add some magic to your day! announcements
  • Wardrobe and home décor consultations 
  • Refreshments to keep you energized during the session
  • A curated slideshow experience of the shoot highlights
  • A surprise gift to add some magic to your day!
  • Print credits towards graduation announcements

Click here to inquire about graduation sessions!

I'll be in touch shortly

Thank You!

let's connect

Your answers to the form below will be a key factor as we explore if we’re a good fit for each other. You can expect a response within 24-48 hours, and I’ll send you everything you need to lock in your date! 
Please contact me by phone or email if the form is not working for you ;-)

Featured graduate Session

view the latest

Take a behind-the-scenes peek at some of my more classic portraits from this timeless shoot at Scripps College campus in Claremont, CA. With a wide variety of structural and natural backdrops, Scripps is a wonderful option for formal Senior Pictures!