http://www.melenalawsonphotography.com/

Melena Lawson Photography, Lansing, MI (2025)

12/27/2024

✨ Reflecting on 2024 + Dreaming of 2025 ✨

This year has been one for the books! I had the honor of capturing stories for so many incredible clients—new faces and lifelong clients alike. I took a huge leap and went FULL TIME with photography (!!), rebranded my website, and filled our walls with family photos that make me smile daily. I made space for beautiful friendships, read some truly amazing books, and poured into my kids’ farm school, watching them and their classmates grow. But it wasn’t all easy...I faced burnout and walked through some of the hardest moments of my life along the way. Through it all, God saw my family through and showed us so much love and grace. It’s been a year of growth, tears, joy, and so much gratitude.

As I look toward 2025, my heart is full of intentions and excitement. I want to keep telling heartfelt stories, host more time with loved ones, and grow closer to the Lord.

Photog goals & info:

* I want to challenge myself to keep learning and growing! Monthly challenges and film are on my radar!

* I hope to book 6 more weddings (I just adore love stories 🥰)

* welcome more "Grow With Me" clients

* expand my branding experience

* book more personality sessions (seriously so special)

* continue educating you about the value of prints, because they are truly priceless.

* Mini sessions will no longer be offered regularly, regular pricing is listed on my website.

* I will be limiting bookings on Sundays! Saturdays will be reserved for my wedding couples unless otherwise specified.

* If you reach out while I’m “clocked out,” I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m back in my office.

* Oh, and... I forgot about announcing my giveaway winner. 😂 Stay tuned for the announcement on January 1!

Thank you for making 2024 such a beautiful year. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to capture more memories with you in 2025.

Here’s to living the dream and chasing it even further! 💛

12/23/2024

I just shared these beauties! 🎄

I had a very long work day today, but feel so accomplished and ready to take some time to enjoy the holiday season with my family.

I'll be back briefly Friday to share some highlights from 2024 and some 2025 info and intentions. Much love to you all! Enjoy your families and cherish every moment!

So much love! ❄️

12/23/2024

A magical snowy proposal in downtown Bluefield, WV! ✨❄️

What Shi thought was just a winter photoshoot turned into the surprise of a lifetime when Trent got down on one knee beneath the twinkling lights and falling snow. It was such a special moment to witness—especially with our kids there to watch Aunt Shi’s big milestone unfold. 💍💖

The perfect blend of Christmas cheer, love, and family made this night unforgettable. So grateful to have been the one to capture it for them.

Congratulations, Shi & Trent! 🥂✨

Read more about this magical proposal:

https://melenalawsonphotography.com/2024/12/23/a-magical-snowy-proposal-in-bluefield-congratulations-shi-trent/

12/19/2024

Offering these cutie last-minute Christmas Minis in front of the Bluefield Granada! Same day delivery. Discounted rate for Christmas! ❤️

4 spots left, one already booked.
DM to claim!

12/18/2024

Lovinia Rose🌹

This precious newborn session marked the beginning of the Grow With Me experience, and I’m so honored to capture her journey through this first year of life.

Her parents’ journey—from small-town dreamers to successful business owners—is nothing short of inspiring. Their love and devotion to their daughter are palpable, and it’s clear she has two incredible role models to guide her through life.

Little Lovinia is as lovely as can be, with a quiet strength and beauty that melts your heart. Watching her grow this year will be such a privilege, and I can already tell she’s destined for great things.

Thank you, McMillions, for trusting me to tell your story.

12/12/2024

NEW BLOG POST!

https://melenalawsonphotography.com/2024/12/12/how-to-plan-your-dream-west-virginia-wedding/

I’ve always believed that a wedding should reflect not just love but also the place where your hearts meet. West Virginia is more than just a beautiful backdrop—it’s a place full of stunning landscapes, heartfelt connections, and unforgettable experiences.

I just shared a new blog post: “How to Plan Your Dream WV Wedding.” It’s a guide filled with real ideas, local gems, and personal touches to make your celebration feel authentic, unique, and true to you.

Whether you dream of a rustic farm setting, a scenic mountain view, or a cozy, intimate gathering, this guide is here to help. Let’s make sure your WV wedding is not just a day—but a story worth remembering forever. 🌲❤️

Tap the link in my bio to dive in! 🥂✨

12/10/2024

Big News, Friends! 🎉✨

Yesterday, I celebrated my 31st birthday, and today I’m thrilled to share three special announcements that feel like the best birthday gift ever:

Drum roll, please...

1️⃣ I’m officially going FULL-TIME with photography! This is a dream I’ve held close to my heart for years, and now it’s my reality. I’m so grateful for every family, couple, and story I’ve had the privilege to capture. Your love and trust have made this possible, and I can’t wait to pour even more heart and soul into serving you. 💛

2️⃣ I've been pouring my heart into my new website design and I'm thrilled to announce that it is now LIVE! I wanted it to be a beautiful reflection of my work, heart, and brand and I'm so happy with how it turned out!

Check it out here: www.melenalawsonphotography.com

3️⃣ GIVEAWAY ALERT! To celebrate, I’m giving away a FREE Storyteller Session—perfect for capturing your family’s unique story. Here’s how to enter:

* Follow my page
* Like this post
* Tag a friend who loves meaningful photography (each tag = 1 entry)

*Bonus: Share this post to your stories and tag me for 5 extra entries!

This is my way of saying THANK YOU for supporting a local artist and small business. 💕 Entries close December 20, and I can’t wait to announce the winner!

Your support makes this dream possible, and I’m beyond grateful!! 🥺

📸✨

12/06/2024

It’s the small, subtle touches that make a wedding unforgettable—the special jewelry she chose to wear, the way he looks at her, the little moments that speak volumes. I loved capturing this beautiful day at Fincastle Country Club in Bluefield, Virginia. I can’t wait for an upcoming January wedding with one of my sweet couples and to kick off a busy spring season ahead! If you are recently engaged or still searching for the right wedding photographer, let's hop on a call! I'd love to share more about the experience we provide! 💕✨

12/01/2024

From fluffing your dress to capturing the sparkle in your eyes, I’m not just your photographer- I’m your hype girl, your calm amidst the chaos, and the one making sure you feel as incredible as you look.

This bride's message after seeing her photos says it all: 'I've never felt more beautiful.' 🥹💛 Definitely made me cry in appreciation for what I get to do!

When you hire me, you're not just getting photos-you’re getting an experience that celebrates you! Every detail, every emotion, every part of your story is documented with care and love. Because you deserve to see yourself exactly as your loved ones do-radiant, joyful, and so, so very beautiful.

You deserve to feel this way on your wedding day!!

Questions? DM! I'm so excited to be adding more 2025/2026 couples!

11/27/2024

Feeling extra grateful this Thanksgiving 🍁💛 God has blessed my family beyond measure and has given me the opportunity to live my dream, do what I love, and meet so many amazing people along the way. To all my incredible clients, thank you for trusting me to capture your stories. Your support means the world and allows me to keep doing what I’m passionate about. 1 week and 5 days away from announcing something really special. Stay tuned! Until then, my family wishes you all a beautiful day filled with love, laughter, and lots of pie! 🥧✨

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. - Psalm 107:1

11/26/2024

For as long as I can remember, I've wanted photos of my grandmother reading her Bible. Today, spur of the moment, we were able to make it happen.

As soon as she opened it up she did what she always does—her sweet soul couldn’t help but overflow with joy. She instantly started singing, talking about how good God is, and praising Him.

That’s her. That’s her sweet personality—the precious woman with faith, love, and a song always in her heart.

These photos are more than just pictures; they’re memories we will cherish forever, reminders of her unwavering faith and the beauty of her spirit. I’m so thankful to have captured these moments with her.

11/21/2024

There’s something so beautiful about capturing a mother as she prepares to welcome a new life while cherishing the sweet bond she shares with her little ones.

These cuddles, giggles, and whispers are the heart of your family’s story, and they’re the moments I live to document. Each photograph is a reminder of the love that grows, not just in size, but in depth. 🌿

Mama, let’s tell your story—the joy of pregnancy, the magic of those little hands holding yours, and the beauty of the season you’re in. DM me to create something unforgettable for you and your family. ✨

11/20/2024

Family, fall, and forever friends. 🍂✨ This session with dear friends—and a fellow photographer—was a highlight of the season. The crisp fall air and vibrant autumn colors made the perfect backdrop for capturing their love and laughter.

Photographing you and your story is more than just a passion—it's my dream come true. To freeze moments in time, to document love in its purest form, and to preserve the stories that mean everything? It’s an honor I don’t take lightly.

This fall has been such a whirlwind, full of cherished moments and beautiful stories, but as the leaves settle, I'm ready to embrace the stillness of winter. ❄️ A season to reflect, recharge, and dream of new beginnings on the horizon. 💛

Stay tuned for an announcement coming December 9th!

11/15/2024

Dedication post to my sweet second shooter and business partner.

For buying me my first DSLR 12 years ago. For telling me everyday I can do it. For doing it WITH me.

I love you.

11/13/2024

Sit tight for a second, because it's time for a heart to heart.

I was talking to a friend today and have realized that I spent too much time comparing myself to other photographers. How they edit, their posing style, their motivations. I could go on and on. While there is nothing wrong with learning from others and continuing to improve your craft, you cannot let comparison make you lose sight of what makes you unique. You can't let it be the thief of your joy.

The truth is, I could change my style, my approach, my locations, my gear, etc.

but none of it would matter if I wasn’t staying true to what lights me up inside.

At the core, it’s not about the external changes—it’s about creating work that feels genuine and reflects who I am and who I want to be. That’s where the true connection with my clients and my art comes from.

Staying true to my vision and capturing moments the way I see them is what makes my work meaningful. It's my voice, my perspective, and the stories I tell that set me apart.

Your stories, your unique and beautiful stories, are what makes this experience different. Those who value that kind of authenticity are the clients I want to work with and the ones who I welcome!

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about being like anyone else. It’s about embracing my way of seeing, feeling, and sharing stories. It’s real, it’s honest, and it’s me. And when you look back on your photos, I want you to feel every moment all over again, knowing that it was captured by someone who believes in the beauty of capturing your story authentically all the while staying authentic to herself.

With love,

Melena

11/09/2024

Motherhood is a story told through moments. It’s the quiet whispers during bedtime, the laughter that spills from kitchen dance parties, and the comfort found in a simple touch when words can’t reach. I capture these fragments, preserving the love, chaos, and wonder that fill your days. These aren’t just photos; they’re chapters of a tale only you can tell—a tale of love that runs deep. Let me help you hold onto the little things that one day will mean everything... just a little longer.

DM to learn more about my Storyteller Collections!

11/08/2024

✨ Black Friday Wedding Photography Deal! ✨

Dreaming of beautiful wedding photos? Make it happen this holiday season with an exclusive Black Friday offer!

Book your wedding photography with me by December 1st and get $500 OFF any wedding package!

📸 Custom, storytelling photography that captures the magic of your big day
💍 Elegant, timeless images you’ll cherish forever
🎁 Perfect for those planning their 2024 wedding!

This limited-time offer won’t last long—book by December 1st to lock in your savings!

Ready to say "I do" to beautiful photos? DM me to secure your date and start planning!

11/08/2024

Pricing & Structure will be changing in 2025, so please reach out if you are interested in a Storytelling Collection at these current prices! Gift cards available.

I also do extended family sessions, but pricing looks different.

More information on each of these packages here:

https://melenalawsonphotography.mypixieset.com/portraits/

Melena Lawson Photography

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