http://www.melenalawsonphotography.com/

Melena Lawson Photography, Lansing, MI (2025)

01/15/2025

Books Are Open for 2025 Storyteller Sessions! ✨

I’m thrilled to announce that 2025 bookings are officially OPEN for Storyteller Sessions! 📸

This is your chance to reserve a spot for a heartfelt, storytelling experience that captures the genuine, beautiful, and timeless moments of your family the way it deserves to be captured!

I am also SO excited to announce that for those who book theirs now, I am gifting a hobby lobby giftcard to use on frames/details for your gallery walls!!

Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Reach out with the month you’d like to book.
2️⃣ Pay your deposit to secure your spot.
3️⃣ I’ll reach out one month before your session to finalize a date that works best for you.

Note: These will be on weekday evenings! I will make exceptions for some weekend dates for special circumstances.

🌟 Why Book Early?

Spots are limited, and they go fast! This simplifies the booking process for me and allows me to plan the best possible experience for you and your loved ones!

I'm taking on 2-3 of these a month! Several months are already half booked with families who reached out in 2024, so definitely do not wait.

I know that's a lot of information, but I want you to have everything you need to go ahead and reserve your preferred month and lock in your session!

📅 Message me to book your month now!

01/14/2025

First Looks Aren’t Just for Brides and Grooms! 😊

A first look doesn’t have to be just for the bride and groom! There are other meaningful ways to include a first look in your day. Here are a few of my favorite options...

Parent First Look: Share a heartfelt moment with your mom, dad, or both as they see you in your wedding attire for the first time! Daddy/daughter first looks are so sweet 🥺

Bridal Party First Look: Let your bridesmaids or groomsmen have a special reveal moment. It’s perfect for capturing their excitement and support! I love this option!! A precious moment for you and your closest friends!

Sibling First Look: If you’re especially close to a sibling, this can be a touching way to honor your relationship! I know when I see my sister in her dress this year I'm going to melt into a puddle, no doubt.

Child First Look: For couples with children, a first look with your kids can be an emotional and joyful part of the day. This can be so sweet!

These moments add depth to your wedding story and create even more opportunities for meaningful photos!

Choosing to have a first look is a deeply personal decision, and with the right photographer by your side, you can make the most of this emotional moment on your wedding day!

Read more about this and MORE in my latest blog post:

Should You Do a First Look? Complete Guide to Wedding Day First Looks!

https://melenalawsonphotography.com/2025/01/13/first-look-wedding-guide/

If you are still looking for a photographer for your 2025/2026 wedding, DM to get started!! ❤️

01/13/2025

✨ First Looks: Everything You Need to Know! ✨

Curious about whether a first look is right for your wedding day? My latest blog post dives into:

💍 Pros and cons of doing a first look
💍 Tips to make the moment unforgettable
💍 How choosing the right photographer makes all the difference

If you’re planning your big day, this is a must-read!

https://melenalawsonphotography.com/2025/01/13/first-look-wedding-guide/

01/12/2025

October 18, 2025 is officially booked! Congratulations Caylee & Takoda! So excited for you! 🎉🥂

01/10/2025

I just adore first looks!! They are so, so special! Some couples opt out of these and that's completely fine, but here's why a First Look might be perfect for you:

A Private Moment Together: Share a quiet, special moment just the two of you before the whirlwind begins.

Capture Real Emotion: The raw, genuine reaction of seeing each other for the first time can create unforgettable photos.

Ease Your Nerves: The First Look gives you both a chance to connect and calm those pre-ceremony jitters.

Enjoy More Time Together: You’ll have a peaceful moment before the day’s busy events, making your connection even stronger.

We’re diving deeper into this on the blog this Monday, so stay tuned!! 💖

01/08/2025

My promise to you: to capture the heart of your wedding day through unscripted moments. The laughter shared between loved ones, the tears of joy as vows are exchanged, the quiet glances between the bride and groom that speak volumes. These are the memories that make your day uniquely yours.... authentic, raw, and beautiful.

Will I set up a few moments with gentle posing prompts? Sure. Will I make sure your phone is out of your pocket, your hair is in place, and your dress is perfectly fluffed? Absolutely.

But more importantly, I will step back, let the moments unfold naturally, and capture your story just as it is- genuine and unforgettable!

Hiring us as your wedding photography team will mean beautiful portraits, yes, but it will also mean hundreds of beautiful unscripted moments captured. Moments that are the heart and backbone of your day. Memories... Sweet memories that you NEVER want to forget!

DM to get started!!

01/07/2025

I can never stop swooning over the little things at weddings. Details are my absolute jam! Just like the bride’s elegant dainty jewelry, the carefully chosen florals, and the warm, inviting atmosphere of the venue. These details weren’t just beautiful...they told a STORY of love, intention, and celebration.

Capturing moments like this makes my heart so, SO full. It’s not just about the big moments (though I love those too!)... it’s about all the little things that make your day yours.

If you dream of a wedding full of personal touches captured with intention, let’s chat! I’d love to hear what you’re planning and help you tell your story in a way you’ll treasure forever. 💛

Don't wait to book! DM to get started!!

01/06/2025

✨ The Asburys ✨

Maggie & Justin’s day was everything a wedding day should be- sweet, genuine, and filled with so much joy. From the moment we arrived, their excitement to marry each other was so contagious. Their excitement to say “I do” was infectious, and their love for each other shone through in every glance, touch, and laugh. It was the kind of love that makes you believe in forever!

Set against the breathtaking winter views of the New River Gorge, their wedding was the perfect mix of scenic beauty and heartfelt moments. From golden hour portraits to the little in-between glances they shared, it was clear they were made for each other.

We just love serving couples and seeing their love stories unfold! If you’re planning your wedding and want photos that capture the real, authentic love between you- those candid smiles, happy tears, and unforgettable moments- Brandon and I would LOVE to capture your story!!

💌 2025 & 2026 wedding dates are booking now! DM or fill out an inquiry form on our website to get started!

01/01/2025

The snow calls for a little impromptu photoshoot with my girl!

Did she hate it? yes.
Did I pay her? also, yes.
Did we freeze? another yes.
Was it worth it? 1,000 times yes.

Happy New Year, by the way! ;)
One of my goals is to photograph my own kids more this year! We're already off to a wonderful start.

Drop some of your goals/intentions below!

01/01/2025

Winner chosen!

Congrats Jordan Lambert!

DM to claim! 🎉🎉🎉

12/31/2024

Engaged and suddenly stressed about choosing the right wedding photography? 😬

Not to worry, I’ve got you covered!

In my latest blog post, I’m sharing 10 must-ask questions before booking your photographer.

⬇️

https://melenalawsonphotography.com/2024/12/31/top-10-questions-to-ask-before-booking-your-wedding-photographer/

⬆️

From understanding their approach to handling stressful situations, to knowing how exactly they protect your photos, these tips will help ensure you're making the right choice. 📸

Check out the full post for all the details—link in bio!

ALSO, how cute are these two? I promise to be better about sharing my work this year! Moments like these deserve to be shared. 💗

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!! 🥺

📸✨

Melena Lawson Photography

01/15/2025

01/14/2025

01/13/2025

01/12/2025

01/10/2025

01/08/2025

01/07/2025

01/06/2025

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01/01/2025

12/31/2024

12/27/2024

12/23/2024

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12/19/2024

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12/10/2024

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