A Warm Welcome
Hi, I’m Mel, and I’m so happy you’re here.
I’ve been meaning to start this blog for a long time, but life just has a way of slowing these things down, I’m sure you can relate.
Quick introductions first - I am a lifestyle photographer specialising in newborns, families and personal branding. I love capturing real life as it unfolds; the small moments, the in-between bits, the genuine connection between people. This blog is where I’ll share stories from behind the lens, helpful tips for planning sessions, inspiration, and reflections on the beautiful chaos of everyday life.
Whether you’re a fresh parent, a family wanting relaxed photos that show who they really are, or a small business owner looking to elevate your brand imagery with lifestyle shots, I hope you’ll find something here that feels welcoming, helpful, and true.
My Journey Into Photography
People often ask how I became a photographer, and the truth is that it wasn’t one grand moment, but a collection of small ones.
I’ve always loved taking photos, especially the candid ones where you see real connection and emotion. But I personally don’t have many family photos, and only a handful of my dad, who passed away a few years ago. It is something that I wish I had more of, and that I believe every family deserves.
More recently, my daughter was born, and I have a camera roll full of snaps of her, but barely any that include me. I’m not often in front of the camera, but let’s be honest, after giving birth, I wasn’t exactly rushing to be either. Something I now deeply regret, as my own insecurities stopped me from having beautiful family memories from those early days.
Something did shift in me as a new mum, including my priorities in how I spend my time and who I do things for. I realised that it was time to follow a dream that’s been quietly growing inside, so that I can be the parent and role model my daughter deserves.
I am a very down-to-earth, uncomplicated person who loves authenticity in a world that feels more and more of the opposite. Because of that, lifestyle photography felt like home from the moment I discovered it.
Why Lifestyle Photography Speaks To Me
Lifestyle photography is all about authenticity. It’s less about posing and stiff, “cheesy” smiles, and more about guiding people into comfortable interactions and moments of connection that feel like them. Some of my favourite things to capture are:
- A tiny hand gripping a parent’s finger
- The giggles during tickle fights
- A business owner showing off what their brand is all about.
These moments aren’t staged; they’re lived. And in my eyes, that’s what makes them beautiful.
During sessions, I am guided by the simple belief that real will always be more meaningful than perfect. I offer gentle direction rather than strict posing. I’ll encourage movement, play, and genuine connection. My goal is that you never feel stiff or awkward, but more like a cosy Sunday morning being present with your loved ones.
What I Love To Photograph Most
Newborn Photography
There is something so special about photographing fresh, squishy newborns. The sessions are slow, gentle, and deeply emotional. I’m always incredibly honoured when parents let me into their world during those early days, because I really understand that this is a time that feels both overwhelming and unbelievably precious.
Lifestyle newborn photography allows babies to be held, snuggled, fed, or rocked. No unnatural poses. No props that make your baby unrecognisable. Just love.
Family Photography
Family sessions are fun, joyful, unpredictable, and wonderfully real. I love capturing the dynamics that make your family yours. The laughter, the inside jokes, the wild ones running circles around everyone else. I embrace and welcome all of it.
My favourite photos often happen when families forget the camera is even there.
Personal Branding Photography
Working with small business owners is such a fun, creative process. These sessions help you show the world who you are, what you do, and the heart behind your work. I love planning branding shoots that feel aligned, intentional and true to your story. No stiff corporate headshots here!
What You Can Expect When You Work With Me
Every session with me is relaxed, connection‑led and supportive. My main priority is for you to feel at ease from the moment we meet.
For newborn and family sessions:
- I follow the lead of your little ones
- I focus on natural interactions and connection
- I don’t expect perfect behaviour; in fact, I expect a bit of cheekiness!
- Breaks, snacks and cuddles are always welcome
For personal branding sessions:
- We will plan your shoot together
- I help you choose outfits, locations, and props
- We create images that truly reflect your brand personality.
Above all, I will never judge or ask you to be perfect… just to be yourselves.
A Peek Behind The Scenes
People often tell me they’re surprised by how calm and fun sessions feel, that nothing felt awkward and how quickly they forget that a camera is even in the room. That’s completely intentional. Behind the scenes and quietly in my head, I:
- Scout out soft, flattering natural light
- Come up with gentle prompts that bring out genuine expressions
- Edit in a warm, true-to-life style
- Prioritise comfort, especially for newborns and parents running on little sleep
- Always look for those moments of you connecting naturally as a family.
My main driver is for you to feel that your photography session is an enjoyable experience from start to finish, one you look back on fondly.
What You'll Find On This Blog
This blog will become a mixture of:
- Tips for newborn, family and branding sessions
- What‑to‑wear guides
- Location inspiration around Wakefield & West Yorkshire
- Real client stories
- Behind-the-scenes photos
- Photography insights and reflections
- Practical advice to help you feel confident in front of the camera
If there’s something you’d love to see here, I’m all ears!
A Personal Closing Note
Thank you so much for reading my very first blog post. It means the world to have you here as I start this new chapter. My hope is that this space becomes a little corner of the internet that feels warm, helpful, and inspiring.
If you’d like to follow along, keep an eye on this page, as I’ll be setting up subscription mailers for future blog posts. And if you’re ready to create meaningful, heartfelt images together, I’d love to chat.
Here’s to capturing real moments, real stories, and real connection. 🤍
