{about me}

Photo courtesy of Bryan Reibe, aka 'the hubs'

Hey there!  I’m Melissa, and I am a natural light, on location child and family photographer for the Central Arkansas area.  Natural light means that I, 98% of the time, never use a flash, and use the sun instead for a more natural look. 

I have always loved taking pictures ever since I took a photography class in high school.  After graduating high school, I put that hobby on the back burner for about 10 years.  A short while after my wedding in 2008, I  decided to pick my photography hobby back up.  I went out and bought a DSLR with the help of my best friend who is a great photographer, and from that day on…I DOVE into the hobby and haven't looked back.  I decided after a while (aka endless amount of hours spent on photography), that I wanted to do this on the side since I have such a huge passion for it.  I love the rewarding feeling I get from taking pictures.  I literally am so giddy after every session, and if I can, I drive straight home and start uploading and editing – photography truly excites me!

I really enjoy meeting new people and trying to capture everyone’s beauty.  I like pictures that show who a person really is, whether that means a huge cheesy smile or a serious side.  I’m not afraid to get up in your face, hang upside down, act a fool to make the kiddos laugh, or crawl around on the ground to get the perfect shot.  I like a little posed, but also love me some lifestyle (candid)!

A little more about me:

I am a wife to a wonderful husband, Bryan.  We have been married since 2008, and I really couldn’t ask for a more supportive and awesome hubby!  We welcomed a precious joy to our lives, baby boy Cooper, at the end of December of 2011.  It's safe to say we are definitely smitten <3

I have a ton of hobbies – I love to run (well, I tell myself  I do anyways), play volleyball, sew, waterski, do crafty stuff, and …take pictures! I love going on vacations with my husband (hello beach!), going on walks with Cooper in the stroller, spending time with all of my best girlfriends and family, and also just snuggling up on the couch to read a good book.  Turkey sandwiches, Mexican food, Starbucks, and sour brite crawlers are some of my favorite things.  And I love sleep!  Oh how I love to sleep! 

I look forward to getting the chance to know a little more about you!  If you have any questions, do not hesitate to email me (melissa@melissareibephotography.com).