Creative Engagement Portraits at First Landing, Virginia Beach

Creative Engagement Portraits at First Landing, Virginia Beach

This crazy busy season keeps chugging along full steam ahead, and once again I am behind on blogging. I swear I blinked and July disappeared! I have had so many fun-filled sessions with fabulous people, it will likely take me until December to catch up! But, I am thrilled to be shooting so much, and to have the honor to connect with so many beautiful souls.

This week's share is Terrin and Melissa's gorgeous sunset engagement session at First Landing State Park. These two lovelies hail from the West Coast. They actually met as young kids when their older siblings were dating. Their families have been close for many years, and as they grew up, Melissa and Terrin grew closer and closer. Finally, they decided it was time to tie the knot. 

Terrin is currently stationed in Norfolk, while Melissa works back home in Washington State. She contacted me months ago to plan an engagement session for early summer, to coincide with her vacation plans in Virginia. 

Since she and Terrin weren't all that familiar with the area, I shared lots of examples of session locations with them to show them the variety of back drops available in Hampton Roads. They fell in love with First Landing's woodsy charm and laid back tidal atmosphere. (It's one of my fave's too!)

We spent the lovely summer evening wandering through the woods and along the shoreline as the sun began to set.

Melissa and Terrin were so much fun to shoot. They are so deeply connected and at ease with one another, my job became simply guiding them from scene to scene through moments of silly banter and sweet intimate embraces. They rest is all them. 

Life is infinitely more enjoyable, when you don't take it, or yourself, too seriously. 

And the scenery at First Landing never disappoints! 

Thank you, Terrin and Melissa, for trusting my vision for your engagement photos!  I am thrilled that you love them, and I hope they bring you much joy in the years to come. All my happiest wishes to you both as you enter this new chapter together! - XOXO, Melissa 

If you would like to find out more about our wedding photography services, contact us today!  Serving VA & NC. Available for travel destinations worldwide.

Contact Melissa Bliss Photography to schedule your lifestyle photo session today!

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Surprise Proposal on the Beach, Virginia Beach Engagement Pictures

Surprise Proposal on the Beach, Virginia Beach Engagement Pictures

So this was pretty darn exciting! It has been a little while since I have shot a surprise proposal.  Sean contacted me a few weeks ago while he was planning a way to surprise his girlfriend and pop the question. We chatted on the phone a couple of times, and I could tell by his thoughtfulness, warmth, and enthusiasm that this was going to be a very emotional event. 

I was thrilled to be able to help him select a location, and iron out the details of how to capture this moment without blowing the surprise. He made dinner reservations at Rockafellers, and planned a sunset walk on the beach after dinner. He left no detail undone, and made a beautiful keepsake box as a gift for Julie. He told me that he gave her small gifts often, and planned to have her open the gift on the beach as he got down on one knee. 

It all went off perfectly. I was SO excited to be there to capture this moment for them! It was absolutely beautiful!

Virginia Beach Oceanfront Surprise Proposal

Thank you Sean and Julie, for inviting me to be part of this special moment in your lives. It was an honor! I am so happy for you both.  Congrats you guys! - XOXO Melissa 

Creative  Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer, Virginia & Destinations World Wide

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Engagement Photos at Pleasure House Point, Virginia Beach

Engagement Photos at Pleasure House Point,

Virginia Beach Photographer

Today I'm sharing some sweet sneak peeks from Tina & Chris's sunset engagement session at Pleasure House Point Natural Area in Virginia Beach. 

I met Tina & Chris recently when they contacted me about photographing their fall wedding in Virginia Beach. They are best friends, talented professionals, and kind-hearted souls. I enjoyed getting to know them as we chatted about their wedding plans at a local coffee shop last month. Warm and welcoming from hello, they seemed to share an easy going manner and a quiet confidence. 

We planned their engagement session for early spring, and I was thrilled when they selected Pleasure House Point as the location. It's such a unique area. The tall grasses, which are golden and wheat-like in fall and winter, really provide a soft, romantic backdrop. 

The day of their session was rather gray and cool, with a few sprinkles, but they chose to go ahead with the shoot despite the weather. Tina was a brave soul ditching her coat for most of their session. The wind and damp air gave quite a chill!

Even though they were half frozen they looked absolutely gorgeous! I adore the classic elegance of these black and white shots of them. 

And those green shoes she was rockin' - love!!

After a quick wardrobe change, we headed away from the environmental center and out into the trails to explore. Even though we didn't get a warm golden sunset, there were many lovely reflections on the water. 

We wandered and shot until just past dusk. It turned out to be quite a lovely evening. Even better, I think, because of the solitude the cold weather afforded us.

I had a great time shooting with Tina and Chris and I am SO excited for their September wedding!

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Congrats you guys! - XOXO Melissa 

Creative  Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer

Melissa Bliss Photography – Authentic Moments in Beautiful Timeless Photographs

To find our more about planning a lifestyle photo session, get in touch today!

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Lifestyle Photo Sessions, Hampton Roads Photographer

Lifestyle Photo Sessions, Hampton Roads Photographer

Spring is here!  Believe it or not, spring has officially graced the calendar and it won't be long before Mother Nature wakes up too.  I know it feels like we are stuck in a perpetual limbo between the cold, gray winter and the soggy chill of early spring. But, without a doubt, the weather will soon be warming and the blossoms will soon unfold in the glorious golden sun. Now is the time to reserve an appointment for a lifestyle photo session at your favorite Hampton Roads location!

Get in touch and I'll help you plan the perfect session to suit your personality and lifestyle. Whether that's enjoying a sunset on the beach, wandering through the woods, sipping java at your favorite urban cafe, or even whipping up a batch of delicious chocolate chip cookies at home with the kids - your session should reflect who YOU are and how you best relate to those you love.

If you have a special milestone to celebrate, or if you just want to collect those sweet, everyday memories, I'd love to show you how we can create something unique and meaningful just for you.  

Let's make a date to document those little moments with big heart! 

If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area, or plan to be, contact me to schedule your spring/summer lifestyle photo session!

 Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer, Virginia & Travel

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Romantic Engagement Session, Virginia Beach Photographer

Romantic Engagement Session, Virginia Beach Photographer

I am sharing some beautiful sneak peeks from this recent Virginia Beach engagement session today! Bailey and Ethan were engaged last Friday, and we shot their engagement portraits on Saturday at First Landing State Park. 

They are both from Texas and grew up together, so the connection with these two is deep. Ethan is currently stationed in Norfolk, and Bailey flew up to spend the week with him. He took her to the Norfolk Botanical Garden on Friday and popped the question among the flowering pink magnolia trees - romantic right? 

We didn't find any magnolias in bloom at First Landing, but we did make good use of the one Bradford Pear tree we found. I just love how comfortably these two settle into each other - a perfect fit!

"You are my best friend, my human diary, my other half - you mean the world to me."

The more time we spent talking and shooting, the more evident it became that Bailey and Ethan have the kind of enduring bond that can weather any storm. The respect and love they share not only brings them happiness and comfort, but also sustains them and allows them the freedom to grow. I have no doubt that they will continue to grow together, and to lift each other up as they navigate life's trials and triumphs. 

Bailey and Ethan, it was truly a pleasure to spend some time getting to know you! I am grateful that we were able to create some beautiful engagement photographs to celebrate your love story. I wish you much love and joy as you continue your journey together.  XOXO - Melissa  

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Here's what Bailey had to say about her MBP experience:

 "Melissa was absolutely fantastic! She was kind and professional and funny. Working with her was easy and relaxing. I wasn’t stressed about looking perfect and she made us feel at ease."

If you would like to find out more about our wedding photography services, contact us today!  Serving VA & NC. Available for travel destinations worldwide.

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Norfolk Photographer - Freemason District Maternity Session

Norfolk Photographer - Freemason District Maternity Session

How great is it that we live in an area where mild, sunny day winter sessions are possible?  It was just one such gorgeous day when I photographed Stephanie & Koen's maternity session in Norfolk's lovely Freemason District. 

Stephanie and Koen met in Montreal while in college. Koen is from Belgium and she is Canadian. They dated for about 6 years before marrying. During that time, they lived in Montreal and Antwerp before moving to Norfolk. 

They are both lovers of the great outdoors and also great coffee! They enjoy spending time running, skiing, cycling, ice skating and exploring Norfolk with their first baby, Hunter, a very well behaved Brittany Spaniel. (Isn't he handsome?)

Stephanie and Koen are looking forward to welcoming their first child early this spring and wanted to some maternity photos to share with family and friends back home. We spent an afternoon making photos along the downtown waterside area, to incorporate some of their favorite Norfolk scenes. 

I lived in Norfolk for many years, and there are so many great spots to explore. I really love shooting in the urban downtown area and in the arts district for a fun change of pace. 

Stephanie, Koen and Hunter, it was a pleasure getting to know you all! Thank you for spending the afternoon with me. I look forward to meeting your newest family member. Best wishes! XOXO -Melissa 

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Lifestyle Maternity Portrait and Wedding Photographer

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If you are in the Hampton Roads, VA area and would like to schedule your creative photography experience, contact me today!

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Intimate Norfolk Military Elopement - Virginia Wedding Photographer

Intimate Norfolk Military Elopement - Virginia Wedding Photographer

These two beautiful souls were married during a small private ceremony at the chapel on Norfolk Naval Base. While their elopement was to be a private affair, they did want some creative photos to celebrate their union. Devon and Andrew were high school sweethearts, and have been close for years. Andrew will soon be heading to Chicago, so they decided to tie the knot before the move. They will begin a new adventure as Mr. & Mrs. 

When we chatted about their session, they told me they wanted something outdoors and romantic, possibly at the beach. Not familiar with the area (they are both from Texas), they left the location up to me.

We did luck out with an unseasonably warm winter day for our session, but it was windy and I knew the beach would be unbearable. First Landing State Park was the perfect spot for some pretty water views, but also some trees and grasses to break the wind a bit. 

 The sun was out when we began our session, but the skies quickly turned overcast and the wind picked up. These two didn't mind though. As the chill came on, they snuggled into a familiar embrace to keep each other warm. I love how sweet and light-hearted they are together!

I must say, windy days are my favorite for shooting. I love how the wind dances with hair and fabric, adding movement and atmosphere to images. 

And this couple....so gorgeous!! I had a seriously difficult time culling down images for this blog post. The one below is definitely a fave from this session.

What a beautiful reminder of an important chapter in their love story. I hope they hang it big where they can see it often.

After getting some waterside shots, we headed to the woods to change things up a bit. I love the variety of natural beauty that abounds at First Landing. The Spanish Moss is magical and those earthy tones make my soul happy. 

We finished up back by the water for sunset. Even though it was cloudy and overcast, there was a warm golden glow that was lovely. 

I am so grateful that I got to meet and work with this charming couple to create some meaningful photographs for them. 

Congratulations Devon & Andrew! Sending all my best wishes to you for good fortune and many happy days together. - XO Melissa

VA Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer - Destination Wedding Photographer

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