Wisconsin Senior and Lifestyle Photographer
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did. But they will never forget how they made you feel.”
Senior Photography
Senior year. How did we get here?
You’re still someone’s kid, but you’re also becoming your own person. You still live in your childhood home, sleep in your childhood bed—but you’re not a child anymore. Your style, your voice, your plans, your attitude toward the world—it’s all starting to take shape.
For seniors, it’s the edge of what’s next.
For parents, it’s the beginning of letting go.
Senior photos are a way of honoring what was and what’s still to come.
There are a lot of firsts on the horizon… but there are also a lot of quiet lasts happening right now.
Senior photos aren’t just for the yearbook. They’re about capturing who you are in this moment—your personality, your confidence, the things that make you you.
Because before life pulls you in a hundred different directions, this version of you only exists right now.
Lifestyle Photography
Lifestyle photography isn’t about perfect outfits or stiff poses. It’s about documenting life as it actually feels.
Maybe that’s getting ice cream on a summer night. Maybe it’s running barefoot through your family’s farm field. Maybe it’s kids climbing all over you while everyone laughs and no one is standing still. Maybe it’s the way your teenager rolls their eyes—with a smirk on their face—at your bad jokes or awkward attempts at affection.
That’s the good stuff.
My goal isn’t to create some polished version of your family. It’s to capture you exactly as you are—the connection, the personality, the chaos, and the little details you’ll miss someday.
Real life. Real memories. Photographs that feel like you.
Because one day these moments will be memories.
And the photographs you keep should remind you that you lived a good life.
Hey, I am Melissa!
Yeah, I’m a photographer—but you probably figured that out already.
I’m also a wife and mom (my favorite title), and someone who prefers real conversations over small talk. I’m the kind of person who would rather sit around a firepit talking about life for hours than make awkward chit chat about the weather.
I thrive in chaos and love all the messy, deep feeling parts of being human. I love to laugh more than anything. The kind of laughter that leaves your cheeks sore. But I also love a good cry. I really love rare moments of relaization when I look around and think, damn… life is something else.
That’s the kind of feeling I want your photos to hold onto.
When we shoot together, it’s not about stiff poses or trying to turn you into something you’re not. Great photos happen when people feel comfortable enough to just be themselves.
As for where I’m located—mild mystery is always fun, but I suppose I should tell you. I grew up in Wisconsin, spent 15 years in Phoenix, Arizona, and now I’m back in Wisconsin splitting my time between the two places that feel like home. I photograph families and seniors in both states, and I honestly love the mix.
So if you’re looking for a photographer who will make things feel relaxed, easy, and actually fun… we’ll get along just fine.
LIFESTYLE
Your life isn’t staged. Your photos shouldn’t be either.
Testimonials
“Melissa was able to freeze a very special moment in time for my family and the images that she captured are priceless. We didn’t need to sit perfectly posed in front of her camera, we didn’t need to worry about where our hands were or how we should smile... instead we simply loved and laughed together in a beautiful setting and did what we do best as a family - just be “us” The emotions that I felt while viewing our gallery were raw, real and so deeply needed... I went back and forth whether to invest in a pregnancy session and I am so very grateful that I did! Thank you Melissa for capturing what my heart feels every day, you truly have a special gift!!!” –– Tiffany Qualizza
“My experience with Melissa from the beginning was amazing. I had an instant connection with her and knew that she would take, not only the pictures I was wanting, but also incorporate her incredible style and creativity as an artist. I had complete trust in her and she allowed me to be myself and really capture the moments that reflected the the joy I felt being with my first child, bringing her into the world and those precious first meetings with our family. She is truly a beautiful person and its reflected in her work and dedication to her clients. I am forever grateful to her for making our experience so special and unforgettable. Thank you Melissa again for every moment you captured and truly going above and beyond.” –– Jill Pedley
“WE WERE TOGETHER, I FORGET THE REST.”
Wisconsin senior and lifestyle photographer.
You Bring the People, I’ll Bring the Camera
Hit me up if you think we will vibe.
Hang with me on Instagram @melissalanephoto
