What used to simply be a hobby has bloomed into a passion for showcasing life's moments. I love the challenge of capturing a moment in time that will never be repeated, and the joy of being able to look back on that moment and be overwhelmed by the vivid memories of the event. I want to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of the world around them and to never forget the remarkable moments that make life so special. I strive to create photographs that will be an eternal reminder of how spectacular life can be and ensuring that each photograph captures a unique and remarkable moment of history.

A few random tidbits about me...

  • I married my best friend at 19; we have 3 incredible children together & have been married for 28 years.
  • Our children are 28, 26, and 17 yrs old! It's hard to believe that 2 are "adults" now...life goes by way too fast!!
  • I have had my business “Melissa Dawn Photography” since 2009 and have loved every minute!
  • In addition to my own business, I shoot concerts for US106.1 Country Radio, BobFm, The Coast 96.5 and 96X as well as the online publication, On Tour Magazine.
  • I have my CDL and drive a school bus for the city of Chesapeake!
  • I was a still photographer for 2 movies, “Madhouse Mecca” and “Art Show Bingo” and I'm dying to do more!
  • I am utterly obsessed over my German Shepherd, Bella; she is my entire world - my very best friend!!
  • I am a CANON girl...tho recently I added the SONY mirrorless to my collection but quickly went back to CANON!
  • You will always see me in a black t-shirt, with a bottle of Propel, Bath & Body Works lip-gloss, and my cell phone.
  • Concert season makes my heart flutter...I adore LIVE music - ALL live music .... and Luke Bryan! ;)
  • I listen to every type of music...country, rock, pop, metal, rap, alternative, and of course the awesome rockin 80's!! ;)
  • Music & quotes usually explain what’s in my heart better than I can.
  • I LOVE close ups - I LOVE emotion - I LOVE captured unposed moments!!
  • I always cry during the father & daughter dance at weddings...ALWAYS!
  • I shoot real estate listings as well and absolutely LOVE it!

PHOTOGRAPHING ON BEHALF OF OUR LADY PEACE AT THE PORTSMOUTH PAVILION IN PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA. // PHOTO CREDIT: BRANDI HINKLEY