connection. emotion. heartfelt.
Family films & Photographs for the Mothers Who Never Want to Forget
For moms who want more than posed photos — I create relaxed, heartfelt images and cinematic family films that preserve your children’s voices, movement, and connection in Northern Michigan’s most meaningful seasons.
Photography + Video services in Traverse City, Leelanau, Glen Arbor, Lake Michigan & Northern Michigan beaches. Trusted by over 1200+ MOMS since 2011.
“I was so stressed about family photos with my kids, but you made it feel easy — and somehow captured exactly who we are without anything feeling forced.”
- inga, family beach photos on lake michigan
200+ five star reviews | 15+ years experience | 1,000+ families photographed
I create heartfelt family photography and films in Traverse City that preserve not just what this season looked like — but what it felt like to live it.
The quiet snuggles. Wind-blown beach walks. Belly laughs. Tiny voices. The way your child reaches for your hand without thinking. These are the little things that disappear quietly.
authentic, joyful, imperfectly perfect family photography
L
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- Relaxed, child-led sessions where kids can play, explore, laugh, and just be themselves — no pressure for perfect behavior or posing
- Full guidance from start to finish — outfits, locations, timing, and how to feel comfortable in front of the camera
- The only Traverse City family photographer + videographer offering both photography and cinematic family films together
- Preservation of your children’s voices, movement, personalities, and real connection — not just how it looked, but how it felt
- Stress-free planning so you can simply be present with your family
- Calm, patient approach with toddlers, shy kids, and big emotions
- Documentary storytelling focused on connection, motherhood, warmth, and real emotion
- Luxury, personal experience rooted in emotion and storytelling over perfection
- Nostalgic imagery from day one — made to become lifelong family memories
i handle all of the details, so you don't have to
about your experience
“This was the first photo session my husband actually enjoyed.”
— jessica, traverse city family client
...because your memories matter
One day you’ll miss the way they reached for your hand without thinking
Because motherhood moves fast in ways no one prepares you for.
You’re always the one taking the photos
Your kids don’t sit still
You want photos that feel natural instead of posed
You want heirlooms printed instead of forgotten on your phone
You want video clips of your children exactly as they are right now
this experience is for you if...
One day you’re rocking a sleepy newborn at 2am, and somehow the next they’re running barefoot along the shoreline beside you. These moments deserve more than stiff poses and forced smiles. They deserve to be remembered honestly.
Through a relaxed, storytelling approach, I document your family exactly as you are — connected, playful, emotional, imperfect, and deeply loved — so you can hold onto this season long after it’s gone.
A Session Moms Actually Enjoy
No Forced Smiles. No Pressure.
Just Real Moments.
Your kids never have to sit still or smile at the camera
I follow your children’s energy instead of forcing stiff poses
Breaks, snacks, cuddles, exploring, and running around are always welcome
I create space for your family to genuinely connect instead of constantly “performing” for photos
I bring treats, games, and toys to encourage play
I’m not afraid to be silly, goofy, or make a little chaos feel magical
Because even the smallest moments between you and your children are memories worth holding forever
My sessions are intentionally relaxed and child-led, so your family can simply slow down, be together, and actually enjoy the experience while I document it all naturally.
WHAT MOMS LOVE MOST:
✓ Your kids don’t need to sit still
✓ Tantrums are okay.
✓ I expect chaos
✓ Real moments matter more than perfection
You Don’t Need Perfectly Behaved Kids for Beautiful Photos
Mothers Deserve to Exist in the Memories Too
So often, moms are the ones taking the photos — capturing everyone else while quietly disappearing from the story themselves.
But your children deserve photographs of you with them.
Not just perfectly posed portraits, but the real moments:
holding their hand,
fixing their hair,
laughing together,
holding them close while they’re still small enough to fit in your arms.
One day, these images and films will become proof of how deeply they were loved.
From outfits and locations to helping little ones feel comfortable, I'll guide every step
- location selection (beaches, dunes, lakeside spots)
- sunset timing
- outfit guidance
- natural posing and interaction
- helping kids feel comfortable without pressure
You don’t need to prepare your family perfectly.
Just show up as you are.
I’ll guide the rest.
what moms
love most
A calm, guided, stress-free experience (for moms who carry enough already)
every detail taken care of for you
inquiry & booking your session
01
- Custom Style Guide with shoppable outfit links for the whole family
- Access to my Client Wardrobe with flattering dresses for moms
- Simple guidance on timeless hair and makeup
- Full styling support so everything feels easy, cohesive, and stress-free
PREPPING FOR YOUR SESSION
02
This is where the magic happens. The only thing you have to think about is loving your family. I will take care of every detail, every moment that naturally unfolds. You can expect gentle guidance for genuine, authentic moments captured on camera that feel like your family and the emotional bond you share.
Session Time
03
- Your images deserve more than living on a screen.
- Schedule a Zoom Ordering Appointment for personalized guidance.
- Get help choosing the best images for your home.
- Complimentary album, print box, and gallery wall design services.
- Beautiful heirloom artwork, thoughtfully curated for your family.
ORDERING ARTWORK FOR YOUR HOME
04
“I don’t love being in photos, but for the first time I actually feel beautiful and natural in pictures with my kids.”
- lauren, family beach photos on lake michigan
200+ five star reviews | 15+ years experience | 1,000+ families photographed
Someday, these won’t just be photos or films to your children — they’ll be proof of how deeply they were loved.
As a mother, I know how quickly the little things change.
Most photographers freeze a moment.
I preserve the full story.
Through both photography and cinematic family films, you’ll be able to:
- hear your children again
- see their movement and personality unfold
- relive the connection between you
- return to this exact season of life
Someday, These Will Be the videos Your Children Treasure Most
why family films matter
sound on
Photos preserve how this season looked. Films preserve how it felt.
Because someday, still images won’t feel like enough — but motion will bring it all back.
The Only Traverse City Photographer Who Preserves Your Family in Both Photos & Film
my services
videograpghy
wall art & heirloom albums
- The way your daughter twirls in her dress.
- The sound of your son’s laughter.
- The way your baby curls into your chest.
- Your children’s tiny voices saying “mom.”
- Not hidden away on a phone.
- Tiny fingers flipping through pages.
- Your children seeing themselves wrapped in your love.
- Rainy afternoons spent retelling stories.
- The feeling of being remembered.
photography
- Emotional
- Storytelling
- Connection
- Turns chaos to beauty
- The way they look at you when they feel safest.
- The beautiful, ordinary moments you never realize are disappearing until they already have.
01
02
03
This is why I offer both photography and family films together — because motherhood deserves to be remembered in motion, too.
Years from now, these won’t just be images on a screen.
They’ll become part of your family’s legacy.
"I didn’t realize how much I needed these photos until I saw them."
glass boxes
Beautifully handcrafted glass print boxes turn your favorite photographs into a tangible keepsake that can be held, shared, and treasured for generations.
albums
Heirloom albums beautifully preserve your family's story in a timeless keepsake, allowing your children to revisit these memories for generations to come.
wall gallery
I'll custom design your gallery wall from start to finish—carefully selecting the perfect images, frame styles, and sizing for your space so all you have to do is enjoy seeing your family's memories beautifully displayed every day.
Fine art prints bring your favorite moments off the screen and into your everyday life, where they can be enjoyed, remembered, and loved for years to come.
prints
Your photographs deserve more than living on a hard drive.
I help families turn their memories into heirloom albums, framed artwork, and print collections that become part of their home and family story.
your photos in 20 years?
how do you want to enjoy
200+ five star reviews
“For the first time, family photos didn’t feel stressful — it just felt like time together.”
- stephanie
“You made me feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful in our family photos.”
- beth
“I worried my kids wouldn’t cooperate, but the session felt completely effortless.”
- amy jo
so you remember how small they once were
Let’s Preserve This Season Before It Slips Away
our collections
wardrobe & styling
hand-painted editing
online gallery
ordering appointment
all packages include
photo + video
- 1-2 minute highlight film
- UNLIMITED session length
- 80 image gallery
- vertical "shorts" video for social media films
- Candid, gentle posing and time for play
- Creative and Artistic Time Editing
- Home Artwork and Album Add-Ons Available
- Viewing and Ordering Appt. After Session
$950
*Most Popular*
extended family
$750
Most Flexible
single family
$550
Best Value
- Families 1-5 people
- 45-60 minutes
- 50 image gallery
- Candid, gentle posing and time for play
- Creative and Artistic Time Editing
- Home Artwork and Album Add-Ons Available
- Viewing and Ordering Appt. After Session
**Payment plans available. 50% deposit upon booking**
payments can be split between extended families
- Designed for families with more that 6+ people
- 60-90 minutes
- 60 image gallery
- Unlimited group combinations, individual families, candids, etc
- Creative and Artistic Time Editing
- Home Artwork and Album Add-Ons Available
- Viewing and Ordering Appt. After Session
$100
fast turn-around
Get your edited photos 3 days after your shoot (best for the Instagram girlie!)
add-ons to elevate your experience
valued at
$250
extensive face editing
Soften skin, smooth frizzy hair, heighten natural beauty, and accentuate YOU
valued at
$350
** most popular** video add-on
Purchase a complimentary video during your photo session
valued at
$150
video short films
Vertical video "shorts" formatted for tiktok and instagram
valued at
$699
heirloom albums
our most popular add-on. Luxury albums for the sentimental mother
valued at
$350
print box
Museum-etched quality prints, held in a soft fabric box for a beautiful preservation of memory
valued at
that's why i give tons of free bonuses to hold your hand, step-by-step, through the entire process
One Day, These Photos Will Mean Everything
All-you’ll-ever-need Outfit Guide and Posing Guide (+ a secret Pinterest Board for your dream outfit inspo)
Outfit & Posing Guide
BONUS 3
An Exclusive Family Photoshoot Magazine that will walk you through all your session planning needs so you don’t have to spend hours scouring the internet for answers - it’s all put together in a beautiful digital magazine exclusively for our Lux Light Mommas
Exclusive Photoshoot Magazine
BONUS 2
A personalized Photoshoot Timeline that is tailored to a successful outcome for all your personal details, favorite locations, pose inspiration, and more (written exclusively by me, for you!)
Day-Of Timeline
BONUS 1
A Family Shot List for the day-of, so you don’t have to fear leaving anyone out and feel guilty later on
Family Shot List
BONUS 6
All booking is completed online for your convenience, so you can save your session details on your own time (I know how busy you are!)
Online Booking for Convenience
BONUS 5
Coordination for the best lighting and location inspiration for all your family photos, ensuring you get those dream images you've always longed for (beach, dunes, you name it!)
Location + Lighting Suggestions
BONUS 4
Unlimited monthly communication with me so you can rest assured someone always has your back and knows exactly what you want executed, down to the smallest detail
Unlimited Communication
BONUS 9
Hand-edited images all fine-tuned personally by me (no computer-generated, lack-luster filters used here!)
Hand-edited Images
BONUS 8
Fast turnaround time to receive your edited images after the photoshoot (don’t be one of those horror stories that has to hound their photographer for a glimpse at their pics even months after the day!)
Receive Your Images Quickly
BONUS 7
bonus 10
The best heart-led family photos + videos of your life. Period.
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“I was worried my kids wouldn’t cooperate, but she somehow captured their real personalities without ever making it feel stressful.”
What our moms are saying
01/04
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may + peter swift
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WHAT OUR MOMS ARE SAYING
02/04
“I don’t love being in photos, but for the first time I actually feel beautiful and natural in pictures with my kids.”
View next
simon + liz smith
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“I thought video would feel awkward, but it ended up being the most emotional part — it feels like reliving that day all over again.”
WHAT OUR MOMS ARE SAYING
03/04
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amiee danson
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WHAT OUR MOMS ARE SAYING
04/04
“I was nervous it would feel rushed or posed, but it honestly felt like just a peaceful evening with my family while she quietly documented everything.”
Vacation Family Photos in Northern Michigan
There’s a reason families return to Northern Michigan summer after summer.
The same lake house.
The same beach.
Slow mornings on the porch while the kids run barefoot outside.
Sunset walks. Boat days. Sandy little feet.
These trips become part of your family’s story.
And the best part?
For a little while, everyone is together again.
The grandparents.
The cousins.
The babies who somehow look bigger than last summer.
The people you love most, all in one place at the same time.
That’s what makes vacation family photography in Traverse City and Northern Michigan so meaningful.
You already have the memories happening around you — my job is simply to preserve them in a natural, heartfelt way so you can hold onto not just what this season looked like, but what it felt like to be together here.
These sessions are relaxed, playful, and connection-focused. No pressure for perfect poses or perfectly behaved kids. Just space for your family to laugh, cuddle, explore, and enjoy a beautiful summer evening together while I document it all honestly and beautifully.
“We may not all be together like this next year.”
These are the kinds of photos that will always bring you back to these precious moments, to remind you why motherhood has been the greatest purpose of your life.
Because all of those little not-so-perfect things you love about your children - the way your daughter demands butterfly kisses when really she squishes your nose; the way your son is stubborn and difficult yet the most lovable (and secret softie when it comes to dogs); the way they both give each other big Bear hugs because they secretly love each other - those are the things that make beautiful, meaningful relationships (and therefore deserve to be showcased as the REAL you, even on a hectic days!)
With this one click, you’ve procured a best-friend and photographer all-in-one. I’ll be in touch monthly to help you create your perfect timeline, shot list and more. Expect me to be your voice and backbone from today until even after your portrait date
Pop the Champaigne (or double-shot espresso)
Once you choose your Family Package, you’ll receive a digital invoice to pay your deposit (50% down) and sign your contract. This will officially save your date for your Northern Michigan photoshoot!
Select Your Custom Family Package
Fill out an inquiry form with your estimated photoshoot date and the vision you have for your day. I will then be able to send you our Pricing Guide with any custom packaging needs to help you achieve your dream family pictures.
Contact Us
IS EASY:
BOOKING
frequently asked questions
how exactly does this all work?
After you inquire, I’ll personally reach out within 24–48 hours to learn more about your family and the kind of session you’re dreaming of. From there, I’ll help guide you through choosing the perfect location, timing, and session experience so everything feels simple and stress-free. Once your date is officially booked, I’ll send over all the details you need to feel fully prepared — from outfit shoppable links for the whole family, styling guidance, prop choices, and what to expect during your session.
Once you’re ready to move forward, I’ll send over your booking proposal with everything you need in one place — your contract, invoice, and session details. A signed contract and retainer officially reserve your date on my calendar. After that, I’ll guide you through the rest of the process so you can simply look forward to a relaxed, meaningful experience with your family.
Adding a family film to your session is simple and seamless. Video can be added to any photography session, allowing me to preserve not just how this season looked, but how it felt — the movement, laughter, cuddles, and tiny voices you never want to forget. During your session, I naturally capture both photo and video moments together, so the experience stays relaxed and connected for your family.
All you really need to do is show up and love on your people.
I’ll guide you through everything else — from location and timing, to gentle direction during your session so nothing ever feels awkward or forced. There’s no need for perfect outfits, perfect behavior, or a “picture-perfect” day. Just come as you are, be together, and I’ll take care of preserving the rest.
I recommend locations that feel natural, relaxed, and meaningful for your family — places where your kids can be themselves and you can simply enjoy time together.
In and around Traverse City, some of my favorite spots include quiet Lake Michigan beaches at sunset, sandy dunes, open fields with soft golden light, and cozy family cottages or lake homes if you’re vacationing here. The best location is always the one that fits your family’s story, and I’ll help guide you toward a spot that feels beautiful, comfortable, and true to this season of your life.
Don't worry - as a fellow mom, we've alllll been there on the days where there are meltdowns, more tears than smiles, and just an "off" day! Or maybe the kiddos are wound up and seem to have drank at least 10 cans of Coke. It's all going to be OK, I promise!
This is where working WITH the kids is so important. We've got lots of tricks up our sleeves - from bribes, fun games, engaging and competitive prompts....we will work with the kids to help them (and you) feel relaxed and comfortable.
Your full gallery is typically delivered within 3–4 weeks after your session. I carefully go through each image and film moment to ensure everything feels warm, cohesive, and true to your family’s story. Once it’s ready, you’ll receive a private online gallery where you can view, download, and share your images and films with ease.
love notes from past clients
“I was worried my kids wouldn’t cooperate, but she somehow captured their real personalities without ever making it feel stressful.”
- sarah & warren
- A calm, supportive experience for moms
- Guidance every step of the way
- You’ll never feel alone in the planning process
PROMISE
my
I know how deeply photographs matter, because I’ve seen it in my own family.
My brother is in heaven, and I’ve watched my mom hold onto the photos of him over the years — the way they bring her back to his smile, his presence, and the love that never leaves. It’s made me incredibly dedicated to preserving that same kind of love for other families.
I don’t take this work lightly — I create with the intention that these images and films will one day become the most meaningful thing you have.
Hi, I'm Melissa!
"We couldn’t be happier with our experience working with Melissa"
- CAROLYN, TRAVERSE CITY MI MOM
a photographer who truly understands motherhood
“I thought video would feel awkward, but it ended up being the most emotional part — it feels like reliving that day all over again.”
- betsy, family beach photos on lake michigan
200+ five star reviews | 15+ years experience | 1,000+ families photographed
over 165+
5-star reviews
we love our moms + families
inquire to get started
You don’t need perfectly behaved kids or a perfectly planned session — you just need to show up exactly as you are. I’ll guide you through the rest and create a relaxed, meaningful experience your family will actually enjoy.
**If you do not hear from me within 24 hours, check your SPAM**
melissa@luxlightphotography.net
231-883-9500
Traverse City, MI
Thank you!
Thank you for your message! I look forward to being in touch in 1-2 business days.