Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Amorelli.
Hi Melissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey as a photographer started back in high school! I loved taking photos of everything. A popular platform at that time was Tumblr, where I posted photos and got such great feedback! I decided to go to college for photography, and when I graduated I started my own photography business. As I build up my business (which can be very challenging!) I worked for many photography companies, worked for other photographers, all while I freelanced for myself. Now 9 years later, I have hundreds of clients, I have met the best families that use me for milestone photos each year, and I continue to grow my business in NJ. It’s safe to say I truly love what I do!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is hard!! The early days definitely come with a massive learning curve. When I first started out, I did a lot of free and heavily discounted sessions just to build up a portfolio, and to get photos for my website and social media. Beyond just taking photos, there is so much trial and error involved in the business side. You have to figure out your personal shooting style, establish the look and feel of your brand, learn how to market yourself, and navigate the logistics like curating a contract that works for you and your business. Every struggle along the way helped shape my business into what it is today!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a portrait photographer based out of Monmouth County, NJ. I love creating bright, vibrant, clean, true to color photos for my clients. I specialize in portraits- families, babies, kids, couples, headshots. If it involves people- I do it! What sets me apart from others is how I run my sessions. I love making people laugh, so I focus on keeping everyone comfortable, getting a little silly, and guiding them through poses so they never feel awkward. Working with kids is definitely one of my specialties. Even when little ones get a bit fussy, bringing out their smiles and magically capturing that perfect shot is kind of my thing. When parents get the proofs to choose their final photo gallery I always get the text: “Wow, how did you get that?!”
And recently, I went viral on Instagram doing a photography trend called ‘Stranger Sessions’ Basically, a blind date photoshoot! I match up two strangers based on compatibility and shared interests, photograph their very first meeting in real time, and then guide them through a full couples session. I’ve done a few so far and they are so much fun! I love the idea of bringing people together and capturing the moment they meet. It’s a blend of nervous, exciting, and genuine energy that results in the absolute cutest photos- all in hopes that they actually end up going on a real date!
What makes you happy?
In my personal life happiness is easily spending time with my family and friends, going to church, being outside- especially at the beach, and coffee is my favorite thing! Professionally, I absolutely love capturing the joy of others. When clients respond to their galleries saying, “Omg we love them” or “I’m crying, these are so amazing” it is the best feeling to know I captured a core memory for someone that they will have forever!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.melissaamorelliphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amorelliphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amorelliphotography
