Smiling woman in black dress holding a camera, sitting on a wooden stool next to a potted plant in a minimalist room.

hey! I’m so glad you found me!

I’m Melanie, an Army wife of 10 years and a mother to four wonderful children. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been the one documenting life’s moments—the friend taking more photos than necessary and the mom capturing every little detail of my children’s lives. Photography has always been my way of storytelling, and I feel incredibly blessed to share that gift with others.

When I’m not behind the camera, I’m busy keeping up with my energetic 8-year-old son, playing with my sweet and lively 6-year-old daughter, reading to my cuddly 3-year-old, or chasing my adventurous 1-year-old little boy around.

In my free time, you’ll find me reading the Bible, sipping on cold coffee (because, let’s be honest, it’s never hot for long), or keeping up with my children's homeschool work. With my background as a former NICU nurse, I've traded hospital shifts for tending to scraped knees, comforting tired little ones, and being there for every bump and bruise as a stay-at-home mom in Ashburn Virginia.

ABOUT ME

The Process

Consultation

It all begins once you submit your request on this page. I'll reach out within 24 hours to discuss the session you'd like to book and go over all the details. From there, I'll send over a contract and invoice. The retainer is required to secure your booking and will be applied toward the final cost.

Three people, including a man and two children, walking hand in hand between large stone columns in an architectural setting.

Photoshoot

Next, we’ll schedule your photoshoot at a time that works best for you. For outdoor sessions, we’ll also consider the best hours for natural sunlight. I’ll also assist with outfit planning and send over a client guide to help you prepare for the session.

Family sitting on steps, consisting of a man in a military uniform, three children, and a woman. The setting is outdoors with a building backdrop.

Editing

I will deliver family sessions, maternity sessions, and newborn sessions within take 3-5 weeks. You can expect your birth gallery or military event to arrive in your email within 4-6 weeks.

A couple lovingly embracing their newborn baby on a couch.

Receiving Your Photos

I will notify you when your gallery is ready. You’ll be able to view all of your images on a password-protected website, conveniently accessible from your own device. You will have full rights to all the images included in your package, allowing you to download, save, and print them.

Young child holding a baby with a bow on the head, both lying on a striped blanket.

kind words

“100% recommend Melanie Lopez!!! She captured all the amazing moments of my promotion and even ones that I didn’t know I needed. She caught so many different angles too - I love her work!