creating slow-form, intimate portraits that celebrate the poetry of being human

Southern Maryland Photographer

Intimate 35mm Film Portraits & Motherhood Photography

Solomons, La Plata, & Leonardtown + travel

I’m a Southern Maryland photographer specializing in intimate, film-based portraits. Whether you’re celebrating motherhood, stepping into a boudoir session, or simply wanting portraits that capture who you are right now, I photograph with a storyteller’s eye across Calvert, St. Mary’s, and Charles Counties.

Black and white film portrait of a woman in loungewear, captured during an intimate boudoir session in NYC with natural light and analog depth

where time slows down….

In a world of instant gratification, we choose to pause. Through the deliberate dance of film photography, I capture the poetry of your most intimate moments – from the raw vulnerability of motherhood to the quiet confidence of boudoir.

Each frame is carefully composed through vintage glass, creating images that feel both timeless and deeply present. The mechanical whisper of my analog camera signals a moment of intention, where artistry meets authenticity.

My approach honors the slow ritual of film – where every exposure is precious, and beauty reveals itself in the unexpected light leaks and grain that digital could never quite replicate. For fellow souls who appreciate the artistry of imperfection, who understand that true intimacy can’t be rushed.

my services

Black and white film photograph of a woman in a patterned bodysuit during an in-home boudoir session, captured on 35mm for a raw and intimate feel

Portrait & Boudoir Photography in Southern Maryland

Full service experience including:


Pre-session consultation
2 rolls of film (scanned) delivered via digital online gallery

Southern Maryland Motherhood Photography

Full service experience including:


Pre-session consultation
2 rolls of film (scanned) delivered via digital online gallery

Black and white film portrait of a pregnant woman standing by a window during an intimate in-home maternity session in Maryland

REMOTE/VIRTUAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Full service experience including:


Pre-session consultation
full digital gallery

my approach

SLOW & INTENTIONAL

Every session is approached with patience and presence, allowing authentic moments to unfold naturally.

INTIMATE & PERSONAL

Creating a safe space for vulnerability and genuine expression through artistic collaboration.

ARTISTICALLY CRAFTED

Blending film and digital mediums to create timeless, cinematic imagery that tells your story.

” Melissa’s energy instantly made me feel beautiful and confident. ”

— sarah

Common Questions

Most of my clients choose to do their sessions in their own home (either as in-person shoot or a virtual session. Renting out a studio or home rental (like an airbnb) is another popular option. I have plenty of spots to recommend all over Charles, Calvert, & St.Mary’s Counties.

We can always discuss any outdoor locations you may be interested in.

I do offer a digital upgrade, however, if film is not your vibe, I’m probably not the photographer for you. Even my images taken on my digital camera reflect my love of film.

4–6 weeks is ideal; rush sessions are sometimes available depending on the season.

Sessions start at $500.

Yes! I offer Afterpay & Affirm.

Nope! I’m an all-inclusive photographer meaning your images are included in your session cost.

A woman stands behind a glass door, partially obscured by reflections and shadows. She lifts one arm to hold a curtain above her head, her other arm bent mid-motion. Dressed in a black tank top, she looks down softly, her expression calm and inward. The scene is quiet and intimate, with muted light and a view of a wooden deck just outside.

Let’s Connect

Whether you’re celebrating your femininity through boudoir or documenting your motherhood journey, I’m here to help tell your story through artistic, intimate photography.


I photograph on-location throughout Southern Maryland, Washington, DC, Annapolis, Alexandria, La Plata, Ellicott City, and Richmond – and everywhere else virtually.