Erin Melissa Photography

LoveBirds :: Dustin & Whitney's Engagment Session

2010-06-24T14:30:00.006-05:00

With all of the wedding's I've shot and second shot, you would think that I've photographed plenty of engagement sessions... Believe it or not, below is the first e-sesh I've ever shot! In March, I teamed up with another photographer, Zach Johnson, for Dustin and Whitney's shoot. Let me say... I'm addicted to E-seshs now. Watching couples interact with each other and capturing their "I'm so in love with you" smiles... You can't beat that!

LifeStyle :: '10 Seniors, Tyler & Katelyn

2010-06-22T17:02:00.006-05:00

Well, you've already seen Tyler and Katelyn's individual photos. Now it's time to reveal the photos of them together! We scheduled their shoots at the same time. The benefit in that, is that... They both received a discount AND we were able to get shots of them together! I believe that sharing shoot times/ bringing a friend to the shoot makes it all the more fun! And who could pass up a discount? So, ask a friend to share a shoot with you and ask me about the discounts you'll both receive!

Also, check out the photos below. Tyler and Katelyn have been dating for about 2 years... They're a great couple and I'm excited for what the future holds for them! I had so much fun on this shoot! Enjoy the photos!!

LifeStyle :: '10 Senior, Katelyn

2010-06-21T14:05:00.003-05:00

As promised, this is part 2 out of a 3 part blog post set. Katelyn is such a sweet and beautiful young lady. She's really involved in softball, loves cheer leading, being outdoors, and hanging with friends. There's not much more to say, because the photos speak for themselves.

Next post :: Photos of Tyler & Katelyn together!

LifeStyle :: '10 Senior, Tyler

2010-06-17T21:38:00.005-05:00

Meet Tyler. What a cool guy... He's interested in hunting, football, music, movies, and paintball. He's also planning on going into law enforcement... Sweet!

We were able to capture a huge amount of diversity throughout his photo shoot and I'm thrilled for you to see the results. The next post will be his girlfriends senior photos and then another post filled with photos of them together! This is a fun series. Enjoy!!

LifeStyle :: Promo Photos

2010-06-10T11:25:00.003-05:00

In April, my friend Miriam called and asked if I could fit a last minute photoshoot into my schedule. Her father, Mr. Goldstein, was visiting for the week and was hoping to get some promo shots that he could use when advertising for guitar lesson. My schedule was pretty flexible the week, so we met up for a quick shoot. Throughout our shoot we were keeping a close eye on the weather, fighting against some sprinkles. But we managed to shoot for almost an hour before the April truly showered.

Much thanks to Miriam, her hus, and mom for keeping the shoot fun and upbeat!

Culture :: Helping Nashville Heal

2010-05-07T23:42:00.008-05:00

Water measurements cannot even begin to sum up the devastation that Nashville's residents are facing. The impact of the May flooding is one of the most destructive natural disasters to ever hit Middle Tennessee. We are truly at a loss for words to describe the efforts it will take to rebuild Nashville and its surrounding areas.

This is a call to all Nashville Photographers...
As photographers, our hearts especially ache when we realize how many families lost all their photos due to water damage and how many soon-to-be-married couples now have to use their wedding funds towards home repairs. The more we think about these losses the more we're convinced that we must help Nashville heal!

Our photography community is sharing and always ready to give. So let's offer our time and talents where we can. Challenge yourself and others to find one family, who lost their photos, and offer them a FREE session. Or find one couple and give them a HUGE discount on one of your wedding photography packages. Find the homeless and offer to take their photo, then give them the print. There is at least one person that you can bless immensely. We can help Nashville heal by photographing one person at a time. We can partner with non-profit groups that are already working towards rebuilding Nashville. We can GIVE, GIVE, GIVE and be a community of photographers known for helping others heal. So RIGHT NOW, go post on your blogs, facebooks, and social networking outlets... Ask people to nominate friends and family who would be blessed by whatever photographic gifts you can give.

Free photo sessions might feel like only a small effort right now but in the long run, they'll make a greater impact than we can imagine. PLEASE, don't stop once Nashville looks healed. There is always someone in need.
We must be selfless and help others heal.

To Middle TN Residents...
Nominate your friends and family for a free/discounted photo session. You can even nominate a stranger.
Just send an email to erin@erinmelissa.com

LoveBirds :: Casey & Shana's Wedding

2010-05-02T20:51:00.008-05:00

As most of you know, last year, I participated in a photography internship lead by Sarah Barlow. This internship played a big role in kick starting my business and I've learned countless lessons since then. So, it's fitting that a year later, Sarah asked me to second shoot a Nashville wedding with her.

Enter Casey and Shana... What a sweet couple! Their wedding day was filled with amazing friends and family, delightful weather, and a beautiful romance! It was the definitely a picture perfect day! I hope you enjoy the photos!
Check out Sarah's photos from the wedding too.

LifeStyle :: '10 Senior, Ahnna

2010-03-25T12:28:00.005-05:00

Vintage books, antique cameras, old suitcases, inherited quilts, and retro bikes... These are a few of Ahnna's favorite things!
Luckily, I love these things too and Ahnna wanted to include them in her Senior Photos! Take a look...

This girl is down right adorable, isn't she?

Ahnna is also amazing intelligent, a constant dreamer, and a blessing to those who have the privilege of knowing her.

Can you tell that she's full of life?

...Wise beyond her years?

...And stunningly gorgeous? Well, she is.

This book quoting, movie memorizing, Bon Iver singing, and family loving girl is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
She represents the 2010 Class well and is going to impact the world in great ways!

Congrats on your upcoming Graduation, Ahnna!!!

Culture :: Narrow Gate Ministry

2010-03-19T18:30:00.001-05:00

The following photos are from a Narrow Gate Graduation. Narrow Gate is a wilderness life discovery experience for young men between the ages of 18 and 25. Over the past year, I've had the pleasure of getting to know the leaders and men that make up the Narrow Gate family. This in an incredible ministry that gives guys an opportunity to take a break from life and discover their passions and purpose. They graduate with new goals and direction. This clear vision for their future deters them from getting side tracked and held hostage by unhealthy habits. The Graduation is a definitely a celebration of these guys revolutionized lives. I hope you enjoy a glimpse into the Ceremony and some photos from the Narrow Gate Property.

Pictured on the left: Bill Spencer. He and his wife, Stacy, are Narrow Gates' Executive Directors. Top Right: Gradate Trever reading his Vision and Purpose Statement, a declaration of his transformed life and future pursuits. Bottom Right: Graduate Ryan, also reading his Statement.

Reading their Vision and Purpose Statements left to right: David, Scott, and Dustin. It's really cool to hear about how their lives have changed and where they feel called to in the future!

All the Grads are presented with a sword and the top photo is of that presentation. Below are shots from the fathers reading blessing over their sons. This is one of my favorite moments in the Graduation Ceremony. So touching!

Here's a group of Narrow Gate men, past and present classes, along with Bill and Stacy. The next photo is one I shot right after the Ceremony... What a gorgeous sky!

Last photos from that day... Moses craved into a tree on the property (unreal, I know!) and a close up of some wood (I really enjoy nature macro shots).

There is another Gradution on tomorrow, so I'll most new Narrow Gate photos soon! If your interested in learning more about this ministry please visit their Website and follow them on Twitter.

Have a great weekend!!

Business :: St.Patrick's Camera Bag

2010-03-17T16:57:00.011-05:00

Hey Fellow Bloggers, I apologize for being MIA recently... I'm back now and here to stay!

This is a quick post in honor of St.Patrick's day and my new ShootSac (aka camera bag), that arrived in the mail today (hence the cheesy title). These two occasions inspired me to debut my new blogging layout!

What do you think? The photos are displayed collage style, which allows you to view more photos and scroll down less. And I've simplified my watermark.

My photography business has changed in many ways recently and there are many more changes to come. I think these changes are for the best and I hope you agree!

Enjoy your day and be on the lookout for my next blog post, this Friday!

Business :: BRAND NEW!!

2010-02-13T20:35:00.002-06:00

The Website

The Fan Page (View Website Tab)
How cool is that?! You can view The Website on The FB Page!

The Q&A Page

Twitter

& The Photo Blog

One the the biggest changes is the my mission as a photographer. My ultimate goal has always been to give back to others and I've come up with a way to effectively do so.. From now on 10% of every Photo Session will fund my non-profit shoots, charity work, and mission trips. Isn't that exciting?! To read the full story check out the "LEARNmore" page on my Website.

Check everything out and let me know what you think!!!

Much thanks to Christy Techentin, Rose VR, Julia Miller, and John Crouch! I wouldn't have made it through this re-branding process without you guys!

Business :: Brand Re-Launch

2010-01-07T15:53:00.001-06:00

Designing a website is a lot like designing a room. Both need to be comfortable, inviting, beautiful, and showcase your style. Have you ever designed a room? Do you ever feel like changing the design every few months? Me too. So designing my photography website has triggered months of brainstorms, hours upon hours of testing ideas, and FINALLY... I have a design that I'm truly happy with. All the foundational designing is completed and now I'm working on the details.

Therefore, the website should be released (cross your fingers) by the end of January! My Facebook Fan Page, Twitter, and this Photo Blog are going to be completely redesigned to coordinated. Doesn't that sound delicious? But wait there's more....

With the Re-Launch of my brand I'll also be sharing with you the new "mission statement" for my photography business! That might sound boring now, but trust me... You'll LOVE it!

Get EXCITED for the Re-Launch at the end of January and enjoy the new year!

Just for Fun :: Wedding Entrance

2009-07-22T21:07:00.001-05:00

Sheer Brilliance!!!!!

Personal :: A Letter to Igbok

2009-07-08T14:41:00.001-05:00

I don't know where to begin...

My friend, who was 21, just passed away from a very rare blood disorder. He fought long and hard for years. The last three months I was by his side consistently... We prayed till the end for healing. And God did heal him - just not on this earth. As he slipped out of this world into Jesus' arms He probably said "Son, Welcome home.. The war is over."

One week later, A dear friend of mine was in a horrible motorcycle wreck. He sustained multiple serious injuries... But praise God... He's our sustainer! The EMT's and police basically said "There is no earthly reason why he should be alive." I know why he survived, God has great plans for that man.

Exactly one week later, family and friends of the first young man I mentioned were in a terrible jet ski accident. His sister walked away with no physical injuries, to my knowledge. His friend and honorary cousin, were life-flighted... Both had serious head injuries. The friend, my friend, underwent surgery to remove a piece of his skull in hopes relieving swelling in his brain. He's going to be alright. The cousin, crushed the left side of his face. We're currently praying that God will restore his eye... the doctors are wanting to remove it.

One month of storms.

Last night, I heard about the jet ski accident… I sat at bible study sobbed for a full hour. I know with all my heart that everything is going to be okay. I know that God has everything in His hands and that He uses everything for His glory. Still, I wept. It seems to be the only way I process things these days.

And then my friend held me and told me over and over again... “It's gonna be o.k.”

I know it's true. Because his words were from God.

----

I've seen the "igbok" logo in many places recently. I always wondered what it stood for... always meant to look it up. And today, I stumbled upon your website. Your statement is truth and I'm so thankful that you're putting this message out there. Thank you!!

May all the glory and honor be to our King!!!

LoveBirds :: Elizabeth's Bridal Portraits

2009-07-03T17:51:00.002-05:00

Today, I was looking through some of my March '09 photos and I came across Elizabeth's bridal shoot. This shoot was very special to me because it was Keoni K's session but he had invited me to tag along. Believe it or not, this was also my first bridal session.

Elizabeth was a star! So easy to work with and SO much fun! I couldn't have asked for a better bride. Born and raised in Nashville; she's a true Southern belle! Because of this Keoni decided to shoot at The Parthenon... And in all honesty I was worried that the pictures would be original, thinking "everyone shoots at the parthenon." Oh boy, I was proved wrong! Elizabeth flourished and glowed in the setting of elaborate pillars and stone!!

Keoni, Thanks again for giving me the opportunity to shoot with you... I appreciate the fact that you're always willing to teach me the tricks of the trade!

Dearest Elizabeth, Thanks for letting me help shoot your bridal session and wedding. I loved getting to know you!!

Many Blessings

Personal :: Urgent Update about Brandon!!

2009-06-19T17:26:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago I blogged about my friend Brandon... If you haven't read that post please do.

Much has changed since that post and Brandon is now in ICU. He's on a ventilator because he can't breathe deeply enough to filter out the CO2 in his body. The doctors have said that "the ventilator is the only thing keeping us from losing him right now and the time is drawing close to letting go." For more information follow his updates.

Beloved, I beseech you, please pray...

We are believing for Brandon's healing.

We know that God is more than capable of this. So we will petition for it.

(And if God's plan is not for healing, we know it's for His glory. No matter how painful it is for us.

It absolutely does not mean that God failed us or that He was incapable of healing.)

We are praying for Brandon's family and closest friends; for grace, faith, peace, and clarity.

We are praying for the doctors and nurses; for trust, belief, and faith.

We are praying that no one gives up on Brandon and God's strength.

We are praying for God's breath of Life to flow through Brandon!!!!!!!!!!

Join us in prayer, fasting, pleading, crying, and believing.

Do not give up.

I know spiritual warfare is not easy... But DO NOT let that stop you from waring.

God's grace is there!

Feel free to leave comments and prayers. I'll share them with Brandon/his family.

"Break my heart for what breaks Yours, Everything I am for your Kingdom's cause." - Hosanna

by Hillsong United

"There is no safe investment. To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket - safe, dark, motionless, airless - it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable." - C.S. Lewis

Personal :: Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-06-17T23:09:00.001-05:00

I love you very much!!!!! And I pray that is year full of grace, peace, and blessing. You're growing so much in the Lord and through that you're ever growing in your parenting. Thanks for staying patient with us youngsters. You're always providing for us and we really do appreciate it. Did I ever say thank you for your prayers for me? Well, thank you!!!!!! I would be living a completely different life without those prayers. I fear we give you far too little credit. I have no clue how you manage the 4 of us kids... 3 teens at that. Also, thank you for supporting my photography endeavors, along with the many other things I've pursued in my lifetime!

How do I sum all of this up? I suppose that a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY will do!!

Bunches of love,

Your 1st born.

LifeStyle :: 9fruits Smoothies Promo

2009-06-11T00:15:00.001-05:00

Let's do some math... I've been in college for 2 weeks now. I've already pulled 1 all-nighter. I've been working almost 24-7 on school work and photography. And my bed time has been past 2am every night. In my book that adds up to NO free time. Zero. Zip. Nadda. Most of the time, the only break that seems logical is a trip to 9fruits in Cool Springs. I'm friends with everyone that works there so I get some socializing in and I get a great smoothie (a.k.a. brain power for long work days!) Have I ever mentioned that smoothies are my 2nd love? Well they are. You might ask "Erin, what's your 1st love?" Great question... Coffee!! I've had a cup-o-joe almost every morning since 8th grade. Yep, It's the best way to start the day! Now you're probably wondering why I'm ranting about smoothies and coffee. Let me explain...

9fruits had a 99cent smoothie day a few weeks ago. When I dropped by Kevin (one of the owners) asked me to take some photos. I happily obliged and these are some of the results....

Paramore partnered with 9fruits for this event! So there was an abundance of sleeves signed by the band.

Here's Kevin showing one of them off.

There was a line of customers from the register to the door almost all day!! These girls were in that line with their parents, and they were far from camera shy. (If you're this cute and love the camera... I'll definitely shoot you!)

Paramore shirt for the giveaway.

These crazy boys are known as Kyle, Galen, and Kevin. 9fruits is Kyle and Kevin's business.

I have a world of respect them and all under 25 year olds who run their own businesses.

(Soapbox moment: I believe that there are extremely low expectations on my generation. And I acknowledge that the majority of my generation has earned those low expectations by never going out of their comfort zone. Yes... it takes risk, vision, and faith to reach for your dreams... so anyone that takes that initiative earns my respect. Soapbox moment over. Thanks for paying attention.)

Galen is always an enthusiastic when it's time to wash the dishes....

And Kyle always smiles when making smoothies....

;)

That's all for now. Please, drop by 9fruits next time you're in CoolSpings... Their smoothies are made with natural fresh fruits so it's definitely worth every penny! Plus, you'll be supporting part of my generation that is following their dreams and not settling for low expectations!

Personal :: Looking Back & Preview

2009-06-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Last year, around this time, I was making the decision to take a year off from school. Little did I know, God was going to work through that choice to drastically change my life! This photography business would be non-existent if I had gone straight into college. That means I'd be missing out on friendships with amazing fellow photographers and the opportunities to work with such incredible clients... amongst many other things. And believe me when I say... I would hate to miss out on these things! Words can't even describe how incredibly grateful I am that God's called me into this industry!! It's causing me to rely on Him more than ever before and I wouldn't have it any other way. :) This year off has been full of milestone after milestone and when I look back on it my heart is overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness. With that said... Goodbye year off and hello new season! I know God's going to use this season to mold my character and to show me His never ending grace. As of yesterday, I'm enrolled in 12 credit hours of online college courses. This within itself is not a problem, until you add running a business into the mix. Cue God's never ending grace because I'm going to need it! And I LOVE that He will absolutely, unfailingly provide it... So I'm not worried at all!!

...There's a glimpse into my life now here's a glimpse at a recent shoot...

This is musician Kris Bell. He's a great guy and I enjoyed getting to know him throughout the shoot! Keep your eyes open for more of his photos and his CD which is set to release early this summer!

LifeStyle :: '09 Senior, Molly

2009-05-31T14:44:00.001-05:00

Meet Molly... She's full of energy, love, and attitude! Her sarcasm will outdo yours any day and she can keep a straight face for hours. Then a switch flips and she's jumping around, frolicking in fields, and winning you over with her abundant joy!

I must share the story behind this next photo... Molly was running through the wheat field when she tripped and fell to the ground! She almost knocked me on the ground too! After making sure she was okay, we laughed for a long time and I ask her to stay on the ground for a few photos. The trip was totally worth it because we got this sweet photo...

Much thanks to Molly's dear friend Cheyenne for tagging along during the shoot. She brought so much life to the session by making faces, telling jokes, and dancing with Molly! Both of these girls were such a joy to work with!!!

Dearest Molly, I'm excited for what the future holds for you! I think the college you chose is a perfect fit for you and I know you'll have a great time. Thanks so much for letting me shoot you! It might sound cheesy but I'm glad we became friends through this whole process... And I'm looking forward to getting to know you even more!!

Business :: Website

2009-05-23T13:17:00.001-05:00

Here's a sneak peek of my new website! Isn't the new logo remarkable?! Much thanks to Sarah Barlow! Recently, I've been swamped with shoots, editing, and spending my free time at the hospital with Brandon. But I'm doing my best to get the site up and going.... Thanks for your patience!

In the mean time, be on the look out for rock artist Kris Bell and highschool senior Molly Ball's photos. :)

I hope everyone is enjoying the beginning of summer!

Personal :: Brandon!

2009-05-10T23:18:00.002-05:00

Driving home from the hospital I realized that apathy was no longer an option. Because my heart decided to make it's home in Vandy hospital room #8526. I had heard so much about this guy... All the doctors said there was "no hope" for him... but all of the church said "Jesus is going to prove them wrong."

His name is Brandon Klein and, with every breath he breathes, he is God's miracle. Medically speaking Brandon has a very rare disease called Refractory CIDP, this virus is causing his autoimmune system to attack his body. Simple stated, for the last six years his body has been breaking down. Chemo therapy is the scientific treatment but the real key is prayer. Brandon's brothers and sisters in Christ have been interceding for him from since day one. And God is answering our prayers in more than one way!!

The strongest blessing I've seen God form through sickness and trial is unity. A unity that unites the church and draws all closer to God's heart. This is ever present within Brandon's story... It's been a long time since I've seen people join together in faith, so passionately. Everyone I've talked to is learning something new about prayer, hope, and faith. The nurses and doctors have noticed something different about this crazy group of kids who have Brandon's hospital room packed full almost 24/7. We're believing for his healing and God is responding! Less than a week ago Brandon was in ICU and the doctors were saying what I mentioned earlier "there is no hope" (Ha!) not true. Brandon was better and out of ICU within a few short days!! Praise God!!

Not only is he out of ICU but over the past three days we've been taking him for a walk once a day. Technically, he's not allowed out of the hospital but his nurses know he needs the fresh air so they look the other way when we leave. We were even able to get him a haircut in Hillsboro Village the other day!

As you can probably tell, I've been spending all my free time at the hospital and I wouldn't have it any other way!

For more information on Brandon and daily updates please go to his website. And of course pray for his healing!!!!!

LifeStyle :: '09 Senior, Griffin

2009-05-05T23:46:00.001-05:00

On March 29, my friend, Griffin and I headed out before sunrise to shoot his senior photos. I was already excited about this session because Griff is such a great friend and as soon as the photographing started I knew it was going to be a good shoot! You see... Griff is a professional optimist :) and it turns out he could also be a professional model. Seriously, he followed all the instructions I gave him while still making the poses his own. That takes talent! The session quickly turned into an all day event, despite the cold, because of our amazing and unending location list. For example we hit the location jackpot with this bus and desk/chair set...

After seeing the finial photos from the shoot Griffin's family decided to let me design his graduation announcements. The design process was a collaborative effort and the results are completely one-of-a-kind! The first picture is the front side and the second is the back...

Don't they look fantastic? This makes me wonder why I didn't start offering these to my clients sooner?!

The text on the back is a song written by Griff's dad. I was really touched by reading the lyrics and listening to the song, which Griffin's mom played for me a few days ago. He's extremely blessed to have such amazing parents!!

I really can't speak highly enough of Griff and his family! And I'm definitely excited about working with them in the future!

Business :: Internship Overview

2009-05-01T19:29:00.002-05:00

I spent 11 days interning with Sarah Barlow. These days went by extremely fast yet, I feel like I've known her for months. She taught me valuable business practices, networking, and how to party with rock stars! We also spent countless hours in creative moods where little was said, expect for a timely "what is your hunger level?" conversation. Then we would visit one of Nashville's best coffee shops or restaurants.

With passion for photography in our bones we documented the highlights of the internship... Enjoy...

Twins at heart :)

Sarah's place has THE BEST view of Nashville's Skyline

The party literally came to us... Our sign might look like a craft project but her place was legitimately "The Green Room - VIP Only"

Concert going...

...Phillip LaRue playing at 12th and Porter! His music will be featured on my website which is coming soon!

Hanging with friends/ Ryan wearing my scarf and Lauren's sunglasses... Work it!

We stopped a photo shoot to talk with this homeless man. He wanted a picture with Amy (on the right) and I. We promised him a copy if he showed up to our monday homeless outreach...

Sarah's involved with this wonderful ministry where they bring food and clothing to Nashville's homeless every Monday night! We had the privilege of helping out this past Monday and we brought our cameras along... So that we could take a photo of the men and women who wanted one. Our plan is to print the photos out and give them to each individual next week. Many of them are excited to have this small treasure either to cherish for themselves or send to their family. I was extremely inspired by all the conversations I shared with everyone that night... A large amount of the homeless are doing their best to reach their goals. For example, some are attending college and taking medical courses in order to better serve others in their community. Speaking of their community... They've stolen my heart and I plan on continuing to serve and love Nashville's homeless!

Towards the end of the internship Amy modeled for Sarah and I. She has a beautiful testimony and God's redemption shines through her. Isn't she absolutely stunning?!

Last but not least, Sarah shot hundreds of photos of me.... She's the most encouraging and joyous photographer I know!! Her ability to draw me out from my comfort zone (behind the camera) and set me at ease in front of the camera is incredible! I'm honored to call her friend, extremely grateful for everything that she's poured into me over the last 11 days, and ecstatic to know that she'll continue to be there for me over the years!! Thank you Sarah Barlow!!!!