• charlottesville & richmond •
You love maternity photos that are relaxed, natural, and joyful! I know for many of you this is a maternity session you never thought you'd get so you want images that will capture the excitement and love between you and your spouse!
Don't worry I know exactly what you are looking for! I offer on-location and in-home lifestyle maternity photography in Charlottesville and Richmond VA for couples that have worked so hard to get pregnant. Your maternity session will be relaxed and easy I promise! I will guide you through how to pose to look your best and chat with you along the way to help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
Check the galleries below for full sessions
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"Melissa is simply the best! Out of all the maternity pictures I’ve gotten for previous babies, the pictures I got this time with Melissa are by far my favorite."
kristen B • leesburg, va
If you've taken a look around and love my photos then let's work together! Just fill out the contact form to get all the information about my collection options and see recent full galleries of my work.
You can choose to book just one session or join my membership and have everything documented from pregnancy to baby's 1st birthday. Most of my clients join the membership to take advantage of the savings. Keep scrolling to learn more!
Once you are booked you'll receive a Getting to Know You questionnaire so I can learn more about you and your little family. This will help us plan the perfect session and get all the photos you've dreamed of!
You'll also receive access to my exclusive Client Dashboard with guides for preparing for your Richmond or Charlottesville Maternity, Family or Newborn photography session. These include tips on what to wear and suggestions on places to shop!
It's time to relax and have fun! Whether it's on location at the beach, a garden or park or at your own home. This is where you get to be happy and joyful while loving on that baby bump.
Outdoor Richmond or Charlottesville maternity photography sessions start 1-2 hours before sunset and last about 45 min. At home indoor lifestyle sessions start around 10:00 am to get the best lighting indoors.
Two weeks after our session you'll receive your online slideshow to see all your photos from the comfort of home and then pick your collection. Every collection includes a set amount of digital files plus complimentary gift credit to get started displaying your favorite photos.
After choosing your collection you'll have access to the gallery to download your favorites and spend your gift credit on gorgeous artwork. You can also share the gallery with friends and family!
In order to create a more personalized experience for my clients, I only accept 4-6 portrait bookings per month. Contact me today to get all the pricing info before you book!
You've got so many things on your plate that first year of your baby's life so let me make one thing easy for you! Join my membership and know that you've got a photographer to capture everything from maternity to 1 year family photos!
In order to create a more personalized experience for my client, I only accept 4-6 portrait bookings per month. Contact me today to get all the pricing info before you book!
A: Yes I have been vaccinated against COVID19 since March 2021 and boosted in January 2022. I also have my TDAP vaccine.
A: My schedule books up quickly. I suggest reserving your session date as soon as possible. Maternity sessions occur between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy.
A: Yes! I have several locations that work beautifully for maternity sessions or we can explore a favorite place of your own.
A: I am based out of Charlottesville and travel up to 60 min is included. Beyond that travel fees will apply.
A: Yes you can start a payment plan as soon as you book so everything is paid for when your session occurs and you earn bonus products! I do not offer post-session payment plans.
A: Don't stress about what to wear I have a complete guide you'll receive plus links to tons of outfit inspiration. If you aren't sure about something feel free to email me a photo and I'll let you know if it will work!
A: I've lost count of how many clients have told me they aren't models and can't look like the people on my website and yet they totally rock their sessions. I will guide you through easy posing and tell you exactly what to do so you look and feel amazing. Leave that up to me!
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Melissa Arlena is an award winning Richmond and Charlottesville photographer. She recently earned her Master Photographer Certification in the Maternity, Newborn & Family categories from the National Association of Professional Child Photographers. Melissa offers maternity, lifestyle newborn, and family photography in her relaxed, natural, and joyful style.
Melissa serves Charlottesville, Richmond, Staunton, Fredericksburg, Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, Culpeper, Gordonsville and beyond.
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Melissa Arlena Photography captures newborns, maternity, and families.
Charlottesville and richmond, va
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