After 25 years behind the lens, I’m a big believer that every photography session is a chance to make someone feel special. I care  about every single session I photograph, and it lights me up to put my time and energy into creating a special experience and magical photos you'll treasure per sempre.

But as much as photography lights me up, I'm really here for you. I'm here to hand over your final photos and see you light up. That’s what I live for — that's the real bella luce.  

Meet Michelle 

behind the lens

I was 15 and I remember it like it was yesterday. I was photographing a young girl, and I wanted to shoot her naturally — nothing traditional, nothing posed. As I developed her photo in the darkroom, I knew I wanted to be a photographer.

the first shoot

A college professor once told me I’d never make it because I have no interest in stiff, Rembrandt lighting. Lucky for me, I've always been a bit of a rebel! I left school, moved to California, and started working in the photo industry.

the non-believers

I love working with mothers and families that don’t usually get to do special things, and feel like our session is a real treat. It’s an honor to give them my full attention and care. Those are moments I'll treasure forever.

the best moments

Honestly? Social media is not really my thing. I show up on Instagram from time to time, but mostly I’m showing up day after day for my clients to create magical experiences. That's what I love above all!

the confession

I’ve owned Bella Luce for 14 years now, and I still wake up every day in love with what I do. When I’m not photographing, you’ll find me snuggling on the couch with my partner, Andy, and my dog, Euro, or enjoying the sun. 

the present

My story

inclusion

patience

the details

With me, you’re always welcome to come as you are. With my camera, I’ll see and honor who you are and what makes you you.

I’ll never put you in a time slot. Getting the perfect photo takes patience, and I’m happy to give you my undivided time and effort. 

After 25 years behind the camera, I'm very picky with my photos. My attention to detail helps me see what most don't and get the perfect shot. It’s what I do best.

when I'm behind the lens

what matters most to me

I’m all about capturing what’s real. I’ll direct you to help you feel comfortable, but mostly I’ll let expressions and body movements evolve naturally. I don’t place you into a pose, I create the perfect scenario to help you come alive.

my signature style

Timeless | Ethereal | Delicate | Natural | Warm | Soft

Photography is truly Michelle’s art and she will take whatever time is needed to get it right.

_ Ainsley M.

The best thing about working with Michelle is how comfortable and relaxed she makes us all feel! We’ve never felt rushed during a session. She even came back to our home on a different day to get additional photos for our session because she wasn't able to get any of my daughter and son together the first time! It’s obvious that she really cares about your vision and wants to make sure you have photos you’ll love and cherish forever. I can't recommend her highly enough!

Michelle is warm, inviting, and cares so much about getting you THE BEST photos!

_ Jess T.

There are so many things I love about working with Michelle, but if I had to pick one it would be HER TALENT!! I’m never thrilled with how I look in photos, but Michelle is MAGICAL at finding the right angles and moments. She has such a talent for finding the right look, colors, and patterns to make everything look seamless and effortless. I love Michelle to pieces and will forever be grateful to her for all of her hard work and the beautiful memories she has captured of my family. 

Michelle captures timeless, natural moments that you typically don't capture in photos. 

_ Jennifer R.

Michelle can capture a special look that your child makes while looking into your eyes. A moment that you want to freeze in your memory until you grow old. After working with her and getting to know her as a friend, she has the best personality and is so easy to get along with. Now, I love Michelle as a photographer and as a friend. She is one of the most amazing and kind people I know! Your going to fall in love with her, just like we did!!!! 

I always admired her photos, but when we met, Michelle was so much more than I ever imagined.

_ Alexandra B.

I discovered Michelle as I was dabbling in photography myself and looking at local photographers with the "look" I loved: airy, natural, and beautiful. I was very impressed by her photos, but when I reached out to Michelle, she was so much more than I ever imagined — thoughtful, easy to talk to, and caring. When I finally met her, we connected instantly. She is truly part of our family now!

If you value photography and capturing timeless moments, you want Michelle as your photographer.

_ Jennifer R.

Michelle handles everything to make every session an easy and seamless process!! I am always most anxious about coordinating outfits for my family, but Michelle is absolutely amazing at it. She will either come to my house and help me pick everything out, or I’ll send her lots of pictures and she’ll make a recommendation. She’s never failed us! She always knows what will look best with the scenery. I feel so comfortable with her and trust her recommendations completely. Every time I get my photos back, I’m over the moon!!!

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contact me

Fill out an inquiry form and tell me what you’re looking for. I’ll generally get back to you the same day. Looking forward to meeting you!

reach out to me