Welcome to Luminaria Photography!

Hey there, I’m Michelle and most days you can find me cozied up on my couch working on my laptop with my cutie patootie dog, Bear sleeping next to me (usually with his tongue out - see my Instagram page for copious examples). 

I am known for my endless passion for creativity, love of animals, compassionate nature, my ridiculous knowledge of the Friends TV show, always having a camera or some kind of picture-taking device on me, and my addiction to TV (well-written, dramatic, suspenseful mysteries or competition cooking – yes, please!)

I am a storyteller, a photographer and an educator.  I love to learn and be inspired and provide the same for others.

I am an undefeated Boggle champion within my family and will go to great lengths for authentic New York style pizza or fresh Italian cannoli.  I love to travel and explore new places, especially on road trips with my husband. But I love hanging out at home with him and our dog and a glass of wine just as much.

The people I love to work with are those who are down-to-earth and cherish photography.  Who aren’t afraid to be silly, have fun and be themselves in front of a camera – yoga pants, messy house and all – so I can create an authentic story of their life and family that will be treasured for generations.

Interested?  Let’s talk - I’d love to hear more about you and what you’re looking for!

A few more facts about me...
I’m a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts where I studied art, design, film and theatre.  I've had previous careers as a professional Stage Manager in theatre and a Coordinator on award-winning film and television productions, as well as, local film festivals. Experiences involving lots of multi-tasking, coordinating and organization, which happen to come in very handy with coordinating my photography sessions and running a business.

In addition to running Luminaria, I also love working as the Staff Photographer for Lake Affect Magazine.