A visual tribute to the people who serve—and the ones who stand beside them
For the Moments That Matter the Most
Washington, D.C. Military Event Photography
- Jane, Air Force Spouse
"Melissa did an excellent job for my husband's promotion. She is so warm but professional and kind. Our images turned out so great. I'm so glad we have these to look back on."
Client love
You don’t have to perform or pretend here. These sessions are about more than just smiles—they’re about connection. The way your kids lean into you without realizing it. The way you laugh when no one’s watching. We’ll keep it simple, honest, and true to your family—so you walk away with more than photos. You walk away with a reminder: this is what love looks like.
Real Moments, Held Close
I'm Melissa, your
Washington, D.C. Military Event photographer
The best photos often happen in the quiet after. The handshakes. The kids running toward a parent in uniform. The tears you didn’t plan for. I’ll capture those, too—with the same reverence and restraint. This isn’t just documentation. It’s your legacy, held with care.
REAL LIFE, NOT JUST RANK
From location logistics to ceremony etiquette, I’ve got you covered. This isn’t just about standing at attention—it’s about the in-between glances, the family pride, the weight of the moment. I’ll move with discretion and purpose, so you can stay present.
A SESSION BUILT ON RESPECT AND EASE
Military ceremonies are rich with tradition—but they’re also deeply personal. Before your event, we’ll talk about what this moment means to you: the people, the legacy, the story behind the uniform. Whether it’s a promotion, retirement, or homecoming, I’ll document it with intention and care.
WE BEGIN WITH WHAT MATTERS MOST
Your service,
captured with care
Washington, D.C. Military Events
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washington, D.C. military event Photographer
Military portfolio
The Complete Experience
From one military family to another—this isn’t just a job to me. It’s personal.
I’ll guide when needed, but mostly I’ll be quietly present—watching for the moments that matter most, so you don't have to. These events go by in the blink of an eye, but I'll capture every detail for you to remember.
A DOCUMENTARY APPROACH, WITH HEART
I know what it’s like to move every year, to count down deployment days, to always live far away from family and your best friend, to find the moving stickers on literally everything. This season is hard, but worth it. It holds pride, pressure, transition—and I carry all of that with me when I photograph your event. You don’t have to explain the emotion. I’m already paying attention to it.
I’M AN AIR FORCE SPOUSE OF 13 YEARS - SO I UNDERSTAND THIS LIFE
- Lilly, mom of four
We had such a great experience working with Melissa! Booking, payment, and communication was so easy! She found us a wonderful location and time of day for our shoot. She put us and the kids at ease and was so personable. She did some extra pictures of our Senior and they turned out so well! The lighting... editing.. everything was amazing! She got the gallery to us so quickly. She MORE than met our expectations! I highly recommend!
"We had such a great experience working with Melissa!"
- Up to 4 hours of event coverage
- Base access to installations in the area
- Travel between locations
- All Your Best Images, hand-edited (60+)
- Print Product Options Available
What's included:
Perfect for retirement and promotion ceremonies, change of commands, group homecomings, & more. This package includes plenty of time to capture family images before the event, the event itself, and your reception afterwards.
Northern Virginia & D.C.
Military Event Photography
Valor Experience
Your investment: $750
- Up to 2 hours of event coverage
- Available in Washington, D.C. Virginia, & Maryland
- All your Best Images, hand-edited (35+)
- Print Product Options Available
What's included:
Perfect for shorter promotion and retirement ceremonies, re-enlistments, fini flights, airport homecomings & more.
Northern Virginia & D.C.
Military Event Photography
Honor Experience
Your investment: $550
I recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance to ensure your preferred date. During busy seasons (spring and fall), I am often booked up 2-3 months in advance. However, feel free to reach out even if it's last-minute, as I may have space!
1-3 months in advance
You’ll receive a sneak peek within a week of your event. Your full gallery of 40+ images will be ready within two to three weeks of your session.
3 weeks or less!
As an active duty spouse, you don't have to worry about whether or not I can get on base/post. I've also been to the Pentagon, DHS, & other installations that require a little extra work to get civilians on - and it's no problem.
i sure do
Yes! Your gallery includes access to a professional print lab with beautiful, high-quality prints and products. I also offer custom-designed heirloom albums.
yes! Let's print your photos
