Your day is unique...
Which is why I work with you to cultivate an individualized encounter. Gaining insight into what makes you and your day one of a kind, I begin to experience your distinct narrative and expose the authentic characteristics of your story.
A moment must be created before it can be remembered. With a focus on composing imagery for the educated eye, I approach each moment with the finesse it deserves - because each moment happens only once and warrants a beautiful memory. Years of experience dedicated to developing an elevated aesthetic and distinguished attention to detail equips me to capture fleeting moments with craft and style.
What's in a photo? The capacity to relive emotion, rekindle love, and feature the merit of your milestones. Rendering a true work of art, remember your day with images that reflect a timeless beauty inherent in your most treasured moments.
Everyone has a story. To tell me more about you and the distinct details of your day, contact me at melissa@melissakruse.com.
Melissa | Owner + Photographer, Melissa Kruse Photography
Meet Melissa...
Before inviting me to capture your story, here's a little bit about mine:
Beginning in the quiet suburbs of Minnesota, early creative outlets included illustrating a children’s book, performing in an opera, and exhibiting childhood drawings in local galleries. With the discovery of my grandfather’s Canon AE-100 film camera, I began exploring the artistry of creating and capturing imagery. Shortly after, at age 15, I ventured on my first cross-atlantic adventure to Madrid, Spain where encountering first-hand the works of master artists in an internationally renowned collection at El Prado museum left a lasting impression, and I continue to draw inspiration from virtuosos such as Raphael, Alphonse Mucha, and Gustav Klimt to this day.
After studies in Psychology & Art, I relocated to New York in 2008, bringing to my work the intentionality and thoughtfulness of an artisan while understanding the profound value of connection within relationships and the treasure of documenting when and where it all began. Immersed in a world of artists, designers, and musicians I collaborated in telling their stories with a fresh and thoughtful perspective, embracing every opportunity to authentically capture the essence of each unparalleled moment.
Continuously evolving a distinct style, I bring to each moment a discerning and dedicated sensitivity, whether documenting weddings at the iconic Plaza, Frick Museum, and Jazz Lincoln Center of New York City or river boats docked in a quaint Belgian village and tropical botanic gardens in the north of Australia. Refining a skill and passion designed to document the aesthetic narrative of each day, I continue to prioritize experience - whether it be capturing the bustle backstage at New York’s fashion week or globetrotting in search of new cultures I have yet to encounter - always keeping my perspective fresh and inspired. Wedding features in both print & online around the world include Well Wed Magazine, The Knot, New York Mag, Style Me Pretty, Carats & Cake, In Style, Belle Bridal, and Burnett’s Boards.
Currently dwelling in the creative climate of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, I avidly collect art and experiences from my travels around the world. In my spare time I can be found navigating the pages of thought-provoking literature, laughing with friends over a warm delicious treat, visiting a local Alpaca farm, or planning my next adventure.
Photo by Angela Newton Roy
