Hi, I’m Melanie! The face behind Melanie Hunley Photography.

Storytelling & connection were the two things that inspired me to begin my photography journey.

The first time I picked up a camera was in 2007 while living and working in The Dominican Republic. I was experiencing a language barrier and to overcome this, I chose photography to help me connect with people on a soul level. It gave me a lens through which to share the stories and experiences I was having with the world and to create memories of my experiences abroad. Going on this trip was driven by my passion for people and I will always have a place in my heart for youth ministry. 

I eventually shifted from photojournalism to wedding photography, but I’ve never lost my obsession with storytelling. In fact, it is a part of everything I do as a photographer and as a business owner. Time has flown by and now I can say I have over 10 years of experience in photography and event coordination.

 

 

I currently live in Dana Point California, known to many as Orange County. I’ve lived here for about 10 years. Utter the word “travel” and know that my ears will begin ringing with anticipation to hear what you have planned and where you want to travel to! This is likely what fuels my passion not just for photography but for the destination elopement experiences that I have fallen in love with when working with clients.

My personal favorite photography locations are national parks like Yosemite and anywhere on the beach, especially anywhere in Hawaii and Laguna beach! I also love a good hike with my couples to find hidden gems! My bucket list places to visit and photograph are Bali and El Salvador.

 

 

I am so excited to share that I recently got married last Fall. Being a Bride-to-be has given me the opportunity to be on the other side of the client experience and has helped me connect with my brides as someone who is currently a bride planning her wedding. We are currently in the process of planning our wedding which will take place on a ranch. 

Having spent so much time storytelling has provided me with the ability to provide excellent work and client experiences. As a client, your needs, wishes, and vision come first, and I prioritize communication

and trustworthiness throughout the entire process. My personal faith is also important to me, and it compels me to treat all my clients with respect, kindness, and fairness.

From the moment you send me an email, I’m all about cultivating a relationship with you so that by the time shoot day rolls around, you’ll think of me as more of a friend than a photographer

I LOVE the beach and you can find me there any time I’m not working. I would consider myself a beach bum and I feel so lucky that I get to marry someone equally passionate about beach life since he has a passion for surfing as much as possible!. One of my favorite things is to sit on the beach and read or edit a session while my fiancé is surfing.

I love sharing the stories I’ve had the privilege of photographing, come follow me HERE on Instagram to see the memories I’ve had the honor of making for the couples that I’ve worked with.