Telling your brand’s story should be as genuine as the places you explore.

Authentic Narrative & Outdoor Lifestyle Imagery

 

Capture the story by living the adventure

 

About the Photographer

My Philosophy

I don’t want a session or an event to be about taking photos; I want the photos that are captured to be about the experience itself. My focus is on fostering an environment where the camera disappears. I never want to enforce stiff positions, nor do I create energy that feels synthetic or untrue. Being a visual storyteller means to capture the organic truth of a moment.



Sometimes we can forget that life is not perfectly staged. I hope that through my photographs, you are reminded that it's the unplanned, effortless moments that often become your most cherished memories. My only request, is that you allow yourself to have fun and be entirely present so that you can  live through an experience worth reliving.

Mel is a documentary-style photographer who works with  purpose-driven brands, travel outfits, and organizations to create timeless imagery that feels lived-in and deeply human.


Her journey behind the lens is deeply intertwined with a lifelong passion for exploration. Her camera has been her constant throughout several life stages and moves from growing up in Atlanta to university in Miami, to landing her first job in Austin, and spanning over a year of work and travel through Australia and Southeast Asia. Mel has used photography as a universal language to connect with diverse communities worldwide. 



At her core, Mel is an outdoor enthusiast who is happiest when a session involves natural light, shifting elements, and a sense of adventure. No matter the setting, her focus remains entirely on ease by prioritizing a fun, relaxed environment.


Capture the story by living the adventure

My love for photography began as a childhood tradition of trading disposable cameras on family trips, but it evolved into a mission to celebrate connection. I approach every shoot with both a creative eye and a focus on what matters most: making you feel seen, celebrated, and completely at ease. 


My journey behind the lens is deeply intertwined with a lifelong passion for exploration. My camera has been my constant throughout several life stages and moves from growing up in Atlanta to university in Miami, to landing my first corporate job in Austin, and spanning over a year of  work and travel through Australia and Southeast Asia. I've used photography as a universal language to connect with diverse communities worldwide.


Whether I'm running alongside local athletic clubs, collaborating with global travel operators, or documenting boutique stays, my camera is a tool for seamless integration. I don't just point and shoot; I step into an environment on a mission to capture the true heartbeat the place and people from the inside out.

My Adventure Resume

Pick a destination to travel to with me!

Ireland

Greece

Switzerland

Spain

England

Monaco

France

Croatia

Japan

Korea

Indonesia

Vietnam

Thailand

Philippines

China

Costa Rica

Guatemala

Belize

Bahamas

St. Kitts & Nevis

United States & USVI

British Virgin Islands

Guadeloupe

Jamaica

South Africa

Morocco

Israel

Tanzania

Australia

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Destination

Region

Special Expedition, 2024

Red Bull Can You Make It? Adventure Challenge

The Houston Chronicle

Interior Design Highlight

For this project, I was asked to photograph an interior remodeling of a 60ft catamaran for the design and fabrics company. The story was then published in The Houston Chronicle, displaying these photos in the story online and in print.

Read the Article

Times Square Billboard Feature

Using My Passion to Drive Change


“One of my images was featured on a Billboard in Times Square, NYC to help end the stigma around mental health through the Quell Foundation's board.”

MEL

HARTZ

PHOTOGRAPHY

Capturing the moment by prioritizing the expereince

email: melhartz@gmail.com