PHOTOGRAPHER | Emma Melin Studios

Emma Melin is a queer, New York City-based photographer documenting candid joy and human connection. Drawn to emotion and the beauty in everyday moments, she approaches her work with mindfulness and intuition – balancing gentle guidance with an observation presence. What she values most about her job is the ability to connect with people and witness their stories unfold in raw, vulnerable ways. Emma Melin hopes that her work is a reflection of these moments: honest, emotive, and intentionally seen.

Where are you based?

I am based in New York City, but I serve the greater East Coast area. I am also available for travel!

How would you describe your style?

A prospective client once described my work as "candid joy," and I found that to be the perfect phrase to encapsulate the work I do. Visually, my work is dynamic, inviting, and raw.

What is your most memorable career moment?

Working internationally has been, and always will be a career highlight. Additionally, having the opportunity to shoot at dream venues feels like a real pinch-me moment.

What inspires you?

I love people-watching. Living in New York means you are essentially forced to people-watch every day: while you are waiting  for the train, grocery shopping, or having your morning coffee. It's such an underrated way to find inspiration and see how people move and interact with the world around them!

How would you describe your working style?

Each day and client is different, but I balance observing with giving directions when necessary. I'm not one to redo shots or "fake" something for the camera. If it's important, it will happen organically.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

I shoot both digital and film, with the majority of my work being digital. My goal is to be fully hybrid in the near future.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

There are many countries and cities I would love to work in—too many to name, in fact. Anywhere with texture, landscape, and a rich sense of community would be considered a dream location for me!

Who is your dream client?

My dream clients value authenticity and want their day to be a true reflection of their relationship and the community they've chosen to surround themselves with. They're not afraid to forgo traditions that don't align with them, and they care more about capturing meaningful, candid moments than taking the perfect portrait. They're stylish and in tune with current trends, but love putting their own unique twist on things.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

The wedding process can often be overwhelming, and you may feel pressure to make decisions that don't align with your values or vision. Take a moment to pause and ask yourselves: What are our intentions? Grounding your decisions in what truly matters to you will help create a day that feels authentic, meaningful, and entirely your own.

Emma Melin Studios

Website: emmamelinstudios.com

Instagram: @emmamelinstudios