Melissa Arlena Photography

So excited for this!!!

https://apnpi.com/simplify-and-succeed-navigating-seo-for-photographers/

Just 2 days away!!!
Melissa Arlena Photography

The clock is ticking...​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Are you joining me for the 2024 {online} Newborn Retreat?

It all happens online Jan 24th - Feb 13th, 2024 and tickets are on sale for $347 USD (save $50!) Sale ends Tuesday night.

24 instructors -- including ME! -- sharing newborn + maternity posing, wrapping and styling, editing and more to help inspire your newborn and maternity photography!

You get to learn from the comfort of home AND download the videos so you have them for life!

Get the full scoop here : https://bit.ly/2024NR-melissaarlenaphotography (go to my bio for the link!)

Tell me if this sounds familiar: during the slow season you make big plans for your marketing … for a few weeks (months?) you stick to it… and it starts to work! 🙌

…but then, as more inquiries start to roll in (and you get busy), that well-thought-out marketing goes right out the window. 🛫

A few months later, you are right back in the same spot…. Inquires are drying up and you are thinking… what the heck!? It’s a cycle that hinders growth, keeping your business stagnant. 😩

Our goal with the Map Your Marketing Summit is to help you break that cycle.

No matter if your business is brand new, or you’re a veteran photographer, The Summit will give you a plan for your 2024 marketing and, most importantly, help you put a system in place to make consistent marketing a goal you actually achieve in the new year! 📈

We’ll start with insights and strategies shared by industry leaders:

✅Unlock the secrets to organic SEO growth with ME.
✅Learn to profitably partner with local businesses from Nicole Begley (Hair of the Dog Academy).
✅Develop a step-by-step plan to transition social media followers to your email list with Annemie Tonken of This Can’t Be That Hard.
✅And finally, let digital marketing master, Dayna Schaaf guide you on effective social media usage minus the time-suck and dread.

We’ll help you construct a comprehensive marketing plan for the entire year, establishing a system to keep your marketing efforts rolling, even when you’re swamped.

Walk away from the summit armed with the confidence to grow your business in 2024. 🚀

At just $47, it’s a no-brainer investment for your business this year.

🥳 Ready to make this year your most successful yet?

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐃𝐌 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤

Are you frustrated by an empty inbox?​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​You’re on a mission to bring in dream clients who can’t wait to work with you and book your calendar solid!

You built a website, crafted the perfect portfolio, picked out products to sell and established yourself as a luxury brand.

But every time you open up your inbox all you hear is crickets and everyone keeps telling you to work on your SEO but you have no idea where to start.

If we’re being honest, you’re starting to get pretty discouraged and are wondering if business is always going to be this frustrating.

Sounds about right? Then you, my friend, are in the right place.

The BIGGEST secret to a fully booked calendar is SEO!

What if you could finally rank on Google, fill your calendar with dream photography clients, and raise your prices without the frustration?

You'd say SIGN ME UP, right?!?! Then head over to my website : https://melissaarlena.com/ (LIB).

There you will find everything from DIY courses like my Blogging Mastery Bundle to my 4 month group coaching program Picture Perfect Rankings.

If you just want to skip the line and hire an expert to do it all for you we've got you covered on that too! Check out our Done For You Services, an SEO optimized website in a week.

Plus check out some of our fun freebies like Pick Your Perfect Homepage Keyword or Blog Topics for Photographers in 2024. LIB to find all the details!

Let's tackle your SEO in 2024 and grow your portrait business!

I could tell I'm fun to work with and I make things easy for my clients but I thought I'd let you hear it directly from some past clients! Scroll through to hear what they have to say.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​When my kids ask what superpower I'd want to have if I could choose I always choose Teleportation because hello not having to sit in traffic ever again sounds like a DREAM!!! I mean there would have to be rules you know, I don't want someone teleporting into my morning shower lol!

But truthfully I do have a superpower..... I can take technical things and make them easy to understand! I spent 10 years in the IT industry before starting my photography business. I spent a lot of time explaining technical things to people and had to learn to uncomplicate it.

When I started my photography business I found myself gravitating more towards technical things like SEO and figuring out how to implement it in my business. I've been doing that for the last 15 years and despite changing genres and moving my biz 2x in 2 years I've managed to grab those coveted top spots on Google and book my calendar with DREAM clients!

I keep up on the latest in SEO and figured out how I can apply it to my photography business. I'm sharing that knowledge with you! Join Picture Perfect Rankings my group coaching program teaching photographers how to tackle their SEO so they can get found on Google and book up their calendars. It's so much more than just a course, you get me in your back pocket along the way ensuring you do everything right!

Are you ready to get found on Google, book your calendar solid and raise your prices? Let's get started today!

👋Let me introduce myself, I'm Melissa Arlena!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​I'm a former IT nerd turned Lifestyle Newborn Master Photographer who is OBSESSED with helping other photographers get found on Google through SEO.

We just moved back to my home state of Virginia and now we call the Charlottesville area home. We live in a 1 stoplight town and I joke that this is where country music comes from!

🤰If you are expecting a baby in the Richmond or Cville areas definitely check out my work and get on my calendar! I offer in home lifestyle photography, no props or crazy poses, just light & bright natural photos for growing families who want to capture these fleeting moments for their memories and to decorate their home.

📸If you are a photographer wanting someone to help you unlock the mysteries of SEO and get found on Google by your dream clients head over to my SEO Education website (LIB). There you can learn more about my Done For You SEO Services along with Picture Perfect Rankings my Group Coaching program where I teach you all my secrets!

⛵️When I'm not behind the camera you can find me decorating my new house, chasing after my 3 kiddos, annoying my husband with my chipper morning attitude or sailing on the Chesapeake Bay as a family on our O'day 40 sailboat!

If you've read this far then let's work together! Click that bio link and pick your adventure. I can't wait to hear from you!

Accurate representation of how I feel clearing my To Do list in time for Christmas break!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​In past years I have over-scheduled myself and not had boundaries around taking on more work. I've had a job since I was 15 years old and I like making money. In fact for many times of my life I've had 2 jobs because why not, I had the time and did I mention I like making money 😉.

That definitely changed after getting married and now 3 kids later I have to fight the urge to book just one more session or take on one more SEO client. I started my business to be my own boss and it turns out I'm kind of an overbearing boss 😂.

💡 I'm trying to be better and one thing I've done that is super helpful is blocking my calendar! Here are some things I have blocked out:

- Mondays & Fridays are NO Meeting days, I can slow roll into the week and slow roll out
- Days kids & hubby are out of school/work, holiday breaks or early dismissal days
- Day before each kids birthday so I can prep decorations, presents, cake etc
- My birthday, who wants to work on their birthday!!!
- Extended holiday boat weekends
- Vacation

If you haven't done this yet for 2024 sit down, grab your calendar and do it now!!! I can't tell you how many times I booked a wedding for Labor Day weekend because the date always changes and I'd forget to look at a calendar before agreeing 🤦‍♀️. Don't be me!

So what days do you take off each year that aren't just the normal holidays?

We’re coming in HOT and kicking off the Black Friday sale with….
BLOGGING GUIDE CHECKLIST & VIDEO!!

Quick note, this checklist is just for those that have a handle on their blogging strategy but want to make sure their posts are SEO ready. If you want more in depth help with blogging stay tuned for The Blogging Blueprint deal dropping tomorrow!

https://melissaarlena.com/blogging-guide-checklist-and-video

It’s one of the newest additions to the shop so I wanted to give it some time in the spotlight!!
Are you ready to feel confident in your ability to make your blog posts Google friendly?
Are you ready to feel confident that every blog post you write will actually rank on Google and bring ideal clients into your inbox?
Are you ready to have a step-by-step guide that covers exactly how to optimize your existing blogs so that Google will LOVE THEM?
Then take advantage and save 25% on my blogging guide checklist & video!

https://melissaarlena.com/blogging-guide-checklist-and-video

HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT!!! I’m yelling because I’m so excited!! This year I was asked to teach in the Milky Way’s 2024 Online Newborn Retreat 🎉💃😍. I’ll be talking about SEO for photographers and sharing the Do’s and Don’ts! Plus check out the details below for TWO chances to win a FREE ticket to the retreat!
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Win a FREE ticket to the 2024 {online} Newborn Retreat, where you’ll learn alongside me and many other talented photographers (all from the comfort of your home!)
NO travel required!
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Step 1: Enter to win here: >> https://bit.ly/2024NR-melissaarlenaphotography (go to my bio for the link!)
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Step 2: For my friends and fans I’m also giving away a ticket to the retreat. Enter to win here: >> https://bit.ly/free-ticket-melissa-arlena (go to my bio for the link!)
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*Winners announced Nov 8th via email (and I’ll DM my fan-winner).
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:: Contest not associated with Facebook/Instagram ::

Let's talk about PODCASTS!!! Tell me what is in your rotation, what do you subscribe to and which one do you listen to as soon as a new episode drops?​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​For me I rotate between True Crime, Photography, TV Show Rewatches and Marketing podcasts.

Current listen as soon as it drops-
The Rewatcher : Buffy the Vampire Slayer

A few favs I'm subscribed to!
True Crime
My Favorite Murder (the OG that got me into podcasts)
Murder with my Husband
Up and Vanished
Vile Virginia

Photography & Marketing (I'm putting a * next to the ones I've guested on, some have already aired and a few are coming up so you get to hear it here first!)
This Can't Be That Hard*
The Motherhood Anthology Podcast*
Chasing Simple
The 7 Figure Photography Coach
Business - First Creatives*
The Art & Soul Show*

So let's hear your favs! Drop them in the comments!

Check out today's Art and Soul podcast episode featuring yours truly talking about SEO!!! 💃

We have 3 spots open for Done for You SEO for the rest of 2023!!! If you want to grab a spot I suggest doing it soon :).

‎The Art & Soul Show - Photography Podcast for Newborn and Family Photographers: Focus on Visibility: Unlocking SEO Strategies for Photographers with Melissa Arlena on Apple Podcasts ‎Show The Art & Soul Show - Photography Podcast for Newborn and Family Photographers, Ep Focus on Visibility: Unlocking SEO Strategies for Photographers with Melissa Arlena - Aug 23, 2023

"Melissa is an SEO magician."​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Melissa is hands down one of the best things I have done for my photography business. Highly recommend as a photographer, mentor and for SEO work! - LRG PORTRAITS

It's always a pleasure to see the impact my work has on my clients' businesses. Striving to provide the best service and support possible, and testimonials like these make it all worth it.

Thank you to all of my amazing clients who have shared their experiences with us!

My favorite thing about being a Charlottesville family photographer is seeing my clients over and over again! I love seeing their kids grow up. I find that being able to photograph them every year makes them excited to have their photos taken since they get to see Miss Melissa again!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​At your family session, we are going to of course get traditional looking at the camera photos but I want you to have more than just a pretty portrait. I want you to play with your kids and make memories during your photo session. I want to capture how you interact as a family in photos and on video!

Hit the link in my bio to check out my website and contact me there!

If you're looking for a way to preserve these special moments forever, you'll definitely want to get a baby album. These albums are the perfect way to showcase your favorite images from your photoshoot and make a beautiful and timeless addition to your family's photo collection.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​So if you're interested in purchasing a newborn photoshoot album, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I'm thrilled to be able to offer this special product to my clients, and I can't wait to help you create a beautiful and lasting memory of your newborn's first days in this world.

Parents, don't miss out on capturing those precious moments with your newborn! ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This is the one that really seals the deal at decision time. The saying goes you get what you pay for and just like wedding photography it’s the same with choosing a newborn photographer. Ask any photographer you are considering for a full pricing guide. Furthermore you need to be aware before the session what the costs will be for what you are looking for. Be realistic too and realize for that photographer you love you might have to save up for a couple months.

Remember that the photographer with the proper gear, education and experience will cost more. When you look at your photos 10 years down the road do you really want to feel regret at not having gone with the work you loved the most? I scrimped and saved for our newborn photographer and never regretted it in the least. Those photos are more precious to me than my wedding photos!!!!

I hope this helps you narrow down your decision on choosing a newborn photographer even if it isn’t me :).

Choosing the right crib for your newborn shoot can make all the difference in creating beautiful, memorable images that parents will treasure for a lifetime.
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In this post, we'll share some cozy baby crib ideas that can help you create stunning newborn photos.
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⭐ Rustic Wooden Cribs for a cozy and natural feel.
⭐ Canopy Cribs for a classic and dreamy vibe.
⭐ Vintage Cribs for a timeless and charming look.
⭐ Modern Cribs for a sleek and minimalist backdrop.
⭐ Wicker Cribs for a unique and textured option.
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No matter the feel you're going for, there's a crib out there to help you create stunning newborn photos.
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If you're interested in booking a newborn photography session with one of these cozy cribs, don't hesitate to DM me today.

Client don't just like us, they love us!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ We are incredibly grateful to receive such positive feedback from my clients like Alison Bell.

"I thought I knew what I was doing. I had no idea what I was doing but her audit and adjustments, some major, some minor, rocketed me to the first page in a matter of weeks!” - ALISON BELL, PHOTOGRAPHER

Hearing that we have exceeded their expectations and helped their business thrive is truly heartwarming.

We are so thankful for the trust that they have placed in us and for the opportunity to work with them.

When my clients are looking for Richmond VA newborn photography with a lifestyle approach I often hear that they want a session in their home to show off their beautiful nursery. They want to include the family pet and they want me to capture their joy at being new parents. These are all the reasons I love doing lifestyle newborn sessions with no crazy poses or props. Just a brand new little family in the place that they love.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​I just adored working with Stacey & Andrew at their indoor lifestyle maternity session back in January. They were just the sweetest and their home was AMAZING!!! I joked around that I needed to rent their living room as a studio space because the light was so good in there. So when it was time for their newborn session I was excited to see them again, now as parents!

Interested in a lifestyle newborn session? Link in bio to learn more!

As a photographer and a mother, I find the most joy in capturing my little girl's precious moments. There's nothing quite like capturing the pure innocence and unbridled curiosity of a child through the lens of a camera. From her first steps to her first smile, every milestone is an opportunity to freeze time and preserve these precious memories forever.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​If you're looking to capture these precious moments with your own daughter, look no further. DM me today and let me help you create beautiful, lasting memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

As a photographer and a mother, I understand how important it is to capture these fleeting moments before they're gone forever. So let's work together to create something truly special.

I'm grateful to receive such wonderful feedback from my clients, like Molly Katherine, who took the time to share her experience with me.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Her kind words speak volumes about my expertise and dedication to helping others.

"I wish I had found Melissa sooner."

She's so knowledgeable and actually taught me how to manage this aspect of my business in a way I could understand! 🙏- MOLLY KATHERINE
PHOTOGRAPHY

I'm so honored to have been able to assist Molly and countless others in their business journeys, and we look forward to continuing to provide exceptional support and guidance to all those who entrust me with their success.

Be sure to check my link in bio to learn more about how I can help you with your website SEO!

My favorite thing about being a Charlottesville family photographer is seeing my clients over and over again! I love seeing their kids grow up. I find that being able to photograph them every year makes them excited to have their photos taken since they get to see Miss Melissa again!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​At your family session, we are going to of course get traditional looking at the camera photos but I want you to have more than just a pretty portrait. I want you to play with your kids and make memories during your photo session. I want to capture how you interact as a family in photos and on video!

DM me now to check out my latest Session Film!

Capturing precious moments of a newborn through photography can be a heartwarming experience. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​So, here are some tips to ensure you capture beautiful and safe photos. 📷💕

💡 Keep the focus on the newborn by choosing simple, neutral-colored outfits for them. Avoid clothing with distracting patterns or logos. Soft, natural fabrics that are comfortable for the baby are ideal.

💡 Choose a room with ample natural light for the photo shoot. Natural light creates a warm and inviting atmosphere and helps bring out the baby's features.

💡 Consider using wall galleries as a backdrop for your newborn photoshoot. You can create a personalized touch by featuring family photos or artwork that holds special meaning.

💡 Less is more when it comes to props. Choose safe and age-appropriate props that add meaning to the photo shoot, such as a special blanket or a sentimental toy.

💡 Toys can add a playful touch to the photo shoot, but be mindful of their size and safety. Avoid toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard to the baby.

💡 If you plan to use the baby's crib as a prop, ensure that it is safe and secure. Never leave the baby unattended in the crib, and always prioritize their safety and comfort.

💡 Prioritize communication with the parents to understand their preferences and concerns. Discuss their expectations, and ensure that they are comfortable with the props and settings used during the photoshoot.

Remember, the safety and comfort of the newborn should always be the top priority in newborn photography. Be patient and gentle, and capture the baby's natural moments with love and care.

Happy photographing! 📷👶🌟

Welcome to the World, Little One! 💕👶​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Choosing the perfect newborn photographer style can be overwhelming, but don't worry, we're here to help!

From candid lifestyle shots to classic posed portraits, we'll guide you through the process of finding the perfect style to capture your family's precious moments.

DM me today to schedule your newborn photography session!

Looking to capture the joy and magic of motherhood with your loved ones? ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​It's a miraculous journey filled with love, anticipation, and joy, and our photos tell a heartwarming story that will be cherished for a lifetime. From the glowing moms-to-be to the sweet baby bumps, each image captures the beauty and magic of this incredible journey.

Don't miss out on preserving these precious memories!

DM me today to schedule your own maternity photoshoot and let us capture the essence of this special time. 📷💕

Double the cuteness, double the love! ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​As a photographer, there's something truly magical about working with twins. Capturing their special bond and individual personalities is a joy that never gets old.

I feel so fortunate to work with so families of twins and multiples, and to witness the unique bond between these special siblings.

If you're a parent of twins, I would love to work with your family and capture the moments you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Let's create some beautiful memories together!

Link in my bio to learn more!