It’s a mild, late-fall afternoon. Melissa Robin stands behind her Canon 5D Mark II—a familiar place for her.
Her sapphire-blue eyes shimmer as she peers through her favorite 85mm lens, taking in a perfectly composed scene. She smiles knowingly. This is where she belongs.
“The reality is, photography chose me. Nothing else ever gave me the same release or inspiration.
From the first moment I held a camera, I knew photography would become a powerful force in my life. It’s how I let go of negative energy. It’s how I heal. It’s how I celebrate what matters most.
There is nothing more satisfying than capturing a beautiful moment—or creating a dream—and sharing it.”
In absorbing Melissa’s body of work, it becomes clear that inspiration is never in short supply.
“I’m inspired by a range of things: color, music, light, my dreams, and most of all, human emotion. These elements overlap, shift, and combine endlessly.
But ultimately, it’s about connection. The moment someone opens up—when they let me past the walls guarding their heart—that’s when the magic begins.
Telling their story. Seeing emotion surface and breathe. That’s what I’m drawn to.”
“I love scouting locations. When I lived in New Hampshire, it was easy—abandoned warehouses, forest clearings, winding rivers.
Now in New York City, my eye has shifted. Alleys, buildings, windows, staircases, parks—anywhere with texture and character.
I geo-tag everything. When a concept forms, I go back through my catalogue and match the perfect location.”
Process & Moments
When asked about her most memorable experiences behind the camera, Melissa reflects on both the emotional and the in-between moments.
“It’s hard to pick just one.
Watching a subject open up is always powerful. But I also love the behind-the-scenes moments—the transformation.
Hair and makeup. Costumes. Character coming to life. The energy on set. Even the ridiculous things I ask people to do to get the perfect shot.
It’s hard work, but when it all comes together—it’s worth it.”
Melissa was recently awarded Photographer of the Year, NYC 2012 by RAW Natural Born Artists.
Her reaction is grounded in humility:
“Honestly, I’m very humbled.
Looking back, I can see my growth and how my style has evolved. This award validates my path. It reminds me that how I see the world resonates with others.
There were so many talented photographers competing—I was shocked just to be a finalist. Winning is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Philosophy
“The art of photography spans such a wide range of subjects.
I hope my work brings new perspectives—more empathy—to areas often overlooked.
There is beauty in what we often label as ‘ugly.’ There is healing in exploring darkness.
If someone connects to my work—whether it’s the emotion, the concept, or even a single detail—then I’ve done something meaningful.
I want people to create. To explore. To find their own outlet.
You are the only limitation in your life.”
What’s Next
Melissa is currently immersed in an ambitious project:
“I’m in the middle of a 366-day self-portrait series—one self-portrait every day since January 1st.
I didn’t expect how difficult—or how personal—it would be. It’s been invasive, exhausting, but also incredibly rewarding.
Looking back, I can see strengths and weaknesses I never noticed before. It’s pushed me to stay creative every single day.”
She plans to continue building both her commercial and fine art work:
“I’ll keep growing my portrait and wedding business—it keeps me connected and inspired.
I’m also continuing my fine art series, with the goal of publishing them as books.
And I want to travel—experience new environments and cultures, and bring those into my work.”
Gratitude
“I want to thank my family and friends. I wouldn’t be here without them.
Their support has shaped who I am.
And the creative community I’ve been part of—models, photographers, makeup artists—so many incredible people.
All of you have influenced me in some way.
You are all beautiful. Thank you.”
Learn more about Melissa, and see her work:
www.melissarobinphoto.com
