Galleries
I specialize in Newborn, Family, and portrait photography
Newborn photography captures a baby's first quiet moments with soft, timeless images families keep. Using natural light, gentle poses, and simple props, the photographer focuses on tiny details—wrinkled hands, rosebud lips, sleepy yawns—while keeping safety and comfort first. These photos aren’t just pictures; they’re keepsakes that hold the warmth and wonder of those first days and the start of a family’s story.
Maternity is a quiet, glowing change. It blends strength and vulnerability, making small moments—curves, gentle hands, shared looks—feel meaningful. It honors the body’s resilience, the emotional shifts, and the growing bond between parent and child. Through portraits, clothing, or simple care, maternity is shown in light, touch, and presence—an invitation to slow down, enjoy the change, and remember this brief, powerful time.
Portrait photography shows personality, mood, and small stories in expression and posture. Good lighting, composition, and a strong connection between photographer and subject turn moments into honest, timeless images. Whether environmental, studio, or lifestyle, a great portrait mixes technical skill with emotional connection and creates photos people keep returning to.
Family Photography
Family photography captures the connections, personalities, and stories that make your family unique. Whether you want relaxed lifestyle portraits at home, a playful outdoor session, or a polished studio portrait, a thoughtful approach ensures images you’ll cherish for years.
What to expect
Consultation: We’ll discuss your vision, preferred locations, wardrobe, and any special moments you want to prioritize.
Session styles: Lifestyle (candid, at-home), Outdoor (natural light, parks, urban settings), Studio (controlled lighting, formal portraits), Milestone (birthdays, anniversaries).
Timeline: Sessions typically last 45–90 minutes depending on size of family and chosen style. Newborns and very young children may require more time.
Image delivery: Professionally edited high-resolution files and a web gallery for sharing. Print and album options available.
Planning tips
Clothing: Coordinate colors and textures rather than match exactly. Choose a simple palette of 2–4 complementary colors. Avoid large logos or busy patterns that distract from faces.
Location: Pick a place that reflects your family’s personality—your home, favorite park, or a meaningful urban spot. Consider timing for the best light (golden hour for outdoor sessions).
Kids: Schedule sessions when children are well-rested and fed. Bring snacks, a favorite toy, and patience. Plan for short breaks and keep activities light and fun.
Pets: Pets are welcome. Bring treats, a leash, and someone to help wrangle them if needed.
What to wear — simple guide
Adults: Solid colors, layered pieces, and subtle textures work best. Avoid neon or overly bright shades.
Kids: Comfortable clothing that allows movement. Consider one slightly dressier outfit and one casual option.
Babies/newborns: Neutral wraps and simple outfits. Soft blankets and minimal props keep the focus on the baby.
Session day checklist
Outfits ironed and ready
Snacks and water
Favorite toy or comfort item for children
Extra layers for changing weather
Hairbrush, small touch-up items
Deliverables and pricing (example)
Mini session: 30 minutes, up to 6 people, 10 edited digital images.
Standard session: 60 minutes, immediate family, 25 edited digital images.
Extended/family + pets or multiple locations: 90 minutes, up to 8 people, 40 edited digital images.
Prints, canvases, and albums available a la carte.
Tips for great images
Focus on interactions—play, hugs, whispered jokes—rather than stiff poses.
Use movement: walking, tickling, dancing—helps capture natural expressions.
Let kids lead sometimes: candid moments often become the best memories.
Booking and contact
Book early for popular times (holidays, fall, spring).
A deposit secures your date; remaining balance due before delivery of digital files.
Sessions reschedule for severe weather or illness.
Preserve your family story with images that feel honest and timeless. If you’d like, I can help you plan outfits, choose a location, or provide a sample session timeline tailored to your family.
Milestone photography captures the meaningful moments that mark growth, change, and achievement—first smiles, turning one, first steps, graduations, anniversaries, and every milestone in between. Thoughtfully styled and gently guided, these sessions focus on genuine connection and tiny details that tell your story: the way a hand curls around a parent’s finger, the sparkle in a graduate’s eyes, the quiet joy of a newborn settling in. The result is a timeless collection of images you’ll revisit for years—images that preserve emotion, reflect personality, and celebrate the journey. Perfect for keepsakes, announcements, and heirloom prints, milestone photography turns fleeting moments into lasting memories.
About me
Hello, my name is Michelle Vanlieshout, I live in a quaint town near the city of Green Bay, Wisconsin. I feel your experience needs to be intimate and unforgettable.
I was taught at an early age the importance of capturing memories. Through the birth of my son I realized this family tradition of photography was my true passion. Along with my degree in Graphic Design, and my vast experience in photography, the possibilities for every venture are endless.
My favorite part of this journey are the intimate relationships I have developed with my clients. I am lucky to have been there from maternity, birthing, infancy to toddler years. I have been there to share the bloom of loving relationships to the eternity of marriage.
With wanderlust running through my veins and my enthusiastic drive for uniqueness, my work is guaranteed to be organic.
“Michelle was such a pleasure to work with! She has a great artistic eye, and so many wonderful ideas! She also listens and incorporates your style into what she does! Very patient, kind, and great with kids! I would recommend her to everyone and anyone who doesn’t want anything “cookie cutter”. Seriously ORIGINAL. Can’t wait to book all future photo shoots with her! ”
“Michelle has been photographing my family for the last 4 years. The experience from start to finish has always been amazing! I cannot even explain how amazing the photographs are. She never disappoints!”
“Michelle is amazing to work with, she is very professional yet puts you and your whole family at ease with her upbeat personality! Extremely patient with newborns and able to capture the most amazing moments!! Love her...we have found a photographer for life!!”