Melissa Paul Melissa Paul

Here’s to a New Beginning

Leaving my high school teaching career of nearly 15 years.

Prior to March 1st of 2024 I was a dedicated dog mom and high school English teacher, and then my son turned my life upside down. It has been the most rewarding and difficult year and a half since, but I continue to stay grateful and present with him and know in my heart of hearts leaving my career in education was the best decision I could have ever made for his upbringing.

That isn’t to say that I don’t miss teaching and the feeling of accomplishment that my career and work in the field of English brought with it. I am simply learning to embrace a side of myself that does not ascribe to labels, that is looking to figure out exactly who that person is if she isn’t achieving in the traditional sense.

Prior to starting portrait photography, I exclusively took professional photos of the night sky, my dog, and my handmade goods from my very first business endeavor, Black Willow Apiary. I have learned so much since beginning summer of 2024 and am looking forward to not only growing as a business but as an artist capturing the essence and beauty of my subjects.

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