photo by Emma Hileman

About Melissa

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Through the lens I explore the essence of place and of experience. Across the subjects of art, food, interiors and nature, my images convey an appreciation of being there, of experiencing the elements of place in a tangible way, and of celebrating those who have the courage to live fully within their passions. Moving between these arenas has allowed me to dig in to the true spirit of place, and inspired me to make authentic connections with the people I meet through assignment or happenstance.

As an avid backpacker and Licensed Outdoor Guide, I also love introducing others to the restorative power of the wilderness. I’m the founder of Girl Gotta Hike, an outdoor adventure company that connects women and small groups with nature, confidence and camaraderie online, over the air, and on the ground through blog posts, podcasts, and via guided hikes and backpacking trips from NYC to the Catskills and beyond.

A proud Brooklynite for over 20 years, I now I split my time between big city living and teeny-tiny-town life up in the Catskill Mountains, alongside my amazing husband and adoring cat.

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Clients Include

National Geographic

Modern Huntsman

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Travelzoo

Down East

The Maine Sportsman

Lonely Planet

Observer Media

Pace Gallery

David Kordansky Gallery

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Artspace

Sotheby’s

Bard Graduate Center

Virginia Commonwealth University

Food 52

Wine Spectator

Wines of Chile

Vogue

Zoku