Melissa Bell Photography

07/24/2026

These back to school photo sessions are perfect for the beginning of the school year. Why spend $30+ on boring school photos when you can give your child a fun experience instead!? Dates available for Boone, IA AND Owatonna, MN! If these dates do not work, please message me!

You get your choice of 2 backdrops-an adorable bus or school hallway, plus the option of a traditional "yearbook" portrait!

10 minute session
$25 Sitting fee includes one digital image chosen by you
Additional digital images will be available for purchase after your gallery is sent, at $15/each or pre-pay for a discounted digital package during booking!

Grade signs (Pre-K through 12th Grade) will be provided, as well as props shown

You may bring personal items such as personalized school signs, backpacks, a favorite book or even their favorite toy!

This mini is good for up to 2 children. Group photos will also be taken. If you have more than 3 kids-message me prior to booking for recommendations!

**Your images will not be shared online without permission

Book Here: https://www.melissabellphoto.com/back-to-school/

07/23/2026

07/23/2026

Are you excited for back to school and ready to send your kids back? Or are you sad at how fast summer is going by?

For me-it’s a little of both! I’m ready to see Kora conquer the next year but have had so much fun making memories with her this summer!

Back to School sessions will be released very soon.
You spend $30+ on school portraits-why not take that and spend it on a fun experience for your kids!?

I’ll be offering two Back to School backdrops as well as simple school portraits with a gray background!

07/22/2026

Why book a professional photographer?

Because time doesn’t wait.
Children grow, milestones come and go, families change—and sometimes, photos become the last tangible piece we have of the people we love most. Photography allows you to hold onto those moments just a little longer.

Remember the quiet glow of your pregnancy. The joy (and chaos) of your baby’s first year. The excitement of your senior year. The pride behind your growing business.

Instead of worrying about getting the perfect shot, let someone else handle the details. I’ll take care of the planning, lighting, and posing—so you can be fully present, soaking in the moments that matter most.

Book the session. You will never regret having the photos.
I offer both indoor and outdoor sessions, along with access to a curated client closet to make styling effortless.

Limited availability remains for September-December. It's never too early to start planning for your 2027 photos! Servicing central Iowa & Southern Minnesota
• Families
• Seniors
• Milestones
• Newborns
• Marketing & Branding
• Maternity
• Events
• Sports-creative and team/individual portraits
• Weddings
• Couples

07/22/2026

Stetson | newborn

Your newborn baby is the greatest gift. Remember all of the teeny details with a newborn photo session!

07/21/2026

In the busy-ness of the summer I realized I never posted sweet Aaliyah! She came in for a few pictures to use in a photogenic competition. She is just the cutest!!!

07/16/2026

90's Portrait Experience

Please enjoy a few of my favorites from this day.

All galleries have been emailed with instructions!! These were seriously the BEST!! I am ALWAYS willing to do these as a full session at anytime during the year and do not be surprised if you see Awkward Christmas Photos as an option this year!!

07/14/2026

The Scoop the Loop : 90's Edition this past weekend was absolutely hilarious! I had the BEST time with everyone who came into my studio!!
Enjoy this guys-this is GOLD!!

07/14/2026

The Signature Seven
Seven exclusive memberships. One session every year—reserved for you, year after year. I have THREE left.

Did you know that on average, 15-27% of photography businesses don't make it past year 7?! I didn't until I just saw that statistic. This weekend marks year 7 since I officially took Melissa Bell Photography from a hobby to a business. I couldn't have done it without a lot of hard work, learning, wanting to quit more than once (Archie can attest to this!) but pushing through with the help and support of all of you!! Thank you for making this dream a reality!! I have been honored to capture so many memories in the last 7 years and can't wait to see what the future holds.

Now for the membership details-
For a one time fee of $1000, you will receive 60 minutes of photography time reserved for you—year after year. This time can be used for any session type. You will also receive 50% off of any additional session (full, gifted, or mini) as a signature seven member.

These are extremely limited and are good for Iowa or Minnesota clients. Message me for more details or to grab one of the limited spots!
**Fee may be split into 2-3 payments with the final payment due 12/31/26
**Not valid with any previous bookings
**Yearly session may be 2-30 min sessions or 1-60 min session

Message me for more details or to snag one of the last memberships!

07/12/2026

If you haven’t checked out the Boone Flex yet-what’s your reason? It is such a great facility. The workers and owners are so incredibly nice and the options they have for classes and child watch are awesome!
Free admission today!

FREE admission today from 12–4 PM! 🎉
Plus, Sydney’s youth class has moved to Sundays at 2 PM for the next few weeks—so today is the perfect chance to give it a try. It’s high-energy, fun, and a great way for kids to get moving!

Get out of the heat - come spend your Sunday with us!

Must check in at the front desk and complete a waiver when you arrive.