Photography & Design By Michelle

05/27/2026

There’s something incredibly meaningful about sitting down to write a heartfelt thank you card to someone who chose to support your art. 💌📸

This note is going out to a customer who recently purchased one of my original photography note card sets. Every photograph in these collections represents a real moment I stopped to notice beauty, light, peace, and connection in the world around me. To know those moments now live in someone else’s home — and may become part of someone else’s meaningful message someday as— is something I never take for granted.

In a time where so much communication disappears with a swipe, handwritten notes still hold emotion, intention, and permanence. That’s why these cards are so special to me. They’re more than stationery — they’re pieces of art created to help people slow down, connect, and make someone feel remembered. They are original prince of photography that you can frame or the person can frame after receiving.

To everyone who supports my photography and small creative business: thank you for helping my work become part of life’s meaningful moments. It truly means more than words can say. 🌿✨

And for those who have asked about the note card sets, they are always available through my photography page for anyone wanting to share a little beauty and heartfelt connection the timeless way: https://form.jotform.com/251688414766166?fbclid=IwZnRzaAR59A1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEetsc0pp7JL2DBG_dy7KKPS-NDGgv7GEcDHwzt6DBcFx-4RA4B-MAq0eB-jVc_aem_-Ndii8lA8GCRHIMocU11xQ&utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e231_tv4_tp1_a1demo09vj5lis

05/20/2026

There is no greater honor as a photographer than seeing my work hanging on someone’s wall. A photograph begins as a moment I felt deeply — a piece of light, emotion, or truth that stopped me long enough to capture it for others. But when someone chooses to place that moment in their home, it becomes part of their world too. It’s no longer just my story; it becomes a shared one, a daily one.

What made this experience even more meaningful was being asked for my input on how to display the pieces — by honoring the photographs themselves. We talked about how each image interacts with the room’s natural light, how it shifts from daylight to nighttime, and how the mood of each piece changes with the space around it. That kind of trust is rare. It’s someone saying, “Your eye doesn’t end at the camera. I want your vision in how this lives in my home.”

Art on a wall is more than decoration. It’s connection. It’s someone inviting your way of seeing the world into their everyday life. Every time my photography finds a home, I’m reminded why I create — to inspire and capture beauty, emotion, and truth in a way that can live beyond me. And moments like this remind me that my perspective matters, not just in the instant I press the shutter, but in the way the image continues to breathe in someone else’s space. Thank you to my beautiful clients and customers, I will always put every detail of care into creating for you. If you want any captures to live in your home? You can order here. I have a 40% off sale going on right now so take 40% off of any framed in that pieces from the original price . I ship anywhere in the US. Link to order in the comments! 🌸

05/04/2026

In honor of National Bird Day 🐦✨

A day to celebrate birds and the important role they play—helping control pests, pollinate plants, spread seeds, and keep our ecosystems in balance.

Seeing them from *both sides of the lens* feels especially meaningful. From peaceful moments in local parks to the up-close surprises from my smart bird feeder cam, it’s amazing how much personality they have when you slow down and watch.

Some shots were planned… others were little visitors showing up right outside my window like they knew they had an audience.

A reminder that nature meets us wherever we are 🤍

Sharing a few favorites I shot for you at Algonquin Park in Sterling Virginia + some feeder footage here to celebrate these beautiful little beings. Check out my feathered visitors surprise I’m sharing in the link and comment, for another way to see these beautiful creatures from another lens from my home to yours!

What is your favorite bird you saw my pictures or video or just your favorite to see out in the wild? 🐧🐦🦅🐦‍⬛

02/26/2026

🌸 Cherry Blossom Portrait Experience — Now Booking!!

This spring, Photography by Michelle is offering a limited collection of cherry blossom portrait sessions at a private, off-the-beaten-path location— intentionally selected to avoid the Tidal Basin crowds, parking challenges, and distractions for my clients!

The same breathtaking blooms! The location has the other trees that were gifted from Japan just like on the tile basin that were gifted from Japan same as the tidal basin but A far more serene and refined experience.

Whether you’re documenting your growing family, celebrating your relationship, or including a beloved pet, these sessions are designed to create timeless, artful portraits you’ll treasure for years to come.

Soft natural light.
Unhurried time.
Thoughtfully composed imagery in an elegant setting.

Bloom season is fleeting, and availability is intentionally limited.

Inquire to reserve your beautiful spring portrait experience. Message to book!

Photography by Michelle

*Photo in my graphic taken at this special location

02/06/2026

WINTER FLASH SALE?

Title: Winter’s Whisper 🌬️ ❄️

Description:
Step into the serene beauty of Virginia’s countryside, where freshly fallen snow blankets the trees frame the road ahead and softens the world around you. This original, locally-shot photograph captures the quiet magic of a winter morning—the gentle hush of snow, the crisp, clean air, and the timeless stillness of nature. Perfectly framed (walnut wood) & matted, signed by the artist, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, Winter’s Whisper is a limited edition piece that brings the calm and elegance of winter into your home. Details of item on link and already has protective corners for safekeeping and transport.

WINTER FLASH SALE PRICE: $60
✨ Limited edition – once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Order here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=869719322254825&set=a.205820631978034&type=3 🖼️

12/27/2025

Happy Holidays ✨
Closing out the season with deep gratitude for every family, couple, and individual who trusted me to capture their memories this year.
As we move into the new year, I’m honored to continue preserving birthdays, celebrations, holidays, and life’s meaningful moments — big and small 📸🤍

Sincerely,
Michelle
photoanddesignbych.wixsite.com/bymichelle/home

11/29/2025

It's , thanks for shopping small! I would love be included in your holiday shopping! My products are all handmade and one of a kind! I love supporting small businesses as well so if you have one, feel free to share below!

Happy ! I am a small business that helps other's businesses grow and I am so very thankful for my clients!

On my Photography side of my business I also make my products and right now I have my two different sets of notecards, single cards, prints, framed prints and NOW CALENDARS, too! All crafted and designed with intention and quality. You can just message me on here to order! I also, always support small businesses, my favorite activity is going to craft and artisan fairs. Shopping small is the best way to shop and here are some reasons why:

Quality and Craftsmanship: Small businesses often prioritize quality over quantity, investing time and effort into creating products that are meticulously crafted and carefully inspected.

Unique and Personalized: Many small business products are one-of-a-kind or custom-made, offering unique options that you can't find in mass-produced items. You often have the opportunity to request personalized touches or bespoke designs.

Supporting Local Economy: Buying from small businesses helps to support local economies, creating jobs and contributing to the growth of your community.

Sustainability and Ethics: Small businesses are often more conscious of their environmental impact and ethical practices, using sustainable materials and production methods. They are more transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.

Customer Service: Small business owners are deeply invested in their products and customer satisfaction, often providing more attentive and personalized customer service. You can expect a more human touch in your interactions.

Innovation and Creativity: Without the constraints of large corporations, small businesses can be more innovative and creative, bringing fresh ideas and unique products to market.

Building Relationships: When you buy from a small business, you're often supporting a person or a family, building relationships, and becoming part of a community of loyal customers.

Supporting small businesses means you're not just getting a product; you're investing in quality, creativity, and the well-being of your community. It's a win-win for both you and the artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs who pour their heart and soul into their work.

Thanks to those who ! We create for you!

11/16/2025

Chasing the Northern Lights to share with you—where color, light, and wonder meet. All shot by iPhone, and a mixture of my hubby and I's captures! Just wanted to share the magic with you. I knew if I caught it, it wasn't going to be a strong storm like last year, so I did not bring all my heavy equipment, but I am so glad we caught it again! 🙂

©️ 2025 Photography & Design By Michelle Skyline Dr Outlook #2 facing North from front royal entrance

11/14/2025

Ember Lake

©️2025 Photography & Design By Michelle

Now availble in print & framed and matted print.

11/12/2025

🚨 Your local photographer’s got your back: GO OUTSIDE NOW!**
The sky’s *glowing* tonight — even with the light pollution! ✨

This quick snap was taken right here in **Sterling** on my phone’s iffy camera to show you the **Aurora is visible**!

Step outside, look **north**, and try to capture it — it shows up best on **night mode** or a long exposure. You might not see all the color with your eyes, but your camera will. 🌌💜

Enjoy the Northern Lights that are dancing over Northern Virginia RIGHT NOW — don’t miss it!
Post your view below — let’s light up Facebook together! 💫