2024-04-11 17:54
All the Fun, All the Style
Looking to plunge into senior year with style? That’s exactly what Josh did, and oh boy, did we capture it all!
Imagine your senior year, not just as a… Read More
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Magical Memories By Michelle Blog
magicalmemoriesbymichelle.com
Magical Memories by Michelle provides the highest level of luxury senior pictures, photography, and products for teens and high school seniors! Teen years are so special and often overlooked when it comes to professional portraits, so I do my best to help families remember these awesome teen years, including teen sports, Sweet 16, senior pictures, and graduation! Portrait sessions take place in many outdoor locations in the East Valley, including desert, waterfalls, lakes, and urban areas. Magical Memories by Michelle is the best senior photographer in Phoenix and offers multiple outfits and locations so that you'll have lots of variety, creativity, and personality in an amazing gallery filled with unique, beautiful senior pictures.
2024-03-28 01:58
Professional Portrait Photographer for Teens
Let’s talk about the forgotten years. You know you have thousands of pictures of your firstborn as a young child, but what happens as th… Read More
2024-03-18 22:19
What To Wear For Senior Pictures
I know you have a ton of outfits in your closet, but which ones are the best for senior pictures? I’ve been a professional photographer for nearly 1… Read More
2024-03-09 16:06
Music, Disco Balls, Cars and all the Creative Vibes
So, senior year is kind of a big deal, right? And what better way to capture all those memories and milestones than with some killer se… Read More
2024-02-16 18:44
Cost vs Value of Professional Photographer
This is one of the first questions most people ask, but it shouldn’t dictate your decision, and I’ll tell you why. Of course your pe… Read More
2024-02-13 02:17
Mom’s Favorite Product
Heirloom albums are more than just collections of photographs; they offer a heartwarming way to hold your teen close, even after they leave the nest. The lay… Read More
2024-02-12 20:08
Graduation portraits aren’t just photographs; they’re timeless reminders of achievement, hard work, and a bright future. At Magical Memories by Michelle, professional graduation… Read More
2024-02-08 20:30
It’s no secret, hair is a huge part of a teen’s identity, but keeping it soft free from damage isn’t always an easy task. Everyone’s hair is different, so there&rsquo&hell…Read More
2024-02-08 19:16
Just as a well-composed photograph requires a discerning eye, so too does effective budgeting. By having a vision for your portraits we can create a collection of images that capture the spi… Read More
2024-02-01 18:41
Let me guess. You’ve had professional portraits taken but now have no idea to to use them to display them in your home. That’s a very common problem for many families. Whether i… Read More
2024-01-30 19:39
Makeup Do’s and Don’ts for Senior Photos
From junior prom to getting your senior photos taken, these are all milestones in your high school life that will stick with you for y… Read More
2024-01-24 01:55
Social Media and Mental Well-being
So, we know social media is great for building communities and expressing ourselves through art. But, there’s a flip side. Studies suggest that sp… Read More
2023-12-12 19:37
Vintage Record Shop Adventure
Not every high school senior is excited about senior pictures, and that includes some girls too. Kiana had a less-than-thrilling experience for her Sweet 16… Read More
2023-12-08 17:01
Best Christmas Light Displays in the East Valley
It’s definitely the happiest time of year in our home!!! Chri… Read More
2023-11-29 22:18
Capturing Senior Pictures Every Guy Will Love (Mom Too!)
The trick to creating a senior portrait session for guys, is to include things they love. Their clothes, their car, their shoes, a… Read More
2023-11-09 23:49
Desert Backdrop
Many seniors want to include the breathtaking beauty of the Arizona desert in their senior portrait session. It can provide a stunning backdrop that includes rugged be… Read More
2023-11-08 02:47
As a professional senior portrait photographer, it’s my privilege to help seniors freeze these moments in time, creating stunning images that both parents and teens love. One incredibl… Read More
2023-10-10 02:18
MMIW: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
One picture, just one powerful image. What is MMIW, you ask? Until I heard from Kate and her mom, Tara, I was unaware as well. Tara asked that… Read More
2023-10-08 18:54
Football, American Flags & Big Trucks
No one wants their senior portraits to look like everyone else’s! You’ve worked hard all this time to get through school and excel at… Read More
2023-10-01 19:27
Beautiful Fall Fashion Trends for 2023
Fall is a season of warm colors, cozy layers, and pumpkin spice lattes. It’s also the perfect time to capture your unique style in Pinterest-w… Read More
2023-09-24 17:37
Heading to the pool without some planning can be a recipe for disaster. Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, so here are a few things to remember for your next poolside vacation in Arizona… Read More
2023-09-22 21:02
ASU College of Nursing Graduation
For Sydney, a recent graduate from the ASU College of Nursing, this milestone signifies the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her life. To celebrat… Read More
2023-09-20 16:45
Best Friends Senior Pictures
You’ve been through everything together, late nights studying, stressful classes, boyfriends, summer vacations, and more. Your BFF is there for it and y… Read More
2023-09-11 00:28
Arizona Portrait Photography at Night
Shooting with additional lighting (photographers call it “off camera flash” or OCF) allows me to pull in some of the city lights, or shoo… Read More
2023-09-11 00:27
Road Trip!
From 2009 until now, my photography career has been a bit like a crazy road trip with your bestie. Picture a winding road with a few roller coaster hills, wind in my hair (lite… Read More
2023-09-10 23:27
You’ve already heard a lot of talk about your big day, the spotlight, the hair, the outfits, and all the glam that goes along with senior pictures. It’s a lot of pressure—f… Read More
2023-09-05 07:30
Center Stage: A Musician, a Dancer, & The Senior Pictures of Her Dreams
When a client comes in for a consultation and already knows they want the ULTIMATE senior portrait session, I i… Read More
2023-09-04 19:51
Groovy Senior Portraits: Rockin’ Memories at Gilbert Record Store
Vinyl is all the rage these days, so after months of talking to Marissa, a music lover, and trying to find fun l… Read More
2023-08-09 00:36
Introducing Spencer – Artist and Nature-loving extraordinaire
First of all, there’s something so timelessly beautiful about capturing someone playing the violin. The effortles… Read More
2023-07-23 21:11
Senior Session Adventures
In a world brimming with endless possibilities, it is never easy picking out what you want. Harder still, is deciding which ideas best fit Keep’s personali… Read More
2023-07-14 23:29
6 Amazing Outfits for Summer Senior Pictures
Senior year is a time filled with unforgettable memories and cherished milestones Among the many highlights is the senior photoshoot, a time t… Read More
2023-07-09 09:05
The Truth About Year Book Photos: School Contracted Photographers
It’s time to say what’s usually left unsaid: The photography industry isn’t a strictly regulated indust… Read More
2023-07-07 05:27
What extra things and props are best for your senior photo shoot? Well, that depends on you, but I have lots of ideas to guide you if you get stuck. When I say props, I’m talking about… Read More
2023-06-30 18:00
Teen Style, Mom Strong: Meet Natalie
Clients and friends who know me already know my passion is working with teens and helping their confidence shine. I was on cloud nine when Natalie wal… Read More
2023-06-30 16:41
Senior Pictures at Desert Ridge High School
This high school athlete from Desert Ridge High School is such an incredibly motivated teenager and was so excited for his senior pictures! He… Read More
2023-06-30 11:04
Anyone who knows me knows I am incredibly picky about my nails. While I don’t personally do acrylic nails, I have used gel polish for years. I have been to many salons in the East Vall… Read More
2023-06-30 05:17
Surviving the Arizona Sun
Do you ever wonder why the sun-drenched beaches of Hawaii, the Caribbean, and other tropical locales are so popular for vacation? The answer is simple: beachgoer… Read More
2023-06-29 15:47
It’s Never Too Early to Book Your Photo Session
The Early Bird Gets the Best Time Slot
When is your graduation date? 2024? 2025 or later? It may seem like you have ALL the TIME i… Read More
2023-06-29 09:01
Insider Secrets & Advice from Leading Mesa, AZ, Photographer
There are so many things to consider when it comes to your senior pictures that it can be overwhelming if we don’t b… Read More
2023-06-23 04:29
Plan the Perfect Senior Session to Celebrate Your High School Years
If you’ve ever been blown away by someone’s personality, then you know exactly how I felt when BreeAuna wal… Read More
2023-06-22 12:25
Patriotism, Pom-Poms & Picture-Perfect Moments: Yes, you CAN have it all!
I can’t begin to tell you how excited I was when the day of Ashley’s senior portrait session roll… Read More
2023-06-20 22:39
Get Senior Portraits Before Graduation
When graduation time comes around, there’s a lot for parents to think about; thingslike grad parties, figuring out gifts, or any combination a… Read More
2023-05-30 17:17
Mesa, AZ Seniors Selected for National Magazine Publications
When it’s time for a senior photo session, I put every ounce of creativity, professional know-how, and attention to deta… Read More
2023-05-08 03:49
Florence High School Senior Pictures
Lately I’ve been getting a lot of clients that find me on Google. I also get a lot of word of mouth. Combine them, and I get Rylee! Rylee and he… Read More
2023-05-07 03:10
You’ve worked hard…and you’ve played just as hard! So why not make athletic photos part of your senior portrait package? It’s a great way to show off a sport you&rsq&hell…Read More
2023-04-26 06:12
High School Senior Pictures
Meet Caleigh, a Class of 2023 graduate from Seton Catholic Prep in Chandler, Arizona. Caleigh came to me through a referral by her cousins, the Thompson Triple… Read More
2023-04-19 07:00
Dear Mom & Dad: A Guide to Senior Portraits for Parents
For most parents, senior portraits are a distant memory. Two or three decades ago, we may have had the chance to change into a… Read More
2023-04-17 05:50
Goals & Glam: Future-Focused Graduation Photos
I was super-excited to meet Natalie and talk about her senior pictures and all the ideas she had for her portrait package—for a co… Read More
2023-04-15 19:36
Guest Blogger: Myrtle Bautista
Myrtle is a journalism major, a social media marketer and is now exploring freelance writing. She’s fond of anything related to health and wellness… Read More
2023-04-10 04:52
Smiles for Miles: Unique Photo Ideas for Outgoing Clients
A graduate from Casteel High School in Queen Creek, Arizona, Bryn has plenty of memories to keepsake—all while she’s… Read More
2023-04-09 12:57
Outfits, Accessories & Ideas for the BIG Event
How long have you been dreaming about going to prom? The dress you’ll wear, the hairstyle, the jewelry…all those little det… Read More
2023-04-02 11:45
Spotlight Style
But first, let’s start with Rylee, her fabulous fashion sense, and her natural photogenic nature. Seriously, I can’t write this without mentioning how gorgeous… Read More
2023-03-25 22:44
Best Locations for Photos from the Phoenix Metro Area to the East Valley
How can you put your favorites in order? It’s impossible! So, I’ll tell you right now that these are n… Read More
2023-03-23 22:21
Senior Picture Locations in Tempe, AZ
Madalynne wanted to find the perfect blend between a desert and water theme for her photoshoot, bringing us to Tempe Town Lake, for the first time in… Read More
2023-02-14 05:21
Skateboard Grind to Evening Glam: Capture Every Side of Your Personality
Wanna know the beauty of what makes us all unique individuals? Nobody has just one thing that defines them! Meet J… Read More
2023-02-11 04:34
Up for Adventure: Captivating Senior Photos That Reflect the True You
While I am located in East Mesa, I have clients come from all over the Phoenix area, including Bryan, who recently gr… Read More
2023-02-10 11:58
Props & Accessories Galore…Creative Graduation Photos to Enjoy & Share
When you know, you know. At least that’s what Amber’s mom told me when they moved to Okla… Read More
2023-02-09 05:45
Beautiful Locations & Artistic Ideas for Senior Pictures
Want to know how many AMAZING shots we can capture in a shorter photo session? It doesn’t take long to get tons of fabul… Read More
2023-02-09 02:58
A Mustang, A Parking Garage, and a Senior Guy
Downtown Mesa has long been a favorite spot for senior pictures! Historic downtown Mesa offers every look you can imaging – dramatic, e… Read More
2023-02-08 13:36
Award Winning Senior Pictures
Many of you have been to my office and seen my stack of magazines where many seniors just like you have been published! Each issue showcases the best-of-the… Read More
2023-02-04 20:28
Keepsake Portraits Highlight Your Mega Moments
I love seeing repeat clients for so many reasons! One of the biggest ones is that it’s so much fun to see how much they’ve grown… Read More
2023-02-01 02:58
Senior Picture Published in Senior Year Magazine
It’s not every day you take a picture that you feel could fight off 464,000 images. That’s exactly how many pictures that Seni… Read More
2023-01-31 11:43
Showstopping Ideas for Performing Arts Portraits
I’ve said it before—and you’ll hear me say it again: Your interests and passions are a super important part of your seni… Read More
2023-01-24 17:27
Don’t Wait to Celebrate…Create Milestone Memories You’ll Cherish
Every family looks forward to high school graduation and all the fun that comes with senior year. But y… Read More
2023-01-21 04:55
All Smiles for Graduation Photos
When Jordan visited me for her initial senior picture consultation, she had some great ideas in mind and ended up selecting a Quick Take session for her g… Read More
2023-01-18 09:14
So You Want Senior Pics With Your Pooch?
On the scale of zero to adorable, there’s not much that can top cute pictures of your pet—unless, of course, it’s cute pictures… Read More
2023-01-17 19:40
Creative Outdoor Ideas for Guys: Including Some With the Siblings!
With clients like this, my job never gets old! When I first met Wyatt with his family, I could tell he would be energeti… Read More
2023-01-17 10:41
Getting Senior Guys to Give Up the Smiles
How do I know when a photo shoot is successful? When nerves turn to smiles…and even (gasp!) laughter!
You might be surprised to read th… Read More
2023-01-17 10:35
Triple Vision: Graduation Photos for Siblings in Mesa, Arizona
If I thought senior picture photography was fun before, the Thompson triplets from Gilbert, AZ, just made my job THREE times… Read More
2023-01-17 10:28
Williams Field High School Senior Pictures
Have you ever met someone who’s all personality? No fluff, no falseness – just 100% themselves? Over 10 years of photography, I&rsqu&hell…Read More
2023-01-13 11:46
Stress-LESS Senior Portraits in Mesa, Arizona
As a senior portrait photographer, I’m constantly tuned in to the location station! Whether I’m out running errands or hanging ou… Read More
2023-01-12 03:16
Ideas for Outdoor Senior Pictures
If you haven’t noticed, Arizona has some beautiful locations for senior pictures in the East Valley. One of my Class of 2020 graduates is Marissa f… Read More
2023-01-11 04:29
In a Hurry? Need Affordable Senior Pictures? Quick Take Sessions Are Speedy, Fun, & Flexible
Some clients contact me, and they already have a pretty good idea about what they want for… Read More
2023-01-06 06:00
Desert Ridge High School Senior Pictures
Fun was the order of the day with Savannah. I honestly think my face was sore the next day from smiling so much! Endless laughs aside, Savannah ha… Read More
2022-12-29 09:50
Professional Portraits Make Your Senior Pictures Shine
How many photos do you have saved on your iPhone? If you’re like me, you probably have HUNDREDS of pictures of friends, family… Read More
2022-12-16 22:23
Senior Portrait Trends in Mesa, Arizona
It all started with a hat. But it wasn’t just any hat. It was floppy with a wide brim, and it looked fabulous on everyone! As it turned out… Read More
2022-12-09 14:16
How to Get Senior Pictures You Love
Your senior pictures say a whole lot about you, so it’s important to get them right! I’ve been working with graduating seniors for years, a… Read More
2022-11-16 14:25
Natural, True-to-You Portraits in Arizona’s East Valley
Imagine if you will, a senior guy who isn’t thrilled about an entire photo session that puts him in the spotlight. (I k… Read More
2022-11-03 16:39
Fun & Creative Ways to Include Your Fave Hobbies in Your Photo Session
How do you know it’s going to be a crazy-fun photo session? When you work with a senior guy who has tons o… Read More
2022-10-27 08:41
From Average to Awesome: Beautiful East Valley Locations That Will Make Your Senior Pictures Stand Out
If you’re looking for an East Valley Photographer and are graduating in 2023 (… Read More
2022-10-26 16:55
Dreaming Out Loud…In Vibrant Color & Elegant Style
It didn’t take long to realize Rae’s professional senior portraits would end up turning into TWO photo shoots, an… Read More
2022-10-26 05:25
Creative & Eye-Catching Senior Pictures for Girls
Just when I think I’ve met every kind of client and photographed everything under the sun, along comes someone like Julia! A 20… Read More
2022-10-25 18:42
Positive Parenting: Finding the Good in Teenagers
On occasion I’ll be paging through poems or quotes and come across something really meaningful. If you know me, you know photograph… Read More
2022-10-24 10:20
Build Confidence & Create Memories: Fun Ideas for Teen Photo Shoots
Everyone knows time goes by too fast…especially if you’re a parent watching your little tike toddle in… Read More
2022-10-23 09:24
What To Wear For Senior Pictures
What is a Style Closet anyways? How do I choose clothing for my senior pictures? What should I buy for senior pictures? How do I choose locations that loo… Read More
2022-10-22 09:54
Goal: Always Building Confidence For Teens
Part of being a professional photographer is providing amazing images to my clients, but even more important is the confidence boost I want ever… Read More
2022-10-19 12:00
Old Town Scottsdale Senior Pictures
Scottsdale is an absolute utopia for photographers. What are we meant to do with all of that sun, scenery, and beauty? Well, capture it, of course! So… Read More
2022-10-19 10:32
Something Different for Senior Pictures
If you’re like nearly ALL high school seniors getting ready for senior pictures, you’ve spent a lot of time thinking about fun location… Read More
2022-10-19 06:47
Stunning Graduation Photo Ideas: Pose with Your Musical Instrument
Think graduation photos have to take all day—and all night? Think again!
You don’t have to be a photo sho… Read More
2022-10-18 11:55
Unique Locations for Senior Pictures
What’s the most asked question when it comes to senior portraits? The answer: What locations are best? Well, it turns out that often the best lo… Read More
2022-10-18 09:30
Professional Senior Pictures at 50’s Diner
As soon as I met Rae and her family, I knew her photo shoot would end up being a standout! Rae breezed into my office all smiles and energ… Read More
2022-10-18 09:30
Professional Senior Pictures at 50’s Diner
As soon as I met Rae and her family, I knew her photo shoot would end up being a standout! Rae breezed into my office all smiles and energ… Read More
2022-10-17 16:13
Fun Ways to Amp Up Your Senior Pictures & Show Off Your Personality
It’s so much fun when a client tells me they have lots of different hobbies and interests. I immediately star… Read More
2022-10-15 19:08
How to Plan the Right Senior Photo Session for You
Most visitors to my site will see a LOT of day-to-night and longer-length photo sessions, but what you may be wondering is whether there… Read More
2022-10-15 08:48
Makeup Trends for Teens: The Perfect Face for Senior Pictures
Makeup trends constantly change to make way for new ideas and new products. Cosmetics play an important role in your overall… Read More
2022-10-12 10:30
Think Outside the Box for Unique Graduation Photos in Mesa, AZ
One of the best things that can happen to a professional photographer is to have an ultra-talented and well-rounded client w… Read More
2022-10-10 06:53
It’s Always Sunny in Arizona: Grab Your Shades
There are tons of ideas out there for your senior pictures, so there’s no reason you shouldn’t have the photo shoot of you… Read More
2022-10-09 10:46
Chandler Senior Pictures for Guys
Does your guy love the idea of senior pictures? Or is he a little hesitant? Or is he doing it just for mom? I’ve worked with senior guys that are a… Read More
2022-10-08 11:36
Candid Shots & Carefree Moments: Capturing in-the-Moment Magic
Being a teenager isn’t easy, especially today. There’s pressure from just about every angle to look good and… Read More
2022-10-06 16:30
No Worries, Just Wonderful Photos: Select a Pro for Senior Pics That Wow
There are thousands of photographers out there, so how do you know which one is the best for your senior pictures?… Read More
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