About ME

As a professional photographer who is paid for my time, I make every effort to make that a valuable investment and maximize the time we have. For families with children, I schedule around the child's napping and eating schedule. I excel getting the perfect shot. My relaxed demeanor puts people who are normally nervous in front of the camera at ease. My mentality towards my sessions is that they are a collaboration with you to get the best possible pictures of you and your family. You are welcome to review each shot and ask to delete anything, no questions asked. I want you to be happy with your images.

My Story

When I am asked about my background, I tell people that I am Aruba-Rican because I was born in Puerto Rico by my Aruban mother. A year later my family moved to Canada, then four years later we moved to Evans Georgia where I grew up. From an early age, I got involved with many Performing Arts and Visual Arts activities. My passion for photography began in the darkroom of my high school photography class. 

After receiving my bachelor's in Theatre Performance from Kennesaw State University (with a minor in Photography), I grabbed my camera and began to travel the world.  So far, I've visited 11 countries.  In 2005, I made a trip around the globe by flying from London to Shanghai to L.A. to Atlanta and back to London to study for my master's in Arts Management at Goldsmiths, University of London.  

Since my days as a student at Kennesaw, I have worked as a professional graphic designer and photographer on location and in the studio. I've worked for Polaris Photo, Kalidascope Pictures, and The Picture People retail studios. Since 2001, I've operated on a freelance basis under the name Melanie Avita Photography. I've also served as an instructor of photography for the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art and an instructor of photography and graphic design at the Jessye Norman School of the Arts. 

Today, I work at the Parker College of Business of Georgia Southern University in the Office of Marketing & Media as the Media Designer. When not taking pictures, Melanie enjoys singing and playing the ukulele.