Melissa Stewardson Photography, Placentia, CA

It’s been a while since I have blogged about my studio so I wanted to do an update. It’s changed a bit since I first started using it more than 2 years ago. What started out as a dream, turned into my cozy space which now I couldn’t live without!

It’s small, but mighty! It’s right around 250 sq ft. but since I built it from the ground up I am able to utilize every inch of the space.

So take a look around and message me (MelissaStewardson@gmail.com) if you have any questions!

Been loving my new boho swing! It’s perfect for mommy and me, individual children and sibling shots!

This is one of my favorite corners of the studio. I hang all my wraps from simple drapery rod. And I love my cute little newborn and sitter clothes rack which my dad made for me. The tie dyed rug is from Home Goods and the pouf was ordered on Amazon. 


I love adding a personal touch to each session by personalizing my chalk board for each client. And I always have my snack basket loaded up for the kiddos and parents. 
A coffee station is also a must! Since I am an all natural light photographer, I shoot all my studio sessions in the mornings when the light is best. I usually start between 9am-11am. But really, coffee is good at any time, am I right?!
My wood backdrops are some of my most requested! I have this awesome 2-sided platform that folds and rolls for storage. One side is reclaimed wood and the other is painted white reclaimed wood. It’s super versatile for kids and families. 
My prop closet is stuffed to the gills! I dip into this puppy every session, whether it’s a newborn, baby or kiddo. It has everything I need to make each session unique. The combinations of props, blankets and stuffers makes for endless possibilities for set ups. And how cute is my sign?! My talented sister owns Driftwood Studios 2015 and created this handmade sign for me. It fit perfectly in this spot! 

I love my quaint client seating area. I got the cute love seat from World Market and the camera pillow covers from Amazon. I have this stocked with some fun magazines as well as toys for the kids. The first thing I do before any 6 month and older session is play with the child. Building a little rapport before shooting is so important. I get to know the child and they get to relax and get to know me as well. 5 minutes of play can go a long way in terms of a smooth session. 
Having my savage paper rolls hung on the walls was a must. For one it saves a lot of space. Secondly, it’s so fast and easy to just roll it down and then back up when I am finished shooting. No more setting up my stand anymore! 

Since I have a small space it’s imperative to use the walls for storage. Hanging my headbands and bonnets not only looks pretty, it’s also functional. And who doesn’t love Organic Bloom frames. Those are my 2 precious daughters smiling at you. 🙂