We recently connected with Melissa Koss and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Melissa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

The biggest risk I’ve ever taken was starting my photography business full time. I was actually about to enter dental hygiene school when I realized that wasn’t my true calling. I had spent so much time and effort preparing for that program, only to realize my heart wasn’t in it. After a lot of talks (and tears) with the people closest to me, I decided to take the leap and pursue photography full time. I was terrified I’d regret it, but here I am, more than eight years later, and it’s easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The biggest risk, but completely worth it.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Melissa, a wedding photographer based in Texas! Though I love when my work takes me to new places. I’ve been drawn to photography since I was a kid with a disposable camera, constantly trying to freeze little moments that felt important. It’s funny looking back, because that’s still exactly what I do now, just with better gear and a deeper appreciation for what those moments mean to people.

What I love most about weddings is getting to tell someone’s story in a way that actually feels like them. My goal isn’t to make the day look picture-perfect… it’s to capture how it felt. The laughter, the nerves, the chaos, the calm. I try to blend in and let things unfold naturally so the photos feel honest and true to who my couples are.

I think what sets me apart is how much I care about the experience itself. I’m not just showing up with a camera; I’m there to make sure my couples feel comfortable, cared for, and seen. A lot of people tell me they’re awkward in front of the camera, and I love proving them wrong, especially when I get that post-session comment from a groom like, “that wasn’t so bad.” Those moments make me smile every time.

What I’m most proud of is the trust my couples place in me and the relationships that often keep going long after the wedding. Hearing from past clients that their photos still make them tear up or that they actually enjoyed being photographed, that’s what reminds me I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to do.

At the heart of everything I do is my love for people, trust, and the storytelling. The photos matter, of course, but it’s really about the connection and how that matters more than perfection.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Absolutely! I wish I had realized sooner how much you can learn just by listening to other photographers. YouTube, online webinars, and creative communities have been such game changers for me. In the beginning, I tried to figure everything out on my own, but once I started learning from people who were already doing what I wanted to do, everything clicked faster. There’s so much value in hearing how others approach their craft, not to copy them, but to find your own rhythm through what you learn.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My biggest goal… To give my dogs the life they deserve. They’re basically my “why” in furry form. But in all seriousness, being able to do this full time and to actually make a living doing something I love is a huge part of that mission too. I feel really lucky that photography lets me create something meaningful for other people while also building a life that feels good on my end. My dogs remind me every day to slow down, stay grateful, and enjoy the little things, which, honestly, is the same mindset I bring into my work and the way I approach each wedding.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://melissakossphotography.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/melissakossphotography
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/melissakossphotography