Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa DiAntonio.
Melissa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have had a love and admiration for art since I was a child. I took any art course offered during high school, I loved to draw portraits. I loved all the detail work that went into designing a portrait. It wasn’t until I had my first child, that my father gifted me a digital camera. To me, that was a whole new world of art. I loved learning all the new techniques and took photos of everything…it annoyed everyone haha. And once I started into the world of photoshop…I was like a little kid in toys r us!
After 3 years of online classes and workshops, I started doing photos for friends…well it was more like I would say “Hey let’s meet up…and let me take your family photos” I was very fortunate to have so many amazing friends that would let me use them as models.
In 2014 I decided to take the big jump and start my own business. And it’s as everyone always says…the first year is definitely the hardest. I was knocked down many times, but that never stopped me from getting back up. I took every piece of criticism seriously and learned from it.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It was a bumpy start. But not one I regret. One thing I was surprised by was that I never once considered throwing in the towel. I had a husband who was extremely supportive and always making sure time was made for me to put into this business.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mark Rand Photography – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Mark Rand Photography is named after my sons…Mark is my oldest son and Rand is the middle name to my youngest. I wanted something to represent them but still sound professional. I specialize in children/Family portraiture, ages 6 months and up. I value myself as offering quality images at affordable rates. I also offer various holiday mini sessions through out the year as well as senior portrait sessions.
My most popular photo session would be the cake smash. I custom make all my cake smash sessions to fit a theme that most describes the child. I provide the cake (from a local bakery) and the cake smash outfit!
I was approached 5 months ago about doing a group cake smash for a baby group…8 children turning one. That was a fun experience that produced some memorable photos… and a big mess! Since then I have 4 more groups schedule a large group cake smash.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
For the future, I plan on expanding my cake smash sessions. Adding more wardrobe choices, themes, etc. As a mom I feel the cake smash session is the most important…it celebrates us, parents, just as much as the child. After months of sleepless nights, diaper changing, teething…we need to kick back and watch our kid throw cake around. See a pure joy…and confusion on your child’s face as you encourage them to eat an entire cake with their hands.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://markrandphotograph.wixsite.com/mark-rand/package-prices
- Phone: (781)608-4705
- Email: markrandphotography@yahoo.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markrandphotography/
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
