Biography of Mel Russell
SEDONA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

 

My initial introduction to photography came in 1986, when I bought my oldest son a camera for his 13th birthday.  He wanted me to teach him how to use it, so I enrolled in Photography 101 at a local Scottsdale college.  From the first class, I was hooked.

     After completing every class offered by the college, as well as independent study, I had the opportunity to make friends with fashion photographer/teacher Frank Simon.  Halfway through his class, I took my portfolio to a local model/talent agency, and was hired to photograph models.  Frank allowed me the opportunity to use his studio, and my photography career was born.  I have won several awards for my photography over the years, and have been published in many local and regional magazines for my work with Sedona businesses.
     My main focus has always been media and people.  From the time I moved to Sedona in 1987, I have been in commercial photography, continuing to work with models, business professionals, and several close friends for portraits and other special moments.

     I have been an active wedding photographer for the last 2 years, with the majority of my work being focused on this special day.  I strive to take my experience and use it to create the most memorable, unique record possible, tailored to each bride and groom specifically.  I have even catered to special requests for photos taken either prior to or in the days following the actual ceremony around Sedona, to capture a more relaxed, intimate portrait of the couple.  This is your special day, and these are the cherished images that will remain with you, handed down over the generations.



 Official “Sedona Jazz on the Rocks” photographer for 4 years 1995-1998.
 


Since then covered the event for Red Rock Review.
Other media and commercial work for 5 years after that.                           
Staff member for the Sedona Cultural Park for 2  years, from 2003-2004 , photographing their concerts and events. Willie Nelson, Vince Gil, Norah Jones, LeAnn Rimes, Gordon Lightfoot, Lynyrd  Skynyard, Jerry Jeff Walker, String Chasse, Hootie and the Blowfish. 
On the staff of the Red Rock Review as an event/sports photographer.

 

 Memberships:

·        Sedona Wedding Professionals Association

·        Sedona Chamber of Commerce

·        Wedding and Portrait Photographers International

·        National Association of Photoshop Professionals

·        Professional Photographer’s of America

·        Arizona Professional Photographer’s Association

·        Rocky Mountain Professional Photographer’s Association

 

 

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