We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Greene and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I didn’t really question or think twice about “starting my own business.” I think it is in my DNA? Between my side of the family and my husband’s side, there is no shortage of entrepreneurs!
Born to be a creative soul, I find my peace standing behind my lens. What started out as a hobby in 2018, getting me through the long days in the law office or even longer days studying for my paralegal certificate, quickly turned into a pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming business opportunity. God provided me the clarity to remove unnecessary stressors, and gifted me the ability to serve others in a truly remarkable way. I am hired for more than just a moment to be documented. I pour my heart and soul into providing an unforgettable experience along the way — a photography experience which is grounded in peace, slowing down, and authentic connections.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It is my firm belief that we are on this planet with a purpose to create. Whether we spend our time creating art or creating life, we are just meant to be creating, which in turn is something beautiful, magical even.
I find happiness in highlighting sweeping landscapes and various textures, to really form a visual story of an experience. I am an artist drawn to the details in the little details, the handpicked elements in a milestone moment–aspects only present because they were intentionally chosen.
From a distance (and for a while), I admired the community of “visual storytellers”. While dreaming of documenting love stories in some fun, cinematic and romantic fashion, I got an email asking me (ME!) to capture an elopement on the beach. It was my pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming moment, and it was finally in front of me.
Just getting that first inquiry was my biggest hurdle. I was so nervous no one would like my style, no one would understand my creative vision. I created my own hurdles, over and over again. It is so clear though now, these are the exact reasons why I get hired again and again: my style and my creative vision.
Something I am more than proud of is working alongside my husband! I personally like to believe we are showing other couples “it’s okay to dream big.” We are a photo and video team who absolutely adore uniquely wild love stories. Stories just like ours 😉 Working together is an endless adventure, always inspiring creativity. In learning to trust ourselves, and lean hard into whatever creative inspiration a moment provides, magic truly happens anywhere!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First things first. Are you traveling by train, plane, or something insane? A day (or week) in Los Angeles will only provide a glimpse into this City’s historic atmosphere.
If you are coming in via train, let’s stay awhile at Union Station. Catch a glimpse of the astonishing Gatsby-like ceilings and fawn over the vintage ticket booths, architectural art pieces situated right next to the grand wooden information booth.
Not only is the station a history icon, it’s positioned right next to the cutest little outdoor Mexican marketplace. Olvera Street.
But okay okay, so maybe you’ve got your own car and want to be more exploratory. First things first, get ready for traffic!
The Getty Museum and Griffith Observatory close by, but there are also countless stunning and iconic beaches. Say you want to visit Muscle Beach in Venice, or visit the one and only Manhattan Beach Pier and shopping strand. Regardless of where you want to go and what sites you are in the mood to see, L.A. will have it.
In my opinion, the beach communities provide the best eats. From either The Kettle or El Tarasco in Manhattan Beach, to the Great White in Venice, there is absolutely no shortage of amazingly good flavor.
When you visit Los Angeles, whether site-seeing or bite-eating, your senses will be on overload.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There is no “I” in success. No dream ever comes true without a little corrective nudge, a little love, & a lot more support than we know what to do with. I wouldn’t be in this stage of my business if it wasn’t for the generosity or willingness of other vendors, risking their own idea of success to take a chance with me.
Michelle Prieto, owner of The Ceremony Place, has literally witnessed all my highs and lows. Michelle’s ability to wear a smile, to build everyone up around her, and to work through any kind of unexpected surprise, proves she’s the most determined to provide greatness to her people, no matter what. She’s a jack of all trades, and a business blessing without any disguise!

Website: https://www.michellereneegreenephotography.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/michellereneegreenephotography

Facebook: https://Facebook.com/michellereneegreenephotography

Other: email me directly at michelle@michellereneegreenephotography.com

Image Credits
Jacinda Jordan of Z & Z Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.