Elevating Marissa Belle Photography
A Nostalgic & Classic Brand Transformation
When Marissa Durham of Marissa Belle Photography came to House of Samantha, she knew it was time for a change. A Cincinnati-based wedding photographer known for her heirloom-worthy and artistically nostalgic imagery, Marissa had grown beyond her brand. It no longer felt like an extension of her or the clients she served. She sought a refresh that would capture her essence - timeless, refined, and approachable - with subtle nods to nostalgia.
At House of Samantha, our approach to creative direction is deeply personal. We don’t just style our clients; we translate their brand vision into an experience. With Marissa, this meant embracing classic influences while ensuring her brand remained warm, effortless, and uniquely hers.
Finding the Right Space
Initially, Marissa considered shooting in a studio. While a controlled environment has its perks, we knew this wouldn’t align with her brand’s emotive, storytelling nature. Her work isn’t sterile; it’s lived-in, romantic, and rich with sentiment. When she found an Airbnb with charming checkered floors and inviting textures, we both knew it was the right fit. The space exuded a quiet luxury that mirrored the depth of her photography.
Styling with Intent
One of the most rewarding parts of our process is blending a client’s personality with their professional image. Marissa isn’t the “blazer type,” and forcing her into something that didn’t resonate wouldn’t serve her brand. Instead, we worked with her wardrobe, selecting pieces that not only complemented her figure but also allowed her warmth and signature wit to shine through. The goal was to create a look that felt effortless and aspirational - just like her work.
Marissa also shares a deep bond with her French Bulldogs, and they are a core part of her life. We knew they had to be incorporated into the shoot. Including them wasn’t just about personalizing her imagery; it was about reinforcing the relatability and authenticity her clients appreciate.
The Art of Brand Investment
One of the biggest challenges many creative entrepreneurs face is investing in themselves. It’s easy to see brand photography as an expense, but in reality, it’s an investment in your business’s future. High-quality, intentional imagery helps articulate your value, attract aligned clients, and build a visual identity that withstands trends. Our role as creative directors isn’t just about styling—it’s about advocating for our clients. We help them see themselves through the lens of their audience and curate visuals that speak directly to the clients they want to attract. The final result? A half-day shoot that captured the refined, nostalgic elegance Marissa had been seeking. The combination of a thoughtfully chosen environment, well-styled outfits, and intentional brand storytelling resulted in a suite of images that position Marissa as both an artist and a trusted presence in the wedding industry.
Looking Ahead
With this new imagery, Marissa Belle Photography is poised to attract couples who appreciate classic beauty and timeless documentation. Her brand now speaks to the high-caliber clients she serves—those who want their wedding memories preserved with the same depth and artistry she brings to every frame. At House of Samantha, we believe that styling is more than just selecting the right outfit or setting; it’s about shaping a brand’s narrative. And when our clients see themselves reflected in a way that feels true to who they are, we know we’ve done our job well.
If you’re ready to step into the next phase of your brand, let’s chat about how House of Samantha can bring your vision to life.
