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Autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway as an Asheville Photographer
If you've never driven on the Parkway, you must! It is one of the most relaxing experiences and if you need an accessible way to see the fall colors (or anytime) this is a THE way. Last year, Hurricane Helene clobbered an astounding number of trees, and blew down so many leaves from the trees that remained standing and large sections of the parkway were closed due to landslide. We didn't' get a fall time last year. Our community went from late summer to living in what looked

Melinda Raines
Oct 271 min read


Archetype Reclamation Story VIDEO: Jamie & the Priestess
This is the story of Jamie's Archetype Reclamation Journey

Melinda Raines
Oct 251 min read


Behind the Scenes: Jeanie & the Jaguar
Behind the scenes of an Archetype Portrait Journey.

Melinda Raines
Oct 232 min read


Archetype Reclamation Story VIDEO: Jeanie & the Jaguar
This is the story of Jeanie's Archetype Reclamation Journey

Melinda Raines
Oct 151 min read


How to Prepare for Your Empowerment Photoshoot (Mind, Body, and Wardrobe)
Every portrait session begins long before the camera clicks. The real preparation isn’t about makeup or outfits — it’s about opening to be seen.
An Empowerment Photoshoot isn’t about performing; it’s about remembering, not just in your mind, but in your body. When you take time to prepare your mind, body, and environment, the experience becomes something deeper — a ritual of self-connection.

Melinda Raines
Sep 13 min read


From Motherhood to Muse: Reclaiming Identity through women's portrait photography
Motherhood transforms everything: our bodies, our priorities, our sense of time. But for many of us, it also brings an invisible loss — a quiet fading of the woman we once were.
The one who danced, who dreamed, who had her own rhythm before life revolved around everyone else’s needs.
An Archetype Portrait can be the moment she steps back into the frame. This is why I specialize in Women's Portrait Photography.

Melinda Raines
Aug 254 min read


The Most Magical Photoshoot Locations near Asheville, NC — Indoors, Outdoors, and In Between
Whether it’s sunlight streaming through your living room window, fog curling over the Blue Ridge Mountains, or murals glowing in the heart of downtown Asheville, the place you choose holds energy. It shapes how you feel, move, and show up.
As an Asheville portrait photographer, I see each location as part of the portrait’s soul — a mirror for the archetype that’s wanting to be seen.
Here are my favorite kinds of spaces to shoot in — and how each one calls forth a differen

Melinda Raines
Aug 194 min read


What's Archetype Portrait Photography? How This Transformative Experience Helps You See Yourself Differently
Have you ever looked at a photograph of yourself and thought, “That’s who I am becoming, my future self embodied in the now”? That’s the power of an Archetype Portrait — it’s not about posing or perfection. It’s about becoming.
In my clients' homes in the Asheville area and the wild landscapes beyond them, I help women step into their deeper story — the one written in their bones, their laughter, their gaze. the Warrioress, the Muse, the Healer, the Lover, the Queen.

Melinda Raines
Aug 124 min read


Capturing Family Moments in the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure. With their rolling hills, vibrant foliage, and stunning vistas, they provide the perfect backdrop for family memories. Whether you are hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the view, these mountains offer countless opportunities to capture special moments with your loved ones. In this blog post, we will explore how to make the most of your family time in the Blue Ridge Mountains. We will share tip

Melinda Raines
Aug 54 min read
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