Melissa Motyka Photography

Photography has always been a significant, bright, and challenging passion of mine. In January 2018, I decided to pursue it as a business, to see where it could take me, to see how I could push myself to be better. In the time since I started IYW, I met and captured memories of incredible people who became friends. I learned how to build a website. I was pushed (way) out of my comfort zone. I tried things that scared me. I worked with incredible photographers. I sec...ond shot my first wedding, and then shot one on my own. I was invited into beautiful, intimate moments. I was (so) lucky to gain wonderful repeat clients. I made friends who live across an ocean. All in all, I built a business that I’m very proud of. All of these reasons are why this post is a little sad for me. But it’s also happy. It signifies a wonderful new adventure in my career. As many of you know, I have a full-time job outside of photography. It’s a career I’m passionate about, and also one that has presented wonderful opportunities. It’s one that is taking off in a new direction for me, and that I’m so excited to dive into. It’s why I’ve been so quiet here lately. As you might have guessed, I have made the tough decision to no longer book any photography sessions going forward. I cannot tell you enough how much I appreciate your support, love, trust, and business. I love my clients so much, and I’m sad this chapter is closing. Every single session was so special to me, and I will miss no longer making those memories with you. For clients who have booked sessions with me for this year, we’re still on for those! I can’t wait to see you. I’ll cherish your sessions that much more. To everyone else - I love you and thank you. I’m so thankful to have been a little part of your captured memories. Maybe IYW will come back one day. In the meantime, I’ll still check in once in a while here. I hope to see you then. Love, Melissa See more

LOVE this bag and this gal! And loved doing this brand shoot

A year ago I got an Instagram message from Eleanna requesting a brand session for her family’s hand-painted purse + clothing line @myheARTluxury. We met up for the first time at Dundas Peak to shoot her beautiful products on a sunny fall day. After our session, I remember feeling like I had known her and her boyfriend Jason forever, and like I was somehow already friends with them. Now, 11 months later, we’ve done four sessions together and have hung out outside of ...our branding work. Eleanna and Jason ARE my friends, and I feel so lucky that photography led me to this friendship! They are starting a new adventure very soon, so we had one last session together yesterday (for now, I hope!) among the colourful fall scenery in Oakville. I’m so thankful for you two and I can’t wait to catch up again one day soon! Check out M y h e A R T for the most exquisite hand-painted purses, like this clutch perfect for bridal parties! See more

I delivered Rachel + Natansh’s wedding gallery this week and am so excited to share some more images from this beautiful, colourful, amazing day. I was either wide-eyed or teary-eyed throughout the whole ceremony. My first solo wedding and my first Indian wedding all rolled into one. Won’t soon forget this