Meet Michelle Bradsher
North Carolina photographer
Hi, I’m Michelle!
Here’s the deal: I’ve never met a stranger in my life. Seriously. Ask any of my clients — by the end of our session, we’re basically besties. Some of my closest friends actually started out as clients, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. For me, this job isn’t just about pretty photos (though we’ll definitely get those) — it’s about connection, comfort, and capturing the kind of emotions that make you feel something every time you look back.
I’ve basically had a camera glued to my hand since I was 15. What started as me just playing around turned professional in my early 20s when I began shooting weddings — and from there, it bled into literally everything else. Families, newborns, boudoir, milestones, couples, births… you name it, I’ve photographed it. People say you should pick one specialty, but honestly? My ADHD brain could never. I’d get bored. So instead, I’ve spent years perfecting all of them — and I love the variety. Every week feels like a new adventure.
I’m also a mama of four and a paramedic (yep, I can save your life and take your pictures). Before I made photography my full-time gig (going on four years now!), I was working 24-hour ambulance shifts through the chaos of COVID and beyond. And yes, my medic side still sneaks into my photography world — I’ve been at weddings where someone actually needed a medic, and guess who was there? 🙋♀️ So when you hire me, you’re not just getting a photographer. You’re getting a hype girl, a memory keeper, and maybe even a lifesaver if things get wild. LOL
At the end of the day, I don’t just want to take your photos — I want to tell your story, make you feel comfortable, laugh with you, and capture the kind of images that make your heart smile. 💕
FAQ
Do you travel for photoshoots?
If you’re willing to bring me along, I’ll pack my bags and meet you anywhere in the world (seriously — just pay my way and I’m there, lol).
Each session includes up to 30 miles of travel outside of Alamance County, NC. After that, it’s simply priced per mile. The only exception? Some of my wedding packages come with unlimited mileage — because love stories don’t come with boundaries.
What should we wear for our session?
Let’s be real — what you wear to your photo shoot sets the whole vibe. ✨ Your outfit isn’t just clothes; it’s what creates the color, mood, and overall feel of your photos. That’s why I’m super intentional about it.
Because my color guide is so specific (and honestly a little magical), I only send it out after you book — gotta keep some secrets so not everyone can steal my style, lol. But I will let you in on the biggest tip: neutrals, neutrals, neutrals. They photograph beautifully every single time. And don’t worry, once you’re officially booked, I’ll send you my detailed guide so you’ll know exactly what works best.
How long does it take to get our photos?
I know the waiting game is the worst, which is why I built Southern Elegance Photography around fast sneak peeks. Most sessions come with a 24-hour sneak peek (yep, I was doing it before everyone else jumped on the trend 😉). For larger sessions like weddings, sneak peeks may range from 24–72 hours, but I always make sure you’re not left hanging.
Full galleries for simple sessions usually take about 2–3 weeks (sometimes less if it’s not crazy busy season). Weddings are a bigger labor of love, so those albums take anywhere from 6–10 weeks depending on the time of year. Either way, you’ll always know what to expect — and you’ll never feel like you’re waiting forever.
Do you offer payment plans?
Absolutely! I get it — photography is an investment, and sometimes breaking it up just makes life easier. I do offer payment plans, so you don’t have to pay it all at once. Just ask me when you book, and we’ll figure out a plan that works for you.
Only 30% of the total package is due at booking.
Will you Photoshop me? 💁♀️
Short answer: yes and no. I’ll absolutely edit out things like blemishes, stray hairs, or that random pimple that showed up the morning of your shoot (because, rude). But I won’t morph you into someone you’re not. You’re already gorgeous, and my job is to show that off — not make you look like a different person. Think polished, not plastic.
Do you help with posing? I’m awkward in front of the camera.
Girl, same — which is exactly why I’ve got you covered. I’ll guide you through every step with natural prompts, little movements, and poses that don’t feel stiff or fake. Most of the time you’ll be laughing, twirling, or cuddling up, and before you know it, you’ll forget the camera is even there. Awkward? Not on my watch.