i'm here for the laughter, the chaos, and the beautifully real moments that make your family’s story unique
I'm Mel, I am the face behind Ardour Photography.
I'm a family photographer based in Bristol who specialises in Motherhood Photography. Why Ardour? Well, Ardour actually means to have great passion or enthusiasm about something or someone. When I was thinking about what to name my business, I wanted it to have true weight. The word Ardour was perfect! Not only does it represent the passion I have for photography, but also the love you have for your family.
To me images are not just an expense they are a true investment. They are something you can treasure forever allowing you to tell your life story. I believe that an image is a gateway that takes you back to all those warm and magical feelings of a moment in time that would otherwise fade if not captured.
I am so passionate about what I do and I am truly grateful for you allowing me to do what I love. Now let's start capturing your story!
about ardour photography by mel
I believe your family’s story deserves to be told with honesty, heart, and warmth. I’m not just here to take pretty pictures — I’m here to capture the real, meaningful moments: the way your newborn melts into your arms, the playful energy of your toddler’s laugh, and the quiet, knowing glances shared between parents. It’s those in-between moments — the ones that often go unnoticed — that truly tell your story.
My approach to family, newborn, and maternity photography is simple: keep it natural, keep it relaxed, and keep it real. I’m not about stiff poses or forced smiles. Instead, I create a calm and comfortable space where your family can simply be yourselves. Whether we’re in the studio during those early newborn days, outdoors chasing golden hour light for a maternity session, or capturing the beautiful chaos of everyday family life, I tailor each session to feel personal and true to you.
I’m inspired by real connection — the deep, messy, magical love that lives in everyday moments. As a motherhood and family photographer, I’m here to document the fleeting stages of parenthood and childhood in a way that feels timeless and heartfelt. No two families are the same, and that’s exactly why your story deserves to be told just as it is.
