We recently had the chance to connect with Melissa Bordeau Mark and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Melissa, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I try to have somewhat of a consistent morning routine each day. Lately, my goal is to not look at my phone or computer for the first 60 minutes of waking up. I’ll get some morning sunlight, stretch, take my dog on a walk. Then I’ll cook some breakfast and either journal, pull some tarot cards, or read. Depending on what else I have on the schedule for the day, I’ll either get ready to go to a work out class or prepare myself for a photoshoot.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Absolutely. I’m Melissa, an Austin based commercial and editorial photographer. My focus is on creating images that help your brand & business show up boldly and stay unforgettable.
Whether it’s product photography, branding, corporate events, real estate, or portraits/headshots, I create visuals that connect, engage, and leave a lasting impression. Each project is unique, but I strive to always bring a fresh mix of creativity, enthusiasm, and a sharp eye for detail to every shoot.
With me, you’re not just booking a photographer — you’re gaining a creative collaborator. From concept development and art direction to seamless execution and refined post-production, I’m here to ensure every detail is thoughtfully curated.
Right now, I’m focused on helping brands show up confidently and visually express who they are. I believe your photos should feel like an extension of your energy — natural, powerful, and totally unforgettable.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a deeply creative kid. I loved drawing, coloring, and coming up with stories—often turning them into handmade books where I’d come up with the plot and illustrate each page. My sister and I spent our childhood in Minnesota, building elaborate igloos in the snow and making up plays and dances to perform for our family. We loved to use our imagination and see where that took us.
That innate creativity stayed with me. I took every art class I could through high school and college, always knowing that a creative path was where I belonged. Looking back, those early days of playful self-expression laid the foundation for the visual storytelling I do now as a photographer.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I didn’t go to college for photography, so when I first started my business, I carried a lot of fear that I wouldn’t be taken seriously—that I wasn’t “legit” enough to pursue the kind of work I truly wanted to do. Imposter syndrome at it’s finest. I didn’t have a formal background in photography, but I learned my camera quickly, and thanks to my background in marketing, I was able to build and launch my business fast.
I’ve been a full-time photographer since January 2019 and learned photography just one year prior in 2018, but in those early days, imposter syndrome held me back. I played small at times—hesitating to pitch myself to certain clients or take on bigger creative projects—because I doubted myself.
Over time, experience, results, and client trust helped me move past that fear. I realized that creativity, connection, and vision matter more than a degree—and that being self-taught is actually one of my strengths.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Since day one, I’ve been fully committed to building a business that works for me—creatively, financially, and personally. Once I decided I wanted to be a full-time photographer, that commitment has never wavered.
I weathered the challenges of COVID, pivoting from weddings to commercial and brand photography, and that shift opened up a new level of alignment in my work. Even in seasons of struggle or uncertainty, I’ve always kept the bigger vision front and center.
I truly believe this is what I’m meant to do. Photography isn’t just my career—it’s my passion. And I feel grateful every single day that I get to be in a creative career path.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Most days—hell yes! I’ve built a career that genuinely excites me, and I feel grateful every day that I get to do work that lights me up. Of course, there are hard moments—tough days come with the territory of running your own business—but those challenges make the wins feel even more meaningful.
One of the things I love most is the variety. That’s been an intentional part of how I’ve structured my business. I thrive on change, and doing something different each day keeps things fresh and creatively energizing.
Just last week, I photographed five homes for a real estate firm, shot product photography for a candle brand, captured a fashion editorial, and wrapped up the week with a branding session for an entrepreneur launching her new business. No two days are ever the same—and that’s exactly how I like it. Each project brings new faces, fresh energy, and creative expression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bordeauphoto.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bordeauphoto
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissabordeaumark/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bordeauphoto1
