Meet Chrissy Marsman | Wedding & Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chrissy Marsman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chrissy, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work-life balance as a wedding photographer has definitely gone through some changes over time. In the early days, I was all about seizing every opportunity, and it felt like I was constantly behind the lens. I didn’t mind working those long hours, even on weekends, to build my reputation and make a name for myself.

But as I gained experience and a more established clientele, I began to rethink my approach. I realized that burning the candle at both ends wasn’t sustainable in the long run. I started making a conscious effort to find a better balance between my work and personal life.

Now, I see work-life balance as my secret weapon. I’ve learned to say “no” when I need to, take breaks between the wedding seasons, and enjoy my weekends off. It’s not just about taking care of my well-being; it’s about being more present and enthusiastic when I’m behind the camera.

By taking a step back and finding this more relaxed balance, I’ve not only improved my overall happiness and relationships but also the quality of the work I deliver. It’s all about enjoying both sides of life – the wedding magic and the moments in between – in equal measure.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart from others in the field is my dedication to capturing the unique and authentic moments that make each wedding special. I take pride in my ability to tell a couple’s love story through my lens, emphasizing the emotions, details, and the connection between them and their loved ones.

I’m particularly excited about the creative freedom that wedding photography offers. No two weddings are the same, and I love the challenge of finding new angles, experimenting with lighting, and creating one-of-a-kind images for each couple.

My journey to where I am today professionally wasn’t necessarily easy. It required hard work, determination, and a strong passion for photography. Early in my career, I faced challenges in building a client base and establishing my brand. I overcame these hurdles by networking, building a portfolio, and learning from my mistakes. Continuous learning and improvement have been key to my success.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of effective communication. It’s not just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about understanding the couple’s vision, managing expectations, and making them feel comfortable in front of the camera.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m not just a photographer; I’m a storyteller. I’m dedicated to capturing the essence of love and creating images that will be cherished for generations to come. My journey has been a labor of love, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of so many beautiful moments in people’s lives. My brand stands for professionalism, artistry, and the genuine joy of preserving the magic of weddings through my photography.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Exploring downtown Grand Rapids is a must. Breakfast at Wolfgang’s Restaurant. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Grand River and visit Ah-Nab-Awen Park.
Lunch at the Electric Cheetah, known for its unique and tasty comfort food.
Explore the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Dinner at The Sovengard, offering farm-to-table Nordic-inspired cuisine.
Head to Founders Brewing Co. for craft beers and live music.
Fredrick Meijer Gardens is also a must on the list.
So many awesome restaurants in Grand Rapids so hard to pick a few.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My awesome husband and son and wonderful family that continues to cheer me on.

Website: www.chrystinmelanie.com

Instagram: @chrystinmelanie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrystinmelanie

Image Credits
Chrystin Melanie Photography