
Hey!
My name is Melissa Ferrara and I'm a documentary lifestyle photographer specializing in portraits, weddings, and travel. I currently live in Chicago with my boyfriend, and rowdy Boston Terrier, Rooney. When I'm not behind the camera, I enjoy making a fool of myself at karaoke, rooting for my beloved Chicago White Sox, and finding the best donuts in the city. I love exploring new places and make a point to travel somewhere new each year. Although, most days you can find me at home watching The Office for the millionth time.
WHO IS IRON + HONEY?
Melissa is Greek for “honey bee” and Ferrara is a Latin derivative of “ferrum” meaning “iron.” Boom. There you have Iron + Honey.
I’m not one of those people that were gifted a camera by a relative at a young age and destined to be a photographer when I grew up. I picked up photography as a hobby in college while working towards a degree in advertising. On top of the classes I took to gain the technical and compositional skills, I worked at a portrait studio and spent my free time taking photos of everything I could. I was also given a wonderful opportunity to work alongside some of Chicago’s most talented photographers. After graduation, I knew I wanted to pursue photography as a career.
My favorite part about photographing weddings is all the unique ways there are to celebrate. Also, it’s so exciting being able to document all the emotion on such an important day knowing that people will be looking back on these photos for years to come. Photography is such an important part of a wedding. After the food is eaten and flowers are wilted, the photographs will be the only thing you have to remember the best day of your life.
I also photograph lifestyle images for brands and influencers. My background in advertising has helped me understand the importance of highlighting the subject’s personalities as well as consistent, professional imagery to promote a product or brand.

OTHER FUN STUFF
My blog consists of weddings, events, and portrait sessions I photograph as well as any tips I find to be helpful for photographers or anyone planning a portrait session or wedding. I also write about personal accomplishments and travels. If you'd like to learn more about me and see what I've been up to recently, you can check out my blog and subscribe to my newsletter. The best way to get to know me is to reach out, so send me a message and we can chat!

behind the scenes
