An Interview with Melissa Sampson

I’m Caitlin from Creative SEO Coach, and I recently sat down with Fargo photographer Melissa Sampson to chat about her journey into photography and what makes her sessions so special.

Melissa specialises in maternity, newborn, and family photography, capturing some of life’s earliest and most meaningful moments. From tiny NICU beginnings to growing families returning year after year, her work is all about creating timeless, heartfelt images.

In this interview, she shares how she got started, what she loves about photographing families in Fargo, and her favourite sessions to capture.

How did you get started in photography, and what drew you to maternity, newborn, and family sessions specifically?

I’ve been interested in photography since I was little and had a film camera, which I mostly used for landscape photos. When I graduated from college, I received a DSLR, and a high school friend reached out about photographing her baby in the NICU.

I really enjoyed that session and started photographing the children of friends. Over time, this naturally grew into newborn and maternity photography. Family sessions have always been part of maternity and newborn sessions, so they also became a core part of my business.

What do you love most about being a photographer in Fargo, North Dakota?

I love all of the clients I have met throughout the years and watching their families grow. I have been fortunate enough to photograph multiple babies from the same family, and it’s so special to see their little ones year after year.

How would you describe your photography style?

I describe my style as timeless and simple. I focus on creating images that won’t feel tied to a specific trend, but instead age gracefully and resonate over time.

Check our my photography portfolio to see my work.

What baby age is your favourite to photograph?

My favourite sessions to photograph are sitter sessions.

What is a sitter session?

A sitter session is the age range. It’s typically between 6 and 9 months old. It means the baby can sit up unassisted.

Why are they your favourite?

Their personality is starting to shine through and they are curious about everything. I can typically get lots of smiles and fun expressions at this age.

Do you have any favourite cake smash themes or ideas?

My favourite cake smash themes are simple and timeless, with minimal props. These sessions keep the focus on the baby and the cake.

A favourite alternative to cake smashes is a paint session, where the baby gets to have fun and create something special. Families also get to take home a canvas as a keepsake.

Check out my article on Cake Smash photography ideas and the best bakeries to buy your cake smash cake from in Fargo.

What are your favourite photo locations in Fargo for family or maternity sessions?

Photographing in downtown Fargo is always my favourite. There are so many different brick tones and murals in a small area, which creates a lot of variety in one session.

Check out my article to see my top photo locations in Fargo.

What has been one of your most memorable sessions?

One of my most memorable sessions was actually one of the first I ever did, before I officially started my business.

A high school friend reached out for photos of her baby in the NICU at Essentia. Her little girl was so small in the incubator, but already had such a strong fighting spirit. She is now full of personality and thriving.

How far in advance should someone book a photographer in Fargo?

If you are looking to book a photographer in Fargo, it’s best to book 1 to 2 months in advance, especially if you have a specific photographer in mind.

This helps secure your preferred date and gives the photographer time to prepare anything needed for your session.

Do you offer photography sessions outside of Fargo or travel for shoots?

Yes, I do travel outside of the Fargo area and have photographed as far as Rome, Italy.

What’s one destination on your bucket list that you’d love to photograph?

If I had to choose one place in the world, it would be Lago di Braies in Italy. If I had to choose somewhere locally in Fargo, it would be Brewhalla.

Where can people find you or book a session?

You can book a session through my contact page, email me at hello@melissasampsonphotography.com, or reach out via Facebook or Instagram.