my fam
With 14 years of experience photographing newborns and children, I bring a blend of professional skill and real-life parenting know-how to every session. As a mom of four boys—including a bonus kid and a neuro-spicy child—I’m navigating everything from toddler tantrums to teenage talks. My personal experience with neurodivergence and blended families allows me to create a safe, welcoming environment for every child and parent. I’m passionate about capturing genuine moments and making photo sessions as stress-free and joyful as possible for all families of all backgrounds.
boy mom | caffeine connoisseur
I'm Marissa French Leal,
Photographer.
hey there,
2250+
cups of coffee consumed
15 YEARS OF MOTHERHOOD
100+
newborns
Photographed
Rhodes completed the crew.
Our last baby, fourth boy, and daily reminder that the little years are loud, fast, and too precious to miss.
Maverick was born. Motherhood reset — again. Navigating neurodivergence, toddlerhood, and running a business taught me more than any class ever could.
Met my husband Justin, and bonus kiddo Bane, and started building this wild, beautiful life together — chaos, connection, and all.
Started photographing other families while raising my own. What began as for fun turned into a lifelong calling.
Rylan made me a mom and changed everything. My love for capturing real, fleeting moments started here — in the chaos and the quiet of new motherhood.
it all
started
how
tomato soup + grilled cheese
6. my go-to favorite meal to make from scratch:
pottery for sure!
5. a hobby i have always wanted to start, but haven't yet:
d. outlander
c. gilmore girls
b. stranger things
a. the office
4. most likely to binge watch:
go on a walk
3. on my days off, the first thing I like to do is:
d. trousers & a button down
c. bluejeans & a tee
b. a dress & high heels
a. leggings & Oversized tee
2. my go-to outfit is:
any disney park
1. IF I COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE ON HOLIDAY, WHERE WOULD IT BE:
GET TO KNOW marissa
LET'S DO THIS THE FUN WAY, SHALL WE...
we highly recommend working with marissa!
"everything you touch is gold girl"
01/
- Jess
- ashley panko
all of our pictures turned out so beautiful!
"marissa is magic behind a camera and we are so happy!"
02/
we couldn't have asked for a better photographer!
"marissa is blessed at what she does, we love her work!"
03/
- vera + logan
Real mom. 14 years behind the camera. I create calm in the chaos — so all you have to do is show up and love on your people.
Whether we’re in your home, out in the wild, or in my cozy studio, I’ll guide the session with intention, flexibility, and a whole lot of heart. No stiff poses. No pressure. Just honest moments, beautifully preserved.
What Makes Me Different...
feel confident & comfortable
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