HOW IT ALL STARTED
The Lady Behind the Lens
Hello, my name is Michaela- but some call me M! I am a twenty-something girlie who is blessed to call the incredible city of St. Louis home. My favorite things include my loved ones, a stunning sunset, my amazing dog Daisy, Christmas lights, and cute babies.
Growing up, I have always had a heart for the creative, and moved from hobby to hobby until I found my first camera my senior year of high school. Thus- a new passion was born! Photography has woven in and out of my life for over ten years, and what a gift it has been. I also had an entrepreneurial spirit as a child, selling many different "creations", marching up and down every neighborhood to knock on every door to sell Girl Scout cookie boxes, and babysitting for anyone and everyone. Seeing the way both have combined into my adult years is such a blessing.
My previous background is in healthcare. I worked for several years in pediatric oncology as a CNA/MA and floated to every unit of the hospital when asked at one of the top pediatric hospitals in the midwest. Working in pediatric oncology taught me so many things that altered the lens in which I view the world forever. The ones that stick out are; the beauty of the large milestones and all the precious moments in between, the value of gratitude, and the joy from being where your feet are.
I see Maristella by M as the beautiful culmination of my past, present, and future story. I look forward to walking with you in your journey and telling the beauty of your story through irreplaceable images to last a lifetime!
Maristella by M's Name Story
"Life is a gift, and the Giver is so good." This became a mantra that was lived out in my personal story when I endured a near-fatal car accident in 2022. Blessed with multiple miraculous healings, and a new start on life- I had a reconversion of heart to my faith and to life itself. I prayed with "Mary-Star-of-the-Sea" (or in latin Maris Stella) for my faith to be my guiding light in the dark waters of the struggles ahead of my life- and the peace instilled in my heart was the biggest miracle of all.
Life is a gift, and the giver is so good.
Fun Facts About M
Passions
I love spending time outdoors, finding new local spots, curling up with a good movie or book, and getting my hands into a new project (I recently moved on from sourdough bread making to painting).
Favorite Foods/drinks
I am always down for a sweet treat, huge fan of all things appetizers (major emphasis on chips and dip), and a big lover of tea.
Giving Back
In my adult years I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend over 4,000 cumulative hours donating time and my photography talent to my community.
Me and my camera
I have had a camera glued to my hands since 2016! Photography has been the invisible string throughout many seasons of life to see the beauty in others and in everything.
colors
I am a lover of light, and believe in the power of emotion the composition of an image can convey. I am partial to blue, sage green, and gold personally!
Personality
I am an Enneagram Type 2, Leo, and ENFJ. My top charisms are encouragement, healing, writing, hospitality, teaching, and craftsmanship.