Congratulations Melissa Baker!

We really do have the coolest clients! Three years ago in Florida, Becky Baker called me from Ohio and asked if I could photograph her daughter, who at the time was 17 and was getting into modeling. The goal at that time was to get more bridal jobs. So they made their trip to Florida and got stuck in Miami with some pretty amazing photographers down there. Unfortunately they ran out of time and never made it to Orlando. But for Melissa, that ended up being her big break.

Over the past three years we've stayed in touch, keeping each other updated on family, travel, work, etc. And throughout that time she's been in campaigns for Abercrombie, Sisley, Luomo Vogue, Express, and countless others. I think I even recall her saying that she has something upcoming with Ralph Lauren. Pretty cool, huh?

Well, last October while I was in NYC for PhotoPlus, I finally had the chance to meet up with Melissa and Becky to do the bridal images that she was initially hoping to add to her book. What I didn't realize, was that she had just returned from a shoot in the Caribbean for a big-time project. I don't profess to be a big reader of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, but this week the annual publication hit newsstands worldwide and Melissa is one of the featured models. As her mother explained, this is unquestionably one of the top jobs a model can be selected for.

Congratulations, Melissa. Your drive and ambition are outstanding and your commitment to your family and values keeps you grounded. We wish you much continued success!