Valentine's Mini session Registration now open!

 Valentine's Day mini photo sessions are a beautiful way to celebrate love in all its forms—whether it's baby's first Valentine’s Day, the cutest little outfits or bond between siblings. These sessions capture sweet, intimate moments in a fun and stress-free setting, making them a perfect gift to treasure forever.

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Your Central Iowa Portrait Photographer

with 26+ Years Experience

Serving Pella, Des Moines, and Central iowa

Hi, I’m Michelle! I can come to you for your session, or you’re welcome to visit my photography studio in the charming town of Pella. From the studio to your home or an outdoor location, let's create beautiful memories in the setting that suits you best! 

Let's have some

Fun!

Hey, I'm Michelle!

 I am a family & senior photographer with over 26 years of experience. I live on a Farm in between Pella & Des Moines with my husband, Joel and son, Briar. As a wife and mom of two grown-up boys, I know how important capturing memories is. They grow up so fast! My family is slightly obsessed with Everybody Loves Raymond and we may or may not have over 200 episodes saved on DVR just in case our internet goes down. HAHA!

Photography has played a significant role in my own life story, and I approach every session as if I were the one receiving precious memories. I’m so excited to embark on this journey with you and capture YOUR next big adventure!

Get to know me

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I specialize in capturing luxury senior, newborn and family photos. I present my work in exquisite heirloom-quality albums and on exquisite wall art, ensuring that your memories are preserved beautifully. I have a passion for travel and big cities which is why I offer senior photo trips. I have taken senior and family photos in Dublin, Ireland, Hilton Head Island, Colorado, Minnesota & Hilton Head Island. Let’s explore!

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SEnior Grads

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Find Everything At These 5 Baby Boutiques In Des Moines

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For being so small, babies sure need a lot of things! Throughout your pregnancy, it feels like you are constantly searching for gear from the car seat to the nursery furniture. And then comes the clothing! During those early months, you are always cycling through several outfits a day, wondering how anyone can keep up with this much laundry. What you could really use is a baby boutique that will carry everything so you will feel prepared for every situation! As a Des Moines newborn photographer, I get the chance to connect with parents who have found shops they adore. If you are looking for baby boutiques in Des Moines, here are the ones you need to check out! 

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Find Photo Ready Looks At These 6 Cute Boutiques In Pella, Iowa

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As a Des Moines senior photographer, I spend a lot of time chatting with students about local fashions. As a result, I’ve gotten the chance to explore some of the best boutiques in the city! Whether you lean toward the bright and preppy or have a tendency to stick to the sleek black look, we have plenty of options stocked with clothing I think you are going to adore. If you could use a little help building up your wardrobe, I would love to give you my list of some favorite boutiques in Pella, Iowa!

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Sarah & Ella

We had a fabulous experience with Michelle! She took our ideas and made them come to life. Michelle was so professional and fun! She made the whole senior picture experience less intimidating and easy to navigate. The photos are gorgeous - they are so creative, artistic, and beautiful! What a wonderful memory for Senior year!

Senior Photo Session
Des Moines, IA

"She took our ideas and made them come to life. ."

Abbi

We had a great experience with Michelle! We have had newborn photos taken with two of our kids and have loved the finished product and experience each time. The session was quick and friendly for our non-photogenic toddler! The turnaround for the finished photos was very quick as well!

Newborn & Family session
Pella, Iowa

"The session was quick and friendly for our non-photogenic toddler!"

Jeff & Tara

Michelle did a great job, she took our senior who never takes a good picture and who hates the thought of having his picture even taken, enjoy the entire time, and the end result was a set of amazing choices of pictures. Would sign up and do again no questions asked. Thank you for the great experience. - Jeff
Michelle did an absolute wonderful job! My son's senior pictures were amazing, and she made the process so easy! He is not one to enjoy getting pictures taken, and even he said that "it wasn't as bad as he thought it would be." If you know him, that says a lot! I highly recommend Michelle!!!!  - Tara

Senior Photo Session
Pella, Iowa

"the end result was a set of amazing choices of pictures!"

Rae

Michelle was so easy to work with! Responded to emails quickly and was great with scheduling around our changing due date. She made our newborn photo shoot so enjoyable. She was not pushy about upselling products, but I can’t lie, the pictures were so good I did buy more than originally planned 😅

Newborn Photo Session
Pella, Iowa

"She made our newborn photo shoot so enjoyable."

Raelynn & Macy

I was in a pickle and way behind getting my daughter’s senior pictures taken. I contacted Michelle and she went above and beyond for my daughter. From the photo session to the final product, we could not be happier. The experience was exactly what my daughter wanted, and I actually got a little teary when seeing the album for the first time. We are so happy with everything!

Senior Photo Session
Pella, Iowa

"I actually got a little teary when seeing the album for the first time!"

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I'm Excited to hear from you!

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& Let's Chat!

Tell me all about your vision for your session in the details below! I'm excited to start the conversation and bring your ideas to life. I respond to all inquiries within one business day, so you’ll hear from me soon!

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Love what you see? My availability is limited, so let’s start the conversation! Capturing meaningful moments and preserving them in timeless keepsakes is my passion. I can't wait to create something special with you—let's get started!

@michellegritters •  #iowaluxephotography

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