Behind the desk with Karen Melissa Photography
Meet Karen Melissa, a Hamilton, Ontario-based wedding and family photographer. Karen’s approach is deeply rooted in building trust and connection, ensuring that every session reflects the true essence of her clients. She specializes in capturing honest, unposed moments—images that feel as natural and nuanced as the people in them. With the support of NT Virtual Co., she’s been able to focus more on her creative process. Keep reading to learn more about her journey!
Natalie: What inspired you to start your business, and how has it evolved?
Karen: I started my business because I wanted to photograph people in a way that felt honest and grounded. Not overly posed, just real. I’ve always been inspired by movement and how people naturally carry themselves through body language and subtle movements. I have a different relationship to sound, so I’m always relying more on what I can see and feel. That’s what drew me to have that special connection with my clients.
Over time, my business has grown into something more intentional and sensory-driven. I’m especially drawn to intimate weddings/engagements, embodiment portraiture, and family sessions - spaces where people feel safe enough to just be themselves and to show up fully in their element. I strive to make my clients feel seen and heard throughout the process.
Natalie: What challenges were you facing before working with NT Virtual Co., and how has our partnership helped address those?
Karen: Before working with Lisa and NT Virtual Co., I was managing every part of my business on my own—shooting, editing, client communication, and website updates. After full-time work, I often didn’t have the energy to maintain my website or stay consistent with my online presence, which made it difficult to grow and stay organized.
Partnering with NT Virtual Co. has been a game-changer. Lisa has taken on the backend tasks that were draining my time and energy, allowing me to focus more on the creative side and on showing up fully for my clients. Her support has brought much-needed balance and clarity to my workflow.
Natalie: How do you stay organized and focused as a business owner? Do you have any go-to tools or habits?
Karen: Staying organized is essential, especially when balancing my creative work with business demands. I rely on clear boundaries—setting specific times for client work, editing, and administrative tasks, so I don’t get overwhelmed. Having a routine helps me maintain focus, especially on days when my energy is low. I have days when I feel overstimulated, so rest is essential.
Natalie: What’s been one of the most rewarding moments in your business so far?
Karen: One of the most rewarding moments has been when clients tell me they felt truly seen and comfortable during a session. Knowing that I created a space where they could be themselves, without pressure or pretense, and that I captured something meaningful for them is incredibly fulfilling.
Natalie: Lastly, what advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about hiring an admin expert?
Karen: Don’t wait until you’re burned out to ask for help. If you’re juggling too much or constantly putting off important tasks, a virtual assistant can give you the support you need to move forward with more clarity and ease.
Be clear about what you need, and choose someone who understands your vision. The right VA isn’t just there to take things off your plate, they’re a partner in helping your business grow.
Stick to your zone of genius.
Whether you need a partner who gets into the nitty-gritty, day-to-day of your business or you just need someone to check things off that neverending to-do list, we’ve got you covered.
