about
MELANIE DUERKOPP
From the quiet intimacy shared between newlyweds to the joyful chaos of bringing home a newborn baby, Melanie Duerkopp is entrusted with capturing all of life’s unscripted moments.
A constant observer, she revels in preserving snippets of life that become invaluable memories. Melanie's passion for her craft is rooted in the connections she forms with her clients, often extending into multiple generations.
Born in Seattle and raised in Germany, Melanie inherited her love of photography from her father, who always ensured there was a camera readily available when inspiration struck. Returning to the states to attend the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, she landed an apprenticeship with famed celebrity and fashion photographer Michael Thompson.
Decades later, this seasoned professional still leans on her mentor’s advice and the unique experience she gained while at Thompson’s busy New York City studio. Beyond her ability to reload a medium-format camera at lightning speed during an editorial shoot, Melanie learned to look past the persona to capture the person inside. Always discrete and composed she has photographed numerous high-profile individuals, including celebrities, politicians, and Fortune 500 executives.
“I love being a part of my client’s milestones and delivering photos they will cherish for the rest of their lives to pass down as family heirlooms."
Melanie Duerkopp
Whether enjoying a sunrise stroll through the streets of St. Tropez or capturing a peaceful New York minute before the city wakes up, Melanie finds creative inspiration through her travels and exploration of the unique culture each location has to offer.
Between running a successful business and running after her three small children, free time is in short supply. Whenever she can steal a few moments for herself, Melanie enjoys flexing her culinary skills and cozying up with her family in their San Francisco apartment.
clients include
