Michelle Zapanta Photography

What began as a pastime has turned into a huge obsession and a career. As a kid, I spent my lunch money at the picture store developing films because I had a camera with me at all times. I grew obsessed with photographing as many natural moments as possible and fell in love with the idea of expressing people's stories through images rather than words. I'm a Midwesterner who despises the cold wind in the winter. Snow, on the other hand, is one of my favorite things because it makes for great selfies! I was born and reared in the Philippines, therefore I have a strong desire to return to the tropics. My parents are of Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish ancestry, respectively. My FOURTH language was English, which I proudly kept to the point where people don't believe I arrived in this country at the age of 15! My Shiba Inu, Simba, is the best stress reliever I've ever had. Erick, my high school sweetheart, and I married. He'd constantly say I'd come onto him, and I'd always answer, "You wish!" After three no's, his perseverance gained him a yes. We became a couple when he sent flowers to my house and apologized for abandoning me after our walk to my favorite ice cream shop. My medicine is his wit. My daily vitamins are his hugs and kisses. He's a big fan of my work, so don't be shocked if you see him during our consultations and shootings, helping to put our grooms at ease and carrying all my heavy gear! Reach out today; I’d love to document all the moments of your big day in a way that is beautiful and tailored to you and your significant other.