MLD Photography

I’m Mel, the face behind MLD Photography, and portraiture is at the heart of what I do. Based in Arbroath and serving the wider Angus area, I specialise in creating relaxed, candid portraits that capture real personality — whether that’s a playful child, a close-knit family, or a professional wanting an approachable headshot. My style is vintage, candid and fun; I aim to evoke love, joy and natural confidence in every image. What sets my portrait work apart is a blend of technical care and genuine human connection. With a 14-year background in early years education I know how to put children at ease and draw out authentic expressions. I’m paediatric first aid trained, so you can trust I’ll keep little ones safe and comfortable during a session. This experience translates into a calm, friendly atmosphere that helps everyone — from toddlers to adults — relax and be themselves in front of the camera. My approach is personal and collaborative. I encourage clients to take ownership of their shoot so the images reflect what matters most to them. In the studio I create a laidback environment where candid moments can emerge naturally; on-location sessions capture personalities in places that mean something to you. I focus on storytelling through subtle direction, gentle prompts and plenty of patience, rather than stiff, overly posed shots. While portrait and family photography are my primary focus, I also offer business portraits and professional headshots for clients who want a warm, approachable image for LinkedIn, websites or social media. These are presented with the same relaxed ethos — professional, but never clinical — so your portrait feels like you, not like a photo shoot. If you’re in Arbroath or nearby in Angus and want portraits that feel authentic and timeless, I’d love to chat. Whether you’re after a studio session, family portraits, newborn capture at home, or a simple headshot refresh, I bring care, creativity and a commitment to preserving the moments that matter most.