Meet Michelle Kopras

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Kopras and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, what matters most to you?
Integrity is the backbone of my work. As a photographer, clients trust me with moments that can’t be redone. That trust deserves honesty, reliability, and respect. To me, integrity means showing up prepared, delivering what I’ve promised, and being transparent in every step of the process.
In an industry where style and trends change constantly, integrity is the steady ground I choose to build on. It’s what separates a transaction from a relationship. My clients know they can count on me not just for beautiful images, but for consistency, professionalism, and truth in how I do business.
When I lead with integrity, I know I’m building more than a portfolio, I’m building a reputation that lasts.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a warm, classic-style photographer who values capturing life’s most important moments. What excites me most is that, even after years in this industry, I’m still growing and connecting with clients who truly value the work I create. Starting out wasn’t easy, it took diligence, patience, and a lot of faith, but those challenges shaped the photographer and business owner I am today.
The lessons I’ve carried with me are simple but powerful: consistency builds trust, honesty deepens relationships, and integrity keeps clients coming back year after year. These values are at the heart of my business, and they’re what allow me to not just take photographs, but to create lasting connections.

My photography brand is built on thoughtfulness, care, and genuine connection. Every client I work with is more than just a booking to me, I pour love and intention into each session, because I know these are moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Over the years, this career has brought me so much more than beautiful images; it’s given me lasting friendships and the honor of being part of people’s most meaningful milestones. That sense of trust and connection is what drives me, and it’s why I’m so grateful for every single client who chooses me to tell their story.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1 – Arrival + Local Vibes
Pick them up, settle in, keep it easy grab some Dutch Bros
Dinner at one of your favorite cozy local restaurants (something with a warm, down-to-earth feel — maybe Oregano’s or Postino).
Evening walk around downtown Mesa or Old Town Gilbert for coffee/dessert.

Day 2 – Desert + Sunset
Morning: Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix (easy stroll, beautiful desert landscapes).
Lunch: Grab tacos or something quick local.
Evening: Hike up Papago Park or Hole-in-the-Rock for sunset views.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Sedona
Leave early morning.
Scenic drive up north (red rock views).
Do an accessible hike (Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock).
Late lunch in Sedona.
Drive back in the evening.

Day 4 – Relax + Family Fun
Slow morning, homemade breakfast. maybe a salt river trip to see the horses
Pool time (since Arizona heat is no joke).
Evening BBQ at your house with the kids and dogs — let them experience your world.

Day 5 – Phoenix Adventures
Morning: head to the superstition mountains to watch the sunrise
Afternoon: Visit Heard Museum or Phoenix Art Museum.
Dinner in downtown Phoenix, maybe rooftop dining.

Day 6 – Canyon Lake + Dolly Steamboat
Pack picnic food.
Morning drive to Canyon Lake (short and scenic).
Do the Dolly Steamboat cruise — beautiful views, wildlife spotting.
Evening back home: casual dinner, maybe a local brewery like Fate

Day 7 – Wrap-Up
Brunch at a favorite spot (like Snooze or The Coffee Shop at Agritopia).
Last-minute stroll through a farmers market or antique store.
Relax before heading to the airport.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to acknowledge my husband Ray, my family, and my friends—Tara Chatterton, Jamie Szymczuk, —for their constant support and encouragement. Their belief in me has been a steady source of strength, and I’m deeply grateful for the ways they’ve helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Website: https://www.michellehoffmanphotos.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellehoffmanphotography?igsh=djV4bXFueHFkYTMw&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19TBqtpz9T/?mibextid=wwXIfr