Nina Merklina Photography

10/03/2025

Two little explorers, one autumn evening. A pocket full of leaves, a very convenient rock, a flower clutched like treasure, and the kind of laughter that makes parents forget how exhausted they are…

10/01/2025

When your model is part sunshine, part Saturday football. 💛💙

09/30/2025

🍁 Fall is showing up early this year 🍁

The leaves are already starting to turn in Chapel Hill, and it looks like peak color may hit sooner than usual. My usual “sweet spot” (Oct 15–24) might sneak forward, so if you’ve been waiting to book, now’s the moment.

Booking link is here: https://www.merklina.com/fall-sessions

- Flexible dates (we’ll adjust if color/weather shifts)
- Southern Village flat rate, or we can roam to your favorite spot
- Golden hour magic - those sunset slots go first

Let’s catch the color while it lasts, whether it’s your first time in front of my lens or your annual tradition! ❤️

09/25/2025

Fall is trying to sneak in, but summer called and said, "Nope, still here". And clearly, so is the sunshine in this girl. She brought the glow, and Merritt’s Pasture at golden hour did the rest. LOVE IT!
🌸☀️

07/29/2025

Class of 2026 is stepping up to the edge of everything.
This is your time.

Senior year is full of firsts, lasts, and everything in between.
These portraits aren’t about perfect smiles. They’re about capturing that moment—right before everything changes.

They’re about you.

Two session options. Golden light. Quiet moments.

📍 Chapel Hill | Carrboro | Durham
Booking now for fall:

Senior photo sessions for Class of 2026 in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Two session options. Natural, expressive portraits that feel like you.

05/17/2025

Junior Prom - Oak. Killing it!

02/21/2025

"They said 'stand still and smile'. - I said 'not a chance.'"

02/20/2025

A rare and (hopefully) brief visit from winter—just enough to make everything look magical before turning into slush and vanishing. I grew up in Moscow, where snow wasn’t a treat—it was just an unavoidable, months-long workout in shoveling, digging out your car, and layering up. So honestly I don’t miss it one bit. 😆

But I have to admit, Southern Village looks quite different in white, and I couldn’t resist snapping a few shots before my usual snow-free reality returns.

Some might call this a winter wonderland. Others… well, I bet they’re eagerly awaiting the thaw.

02/07/2025

Flashback Friday time! Look what I found! Where did the time go?

Here is to sunshine, giggles, and the kind of carefree joy that childhood is made of. ☀️💕 These two remind me that the best moments are often the simplest—warm air, fresh grass, and a best friend by your side.

With spring just around the corner, I can’t wait for more joyful moments like this! Who else is counting down the days to warmer weather?

02/06/2025

Here’s what I was talking about… That moment when the nerves melt away, and all that’s left is joy, connection, and pure presence. The best photos aren’t rehearsed—they happen when you stop thinking about the camera and just feel. And that’s when the magic happens. ✨

02/05/2025

"I hate my nose."
"My thighs look huge."
"I should’ve waited until I lost weight."

I hear it all the time. Most people don't like being photographed. And it doesn’t matter who they are—I’ve had powerhouse CEOs crumble in front of the lens. I’ve seen the most stunning, confident people suddenly pick themselves apart.

The camera lens feels like a spotlight, and suddenly, every insecurity bubbles up.

But here’s something I’ve learned: a photo session isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s about learning to see yourself differently. And learn how to be seen.

At the beginning of a session, most people are stiff, guarded. But as we talk, as I guide, something shifts. The nerves fade. The laughter takes over. And by the end, people walk away lighter. Like they’ve let go of something. And they did.

Because being seen—really seen—without judgment, without filters, is liberating. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.

So if you’ve been putting it off—if you’ve ever said, “I’ll book a session when I lose weight.” Or “I’m just not photogenic.”—this is your sign.

(And yes, I need to take my own advice. I’ve been putting off my own headshot for the same reason. 🙃)
Because showing up for yourself? It matters. And I promise, it’s worth it.

02/03/2025

👀 Stop Scrolling & Check Your LinkedIn Photo. Right Now. 👀

Be honest—does it still represent you? Or is it just a picture from a conference three years ago that *you think* still looks good?

You might be long overdue for a new headshot if...
- It was cropped from a group photo or taken in bad lighting
- It doesn’t reflect how you want to be seen today
- Your profile pic is 3+ years old

A great headshot isn’t just about looking good—it’s about looking your best for your *particular purpose*. And right now, I’m offering something rare:

🔥 A full headshot session for the price of a mini!

That means:
✅ More time, so you never feel rushed
✅ Multiple looks to match your industry and personality
✅ Expert posing and guidance—because no one naturally loves being in front of the camera
✅ A polished, professional image that works across LinkedIn, company sites, and speaking engagements

⏳ Spots are limited! Book before the end of February to lock in your session:

Book a full headshot session for the price of a mini! Enjoy extra time, guided posing, and polished results in a stress-free process. Limited-time offer—perfect for LinkedIn, social media, and more!