I help people who feel awkward on camera show up confidently in dating photos — without forced poses or pretending to be someone they’re not. Dating insights featured on CBS News (WCCO). About Me →
I help people who feel awkward on camera show up confidently in dating photos — without forced poses or pretending to be someone they’re not. Dating insights featured on CBS News (WCCO)
My first Magazine Publication– Bella Grace Magazine Cover
This post will contain affiliate links for Stampington & Company. If you make a purchase through any of these links, I will get a commission. All opinions and reviews are 100% my own. Thank you Bella Grace Magazine for partnering with me!
After a years worth of hesitations, a few months ago I submitted some of my photography to Bella Grace Magazine for possible publication.
I first heard of the beautiful magazine on Instagram through a photographer friend. They tend to have photography contests and if you are one of the 4 images they pick as a winner you get a free magazine! As a result of entering these contests, I have won 3 🙂
Here is a statement right off of their website to tell you what they are all about :
“We believe: An ordinary life can be extraordinary, there is beauty in imperfection, and that magic can be found in the everyday.Bella Grace is meant to be savored. It is meant to get tossed in your beach bag, or tucked under your pillow to enjoy before bed. It is meant to be read over and over again. It is meant to be written in and dog-eared. It is meant to inspire you to discover magic in ordinary moments and accompany you on this beautiful adventure that is life. If you believe that life should be lived with a full heart and open eyes, come join us, and get lost in the beautifully penned stories and soul stirring photographs that make up Bella Grace.”
Very quickly after I sent the email with my photo submissions attached, they contacted me back saying, “This is too funny. We’ve been dying to contact you to be a featured instagrammer in Bella Grace! The images you sent over are GORGEOUS!”
I was absolutely flattered!! They then asked me to submit a statement telling them what living a Bella Grace Life means to me in under 50 words … which was hard for me! 😉 My response email was sent in and a few weeks went by.
On the evening of February 16th, I got a package in the mail from Bella Grace Magazine. I was absolutely giddy with joy thinking this would be the magazine with my feature in it!!
Little did I know after tearing open the package that one of my images would be THE COVER of the magazine!!!
What an amazing surprise that was!!! They also had a great section in the magazine featuring several more of my images. I am still having a hard time believing this happened 🙂
The stunning model on the cover is my beautiful friend and neighbor, Katy LeRoy 🙂
Then last week I discovered that the magazine is available at Barnes and Noble and has been spotted my many friends all over the US!! 🙂 So very exciting … it’s like a dream come true 🙂
Hi — I’m Shannon O’Malley.
I’m a Minneapolis-based (soon-to-be Dallas, TX) photographer specializing in online dating profile photography, personal branding portraits, business headshots, and senior sessions. I work with people who want photos that feel natural, confident, and genuinely reflective of who they are — not stiff, overproduced, or performative.
My approach is rooted in natural light, ease, and emotional intelligence. I believe the best photos happen when people feel comfortable enough to be themselves — and seen enough to trust the process. Whether someone is stepping back into dating, refining their professional presence, or marking a meaningful season of life, my goal is always the same: to create images that feel honest and quietly powerful.
With over 15 years of experience behind the camera — and a journey that includes single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and a national CBS feature — I’ve seen firsthand how much impact the right photos can have. A strong image isn’t about vanity. It’s about clarity. It’s often the first impression that shapes how others perceive you — before you ever get the chance to explain yourself.
This blog is where I share insights on photography, visibility, confidence, and showing up with intention — both on and off camera.
When I’m not photographing clients, you’ll usually find me with my husband, my son, and our beautifully blended family — soaking up everyday life here in the Twin Cities (for now). We’ll be relocating to Dallas, Texas in 2026, where I’ll continue offering my signature photography experience for daters, creatives, and business owners throughout the DFW area.
If you’re here because you want photos that actually feel like you, you’re in the right place. I’m glad you found your way here.
This is so awesome. Happy for you my friend! XO
Thank you Sooooo much Gretchen!! ❤❤ I’m so happy! ☺