Waking up with Butterflies
Waking Up With Butterflies | Butterfly Wonderland
“Catching creativity is like catching butterflies — fast-flying, bright-colored sparks darting here and there, it requires quick wits, good eyes and desire to net them. And once you have them, you need to act fast. An idea, like a butterfly doesn’t last long: it is ephemeral. It is here, and now it is gone — so quick, grab your laptop, you pen and paper, your Dictaphone, your sketch pad, whatever your mode of expression or recording, swoop and catch.”
— Lucy H. Pearce
When we were in Arizona last month my dad treated me to a mini photography retreat 🙂 He set it up for me to wake up with the butterflies on an early Saturday morning at Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, AZ.
When he informed me of this delightful little treat, I gasped with excitement and was giddy like a little girl.
More than he knew I was dying inside for some soul food … some creative nature photography.
I packed up a few of my favorite lenses: Lensbaby Velvet 56, Lensbaby Edge 80, and my Sigma 35mm 1.4 Art lens. My plan was to use all three and I did just that.
I was one of a small group of seven women. We walked around for about 2 hours careful to not step on any little delicate creatures. Each one of us were all in our element … the energy in the air was buzzing with hopes of creative captures.
Catching creativity is like trying to catch butterflies … but I managed to capture quite a few and my soul was satisfied. Enjoy 🙂
Thank you Dad!
Many of these images can be purchased HERE!
Oh hey there, nice to meet you!
I’m Shannon O’Malley— a Minneapolis-based (soon-to-be Dallas, TX!) photographer who specializes in online dating profile photography, personal branding portraits, business headshots, and senior sessions. Whether you’re showing up on dating apps, LinkedIn, or your website, I create natural light photos that help you feel confident, magnetic, and true to yourself.
With over 15 years of experience — and a journey that’s taken me from single mom to entrepreneur (with a CBS feature along the way) — I’ve seen firsthand how the right photos can open doors. From attracting more aligned matches to landing dream clients, your image is often the first impression. Let’s make it count.
I also help service providers and creatives get discovered through AI search tools like ChatGPT. I’m the creator of the AI Discovery Checklist and the upcoming course Booked by ChatGPT, designed to help people like you show up where your dream clients are already asking, “Who should I hire?”
Oh, and I’m also the founder of the Empowered Evolution Mentorship Program — where I teach photographers how to build profitable, sustainable businesses with intentional marketing, smart SEO, and systems that don’t burn you out.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me with my husband, my son, and our beautifully blended family — soaking up everyday joy here in the Twin Cities (for now!). We’re relocating to Dallas, Texas in 2026, where I’ll continue offering my signature photography experience for daters, creatives, and business owners in the DFW area.
Ready for photos that actually feel like you? Whether you’re leveling up your dating profile, your personal brand, or your online visibility, I’ll guide you every step of the way.Let’s book your session — or start with the free AI Discovery Checklist.
Photographed by Shannon O’Malley of Shannon Kathleen Photography — Twin Cities photographer specializing in dating and branding portraits.
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