Creative Self-Portraits (+ a freebie!)
The Creative Self-Portrait Experience:
A way to explore yourself in every possible situation, to stimulate the creative process, to improve self-knowledge and self-esteem, thus empowering yourself.
Along my photography journey I have discovered how passionate I am about female portraiture and creative self-portraits. For many of us, we can feel overwhelmed by orders as to who or what we should be… life gets hectic as we go about with work, maintaining a family, being a mom, wife, sister, daughter, grandmother, friend … the chance to belong to our own self can seem woefully out of reach.
We have a right to be alive in our own way, and that our relationship with our self is more intimate and more knowledgeable than anyone else’s experience of you can ever be.
Back in 2017 I wrote an eBook on all things Creative Self-Portraits! I poured my heart, soul, and brain into this project
In this eBook people learned:
* My why.
* Real working tips and advice on how to create your own self-portraits.
* About my philosophy and editing process behind 4 full breakdowns of images of my own.
* About my gear and my editing.
What they got:
* A 22 page PDF full of goodness and images.
* A bundle of 5 videos: 3 editing ones and 2 pull back image videos explaining my thought philosophy.
* A suggested list of inspiration.
* Access to a private Facebook group for continued inspiration and friendly support!
With this eBook I wanted to remind you of your real value as the creative soul that you are.
“For me, taking creative self-portraits started as a once or twice per month “must do” as a prompt for my 365 daily photo project I participated in. I loathed getting in front of the camera!!
But, like with anything in life, when I am presented with a feeling of resistance I tried to figure out why I don’t like it and how it really makes me feel.Upon examining those feelings, I discovered I felt fear, embarrassment, shy, unworthy, awkward, ugly, I felt like no one would care to see me, I wondered how I would be seen and judged.
You see, I was so preoccupied with my self-image.
When we are preoccupied with our self-image it is like being deaf and blind. It’s like standing in the middle of a vast field of wildflowers with a black hood over our heads. It’s like coming upon a tree of singing birds while wearing earplugs….. ”
“The time has come to harness the blessed power within us and to use it to transcend from our current existence into a more empowered reality.” –Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free
What Others Said:
“To anyone that’s on the fence on whether to purchase Shannon’s eBook…please do yourself a favor and just do it! Shannon’s work has inspired me so much over the course of the last couple years. I won’t lie…self-portraits for me is uncomfortable and awkward, and out of my comfort zone. But I think leaning into things that are uncomfortable, awkward, and out of our comfort zones is where some of our greatest growth comes from. Self-portraits are still all of those things for me, but more than that…they have become therapeutic. It’s caused me to see myself in a new light, caused me to be vulnerable, and has allowed for a more authentic version of myself to come through.”
“Anyone who knows me, knows I’m horrible at self-portraits. Shannon’s work is incredible and as soon as I learned she had written an e-book on all things Self-Portraits —- I scooped it up!!!! It is so insightful… from setups/pullbacks, tips & tricks and editing. Shannon’s e-book has really helped me trust myself in that I CAN DO THIS!!!
OK… now I’m heading out to take some self-portraits, and YOU should check out Shannon’s e-book!!!
Wish me luck! ”
“I’m so inspired! Can’t wait to get some time for more self portraits. I LOVED your book Shannon.”
“Regarding our perceived imperfections: It is getting easier. It’s totally therapy. It has been a long time since I was deeply connected to myself and it feels great getting it back :)”
“Shannon, I was so inspired by your eBook I didn’t even finish reading before I started shooting!!”
“I’m loving your ebook!!”
Transform Your Self-Image: Unleash the Power of Self Portraiture w/11 Expert Tips
Elevate your photography skills w/these 11 tips. Start your journey from doubts to a confident self-portrait artist. Download Your FREE Guide Now!
- How Self-Image Affects Intimacy in Relationships
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- Why Online Dating Feels Intense but Unstable (And How to Spot Real Compatibility)
- How to Date with Intention: Real Advice from a Dating Coach (Not TikTok)
- Best Dating Apps for Long-Term Relationships in Dallas (2026 Guide)
I am a photographer and dating strategist specializing in natural-light portraits that feel confident, approachable, and genuinely reflective of who you are. Whether I’m shooting a Dating Photos That Work™ session or a high-level personal branding project, my goal is to create images that are honest, not performative.
My Approach
Rooted in emotional intelligence and over 16 years of experience, my process is designed for the “unphotogenic.” I believe the best photos happen when you feel comfortable enough to be yourself and seen enough to trust the process. A strong image isn’t about vanity—it’s about clarity. It is the first impression that shapes how the world perceives you before you ever say a word.
The Personal Side
My journey includes a decade of single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and a national CBS News feature on the psychology of first impressions. But perhaps my favorite “proof of concept” is my own: I met my husband on Bumble at age 42. I’ve seen firsthand how a strategic, authentic online presence can transform your life and lead to real, aligned connection.
The Relocation (Dallas & Minneapolis)
End of April 2026, my family and I officially relocated to Dallas, Texas. While I am now locally serving the DFW Metroplex, the Twin Cities will always be a part of my story. I continue to offer my signature photography experience in Minneapolis–St. Paul through exclusive quarterly residency sessions.
When I’m not behind the lens, you’ll find me with my husband, my son, and our beautifully blended family, soaking up our new Texas life (and probably hunting for the best patio in Dallas).
If you’re here because you’re ready for photos that actually feel like you, you’re in the right place. I’m so glad you found your way here.
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