3 weeks ago I received a private message on Instagram from a model beauty named Mary asking me if I was available that day for a collaborative lifestyle photo session. She just happened to be in the area visiting from Arizona. I inquired with her how she discovered me and she stated she found me through the hashtag #stpaulphotographer on Instagram 🙂 So, keep hash tagging people!! You just never know what opportunity may arise because of it 🙂
At first I didn’t know what to think because now a days you never know if someone is trying to trick you!! But, I did my research on her personal Instagram profile and she seemed legit 😉
We both took a risk meeting up … and to our delight, neither of us turned out to be a creepy man trying to catfish the other 😉
Mary wanted her session to take place in St. Paul, MN. She was looking to have images taken in a downtown setting and in a St. Paul neighborhood. I suggested Lower-town St. Paul, MN for our city shots and then the neighborhoods along Summit Avenue in St. Paul, MN
This girl was an absolute dream to work with!! We spent the golden hours of the evening walking around intertwining her beauty along with natures beauty.
All color images edited using SMAL Rose presets by www.svenmalojlo.de/presets
Black and White images edited using the “Glory” preset by http://pppsactionsandmore.bigcartel.com/product/whole-store-sale or the Black 06 preset by http://tribearchipelago.com/product/lxc/

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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