Most people land here because their dating profile isn’t getting the response they expect — even though it looks “fine.”
Most people land here because their dating profile isn’t getting the response they expect — even though it looks “fine” on the surface.
“Does our purpose on Earth directly link to the people whom we end up meeting? Are our relationships and experiences actually the required dots that connect and then lead us to our ultimate destinies?”
— Jennifer Elisabeth

I believe there is some sort of link between us and the people we end up meeting, that we meet everyone for a reason. It may be days, months, or even years until we realize why we met a certain someone or why we crossed paths with specific people, but I like to think there is a reason for it all.
Just like in this image, we all live these parallel lives that eventually end up meeting together or crossing paths at some point, and as a result you get this amazingly connected and satisfying feeling that fades into the beauty of life…. is that where our destiny lies?
Is that when we can finally see it? Is it not until we actually accept that our relationships and experiences here on Earth are the dots that connect and then lead us to our ultimate destinies?

People we meet make great mirrors. If we pay close enough attention and stop to think about our interactions with others, we can learn a lot about ourselves.
For instance, I have always believed that we continue to keep encountering difficult people because it is us (ourselves) that need to learn how to react (or the response of not reacting) to their difficultness.
I also believe that when we see something we do not like in another person it is actually something that we ourselves need to work on as well… they are a small reminder for us to continue to work on this something within ourselves.
Acceptance and being open to seeing that others are our mirrors allows us to feel more comfortable and at ease around these “difficult people” and with ourselves 🙂

“Although many things may still need to happen before you identify what your exact work will be, I know that every single person whom you’re meeting and every experience that you’re having is necessary to you discovering your purpose. They are points on a map leading you to the moment where a match will finally be lit and you will be able to see through the darkness.”
— Jennifer Elisabeth
I believe there is a meaning in most everything that happens. Look for the little things and search for those deeper meanings. Be awake. Remain awake. There will be a match and you will see.

“Sometimes you have to let go a little bit and travel the path of least resistance but this doesn’t mean that you quit when things get tough, as you are working towards a goal! It just means that you may only be able to see a rough draft of your final destination, right now, and that it’s safe to explore along the way.”
— Jennifer Elisabeth

That simple quote is so profound. Many times it is very easy to get caught up in the current of life and then we forget (some don’t realize) that we hold this power to finding our ultimate destiny.
Step back to the edge of this tidal motion of life and pause. Look around you and take notice of your actions, your words, others actions, and others words. Stop trying to be less of who you are. Then dive back into this crazy world of ours and get after it 😉 Be the person you want to be and maybe, just maybe you’ll inspire someone to do the same.
“Don’t worry if people think you’re crazy. You are crazy. You have that kind of intoxicating insanity that lets other people dream outside of the lines and become who they’re destined to be.”
— Jennifer Elisabeth

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.
July 26, 2017

Twin Cities Online Dating & Branding Photographer
Helping singles feel confident, seen, and chosen.
Serving Minneapolis–St. Paul through Spring 2026
Travel sessions available nationwide • Dallas launching May 2026
Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN
Edina • Eagan • Maple Grove
Woodbury • White Bear Lake & beyond
Dallas–Fort Worth (Launching May 2026)
Trusted by Twin Cities singles using Bumble, Hinge & OurTime
hello@shannonkathleenphotography.com
Twin Cities online dating photographer helping Minneapolis–St. Paul singles create dating photos that work.
As seen on CBS News / WCCO, Bella Grace & Newsbreak
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Confidence, prompts, photo advice, and modern dating insight — delivered simply.
Love all the quotes in this post. You are amazing 😉
Thank you so much Aubrey!! 🙂