Minnesota Discovery
A Magazine Cover: COVER BOY
This past August I found out that an image of mine that I took of my boy won the Make it Minnesota Instagram photo contest sponsored by The Works Museum in Bloomington, MN!! 🙂
As part of my win I not only received a family membership to the Museum, my image also landed the COVER of the August Discovery issue magazine!!
The Instagram contest was all about discovering curiosity through imaginative photography. In this contest, they encouraged Minnesota photographers to challenge their creative boundaries by capturing moments that celebrate learning, exemplify curiosity, and explore the depths of imagination.
My winning image!
Thank you SO MUCH Make it Minnesota and The Works Museum!!
For this photograph, I held a fern leaf over him as he had his face to the sun. As usual, he was a willing participant 😉
ABOUT MAKE IT MINNESOTA
“Make It Minnesota is bi-quarterly magazine featuring Minnesota Creatives across our northern state. Our goal is to promote a vibrant, localized Minnesota economy.”
What they are saying about this Discovery issue:
“Every story is a rare glimpse into the beautiful diversity of curiosity that exists right here in Minnesota! Dive in to learn more about Franconia Sculpture Park, Seed Sages, June Wunrow, WAAM Industries, Arlee Park, and Beatty Stone Farms. Also featured is a curated list of local favorites by Hayley Matthews-Jones, founder of MPLS Craft Market – this list includes 112 Eatery, Tbsp. liège waffles, Ginger Bean Clothing, Cuchara Chick, Lawless Distilling, Minnesota Children’s Museum, and the Minnehaha Mile! From there, we are also proud to feature recipes from Betsy Nelson, AKA That Food Girl and the winners of the ‘Capturing Curiosity’ Instagram Contest sponsored by The Works Museum.”
Order your very own copy of the Discover Issue! “In each issue of Make It Minnesota, we aim to be a different kind of publication, one that feels like a collective effort created by members of our own communities. A magazine that engages us and connects us with our local makers and artists. It celebrates ideas, innovation, and authenticity. We invite you to join us!”
ENJOYING OUR ISSUE
Yesterday we set out to relish in the beautiful MN fall day and read through the magazine. Here are some images I captured of my son enjoying his 5 minutes of fame 😉
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.
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This is so fantastic, Shannon! Loving this series. I bet he is super proud.
Thank you so much Angee!!! 😊. He is SUPER proud! ❤️