What’s with this word?? Well, this year a group of photography friends and I each decided to pick one word to focus on for 2018, whether it had to do with life in general or photography or both.
Picking one word for the year is designed to move us beyond the cycle of the litany of imperfections to be perfected in the “New Year”. This experiment is to challenge us to lose the long list of changes we want to make and to instead make this the year we pick ONE WORD to focus on.
When I stumbled upon the word Querencia, it truly resonated with me! I had been telling myself for a few months that I really need to continue to work on remaining true and authentic to myself in my personal life and especially in my photography business life … as weird, wacky, and out of the box that may be 😉
I literally woke up on New Years Day with this vision in mind … I crawled right out of bed, set up my camera next to my bedroom window, put a dark sheet on my wall, then got loose, wacky, and weird! I even did a “I’m a little tea pot” motion … hahaha! (See the images below)
I have joined up with a few of the most amazingly talented women to start a 10 on 10 Blog — We will each be writing and posting a blog showcasing 10 images on the 10th of every month. This is designed this so you can loop through all the group members to see their AWESOME work too!! NOW if you would like to see what these marvelous women have been up to, start by heading over to the incredible Emilee of Emilee Rose Films!!! OHMYGOODNESS her lifestyle work is outstanding!! And maybe you should also follow her on Facebook 😉
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Oh hey there, nice to meet you!
I’m Shannon, a Twin Cities-based (soon-to-be Dallas, TX!) photographer specializing in online dating profile photography, personal branding photography, business headshots, and senior portraits. Whether you’re updating your dating apps, refreshing your LinkedIn profile, building your business brand, or celebrating a senior year milestone, I create natural light portraits that boost confidence and help you stand out — authentically.
With 15+ years of experience — and a personal journey from single mom to entrepreneur (and a CBS feature along the way) — I know the power of a photograph to tell your story. From attracting more meaningful matches, landing dream clients, or marking life’s big moments, I create relaxed, real portraits that feel like you while making a lasting first impression.
I’m also the creator of the Empowered Evolution Mentorship Program for photographers, where I teach creative entrepreneurs how to build profitable photography businesses through intentional marketing, SEO strategies, and streamlined workflows.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me with my husband, my son, and our beautifully blended family, savoring life’s everyday moments here in Minneapolis–St. Paul (at least for now!). We’re relocating to Dallas, Texas in 2026 — and I’ll soon be offering my signature branding and dating photography experience in the DFW area.
📸 Ready for natural photos that actually feel like you? Whether you need dating photos, professional headshots, or personal branding portraits, I’ll guide you every step of the way so you feel confident and aligned with your next chapter. Let’s book your session today.
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Your weird is fabulous Shannon!! So excited to be part of this circle with you and see more of your amazing creativity! Thank you for sharing your art. <3
Oh my goodness shannon! You are crazy talented!! I love these!
These are so cool!
SO incredibly stunning my dear amazing friend!! You are such an inspiration and I just love you to the moon and back!
I’m in awe! Love your work, love your words and I have already learned so much about things I need to work on just from scrolling through your site. Excited to get to know you more!