THE NEXT CHAPTER | YOUR SENIOR YEAR
Dear upcoming graduates:
As you prepare to launch into a new world of independence after high school, I want you to know that no matter your circumstances in life – where you live, the family you were born into, what happened to you as a young child that was beyond your control – NOW is the time to step forward into your own true self and begin the next chapter of life that is truly yours for the making.
It is so easy to gloss over the transitional periods in our lives and look forward to our arrival at the next chapter. But this chapter, the one right between your childhood accomplishments and your big dreams, is one that deserves to be documented in a way that’s all you.
“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.”
— Steve Jobs
My Senior sessions are created so you can settle in and get comfortable in front of the camera, while expressing yourself through different outfits and locations. My goal is always to let your personality shine through 🙂
Senior portraits don’t have to be stressful! We can have fun! Yes, FUN! No manufactured moments. All of my on-location sessions are spontaneous and unplanned. We’ll glide through your session naturally and have a an amazing time doing it! Not sure about an outfit or a location? Let’s handle this process together! I am here to help!
The following images are of a 2017 High School Graduate, Erin 🙂
Erin has big dreams and a bright future ahead. She has the drive and passion to become an Environmental Engineer and make her footprint on the world. For Erin’s session last month we ventured around Lowertown St. Paul. As we walked along in search of unique and inspiring areas to stop and take some images we talked … This young woman has a heart of gold and she will make a difference in this world 🙂 I wish her all the luck on her next chapter.
“Last but not least, I would say you should have big dreams, full dreams, not half dreams. You know, it’s very simple. You can’t put a large box in a small box. Well, you cannot put a full life in a small dream box. ”
— Elias Zerhouni
Know a senior graduating?
Please send them my way! 🙂
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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