A MODEL BEAUTY
A COLLABORATIVE LIFESTYLE PHOTO SHOOT BY SHANNON KATHLEEN PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURING mary.so.contrary
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.
Enjoy the following images!
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, 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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