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I’m Shannon — a Twin Cities photographer and former single mom who discovered confidence (and connection) through updating her dating photos in her 40s.
This space is for the people ready to show up differently: daters, career-changers, seniors, and anyone stepping into a new chapter—or just finally seeing themselves clearly in photos.
From blogging about dating-app photo strategy and creative self-images to interviews, client features, and behind-the-scenes moments—this is where it all lives.

Help for modern daters, creatives, and career pivots


Welcome to the blog

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Ready to embrace self-expression through self-portrait photography? This is your LAST chance to access The Self-Portrait Masterclass before it’s gone forever on January 15, 2025—and it’s now available at an exclusive price of $47(originally $297)! Whether you’re an experienced photographer or a creative soul looking to capture your story, this course empowers you to create stunning self-portraits that celebrate your unique style, confidence, […]

Self-Expression Through Self-Portrait Photography – Final Sale Ends Jan 15, 2025!

How to Take Better Self-Portraits

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Embracing imperfection in self-portrait photography isn’t just about accepting flaws—it’s about discovering emotional depth, unlocking authentic self-expression, and finding beauty where you least expect it. This creative approach allows photographers to shift focus away from perfectionism and toward honest storytelling. Through my own journey—including a vulnerable and exhilarating live demo at the Elena S Blair Mastermind […]

Embracing Imperfection in Self-Portrait Photography and Self Expression

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In the quiet moments behind the lens, self-portrait photography becomes a mirror—not just to our image, but to our healing. Self-portrait therapy is more than snapping photos; it’s a transformative way of processing emotions, reconnecting with your body, and uncovering your inner story. When words feel heavy or hard to access, the camera can give us back […]

Self-Portrait Therapy: Finding Healing and Growth Through Photography

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Discover invaluable lessons that have reshaped my approach, capturing the true spirit of clients with authenticity and skill.

How Self-Portraits Elevated My Photography Game

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Ever felt that subtle sense of not entirely fitting in, even among those who share your creative spirit? Because I do. This paradox is a dance familiar to many creatives, resonating deeply with our innate longing for belonging. Join me on a creative journey through self-portraiture, where we explore the complexities of this sentiment—a universal […]

A Creative Journey through Self-Portraiture: Embracing Belonging

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Embarking on Your Journey to Self-Portrait Superpowers may seem like confronting an elephant in the room—the awkward feeling that arises when you think about getting in front of the camera. Trust me, I’ve been there! In most of my self-portraits, you’ll find me purposefully avoiding eye contact with the camera. 🙈(Scroll down my IG profile […]

Your Journey to Self-Portrait Superpowers: Embracing the Uncomfortable

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Self-portrait gear essentials are more than just tools—in fact, they’re creative companions that support your journey toward visual storytelling and self-discovery. Whether you’re just beginning your self-portrait journey or working to refine your craft further, the right self-portrait accessories and thoughtful techniques can completely transform your results. Ultimately, it’s not just what you shoot with—it’s how you use your […]

Self-Portrait Gear Essentials: Demystifying My Top Gear Choices for Creative Shots

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Have you ever looked into your own eyes through a lens and discovered someone you’d forgotten—or never met? Self-portraiture is more than just taking a photo—it’s a deeply personal journey of self-discovery. Through this expressive art form, you peel back the layers, embrace vulnerability, and reconnect with your true creative self. Each self-portrait becomes a mirror, […]

Self-Portraiture Magic: 7 Ways to Discover Your True Creative Self

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I LOVE SURPRISES!! It was just before Christmas and I decided to spoil myself with the latest issue of Bella Grace Magazine at my local Barnes & Noble book store. While waiting in the long checkout line, I was thumbing through the publications luxurious pages and as a result, I discovered myself in the magazine!! […]

A Surprise Publication –Bella Grace Magazine Issue 18

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The Creative Self-Portrait Experience: A way to explore yourself in every possible situation, to stimulate the creative process, to improve self-knowledge and self-esteem, thus empowering yourself. Along my photography journey I have discovered how passionate I am about female portraiture and creative self-portraits.  For many of us, we can feel overwhelmed by orders as to […]

Creative Self-Portraits (+ a freebie!)