A Conversation with Self-Portrait Photographer, Shannon O'Malley

Amit Ahuja
Sep 25, 2024
20 min read

Updated: Apr 27

I recently had a chance to chat with Shannon O'Malley, a self-portrait photographer based in Minnesota. We explored her artistic path and delved into the intricacies of her photography business. I think you'll find the discussion both insightful and engaging.

AA: Hello Shannon, could you tell us about your background?

SO: From an early age, I’ve always been captivated by storytelling. I found that a photograph could tell a story more powerfully than words. Growing up in Minnesota, I was surrounded by the beauty of nature, family moments, and life’s little milestones, which inspired me to pick up a camera. I wanted to capture those fleeting, meaningful moments—whether it was the way the light hit a subject’s face or the raw emotions exchanged in a candid moment.

AA: What inspired you to pursue photography as a career?

SO: Photography began as a passion, but it also became a practical solution as I balanced being a full-time working mom. As a single mother, I was always looking for ways to not only express my creativity but also support my family. Photography offered a flexible and rewarding way to earn extra income while doing something I loved.

SO: It started as a side hustle, capturing portraits for friends and family, but quickly grew into something much more. As I transitioned into professional photography, I realized how fulfilling it was to build relationships with my clients, make them feel comfortable, and ensure that they look and feel their best. Now, photography allows me the flexibility to be present for my child and my new husband while also pursuing a career that I’m passionate about.

SO: Today, I focus on capturing everything from dating profile portraits to family milestones, knowing that each session is an opportunity to create timeless images that my clients will treasure for generations.

AA: How did you become interested in pursuing self-portrait photography?

SO: I became interested in self-portrait photography as a way to connect more deeply with both my craft and myself. Initially, it started as a means to experiment with lighting, posing, and composition, without the pressure of working with a client. I could take my time, test new techniques, and refine my skills while being my own subject. As I progressed, it became more than just a technical exercise—it evolved into a form of self-expression and a way to tell my personal story.

SO: As a single mom working full-time, photography was my creative outlet, and self-portraiture allowed me to explore how I was feeling during certain stages of life. Whether it was moments of strength, vulnerability, or empowerment, being in front of the camera helped me see myself in a new way and channel those emotions into my work. It became a form of visual journaling, where I could document my journey both personally and professionally.

SO: Through this process, I gained a new perspective on how my clients might feel in front of the camera. It helped me develop empathy and a better understanding of how to make people feel comfortable and confident during their sessions.

SO: Ultimately, it allowed me to grow as both an artist and a photographer, using self-portraits to explore new creative boundaries while helping my clients connect more authentically with the camera.

AA: What type of self-portrait photography style do you specialize in, and how does it set you apart from other portrait photographers?

SO: I specialize in a style of self-portrait photography that focuses on storytelling, emotion, and authenticity. My approach is a blend of natural, lifestyle-driven imagery with a fine-art touch. I aim to capture genuine emotions and moments of introspection rather than just static poses. Whether I’m exploring themes of empowerment, vulnerability, or joy, each self-portrait is meant to tell a story that reflects where I am emotionally or creatively at that point in time.

SO: What sets my self-portrait photography apart is the deep emotional connection I strive to convey. As someone who values both the technical and emotive sides of photography, I aim to make my self-portraits feel relatable to others—whether it’s through the use of moody lighting, raw expressions, or carefully chosen settings that reflect my personal experiences. I often shoot in natural light and everyday environments, adding a sense of realism and connection to the final image.

SO: This emotional depth, combined with my use of natural elements and storytelling, allows me to create portraits that go beyond just aesthetics. It’s about using photography as a medium for self-reflection and personal growth, while also creating work that resonates with viewers on an emotional level.

Additionally, my experience as both the photographer and the subject has given me a unique perspective. I understand the vulnerability of being in front of the camera, and this helps me guide my clients through their own portraits, helping them feel seen and understood. This duality in my work is what I believe makes my style distinct in the world of portrait photography.

AA: What style of photography do you like the least and why? Could you please share the reasons behind your dislike for this particular style of photography?

SO: While I appreciate the skill and creativity that goes into every form of photography, one style that resonates the least with me is heavily staged or overly artificial photography—especially in portrait sessions. By this, I mean photography that relies heavily on forced poses, unnatural backdrops, and overly retouched images where the final product feels disconnected from the subject's true personality.

SO: For me, photography is about capturing real, raw emotions and telling a story through the lens, so I find it challenging to connect with styles that prioritize perfection over authenticity. I feel that when a photo is too contrived, it loses the genuine connection and emotion that can make an image truly special. Photography, in my view, should allow people to feel seen, not manufactured.

SO: This doesn’t mean that posed photography doesn’t have its place—there’s certainly value in it for editorial work, fashion, and certain professional environments. However, for the type of work I do, particularly with families, seniors, or dating profiles, I find that natural, candid moments often hold more weight and depth.

SO: In short, my preference leans heavily toward organic and genuine imagery, where the subject’s true self shines through. When photos are overly edited or lack that emotional connection, I feel it can dilute the very essence of what makes photography so powerful.

AA: What professional photographers have influenced your work, and how do you incorporate their techniques into your photographs?

SO: Several professional photographers have greatly influenced my work, both in terms of style and approach.

Annie Leibovitz – Her ability to capture powerful emotions and tell a story through her images has always inspired me. I admire how she combines raw human expression with dramatic, almost cinematic lighting. I strive to incorporate storytelling into my sessions, whether it's through the way I position clients or by creating an atmosphere where their emotions can shine
through authentically.
Sue Bryce – Known for her elegant, fine-art portraits, Bryce's work has had a big impact on how I approach both my maternity and senior sessions. Her use of natural light and her attention to posing that flatters each individual have taught me how to make my clients feel confident and beautiful, while also creating timeless images that they’ll treasure.
Jasmine Star – I admire her emphasis on personal branding and creating a connection with clients. She brings an authenticity and realness to her photography that resonates with me. She’s taught me how important it is to make people feel at ease during a session, which in turn allows me to capture their true essence.

AA: How long do your photo sessions typically last when working with your clients?

SO: My photo sessions vary in length depending on the type of session and the needs of the client. Here’s a breakdown of typical session times:

Online Dating Portraits: These sessions typically last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. The timing depends on the package chosen, the number of outfits, and the variety of locations we decide to shoot in. I like to take the time to ensure we capture the perfect range of images to represent your authentic self.
Senior Portraits: Senior sessions usually run about 2 hours. This gives us plenty of time to explore different outfits, settings, and poses to showcase your personality as you celebrate this important milestone.
Family, Newborn, and Maternity Sessions: These sessions generally last around 1 hour. During this time, we focus on capturing genuine moments and emotions, whether it's the anticipation of welcoming a new baby, celebrating family connections, or documenting the beauty of motherhood.

Each session is designed to provide a comfortable, laid-back experience while allowing for a comprehensive set of high-quality images.

AA: What is the difference between a mini-session and a complete family portrait session?

SO: The primary difference between a mini-session and a complete family portrait session comes down to time, scope, and depth of the experience.

Mini-Session:

Duration: Typically, 15-30 minutes, designed to be quick and efficient.
Fewer Images: You get fewer final images, usually focusing on a small selection of shots, and there is often little time for wardrobe changes or multiple locations.
Quick Setup: These sessions tend to be pre-planned with set locations and themes, offering less flexibility for personal touches or capturing candid, authentic moments.

SO: Because mini-sessions are shorter, I find they don't always allow enough time to build rapport and get those genuine, heartfelt interactions that I love to capture. The goal is to provide a quicker, budget-friendly option, but it can feel rushed.

Complete Family Portrait Session:

Duration: Typically, around 1 hour, which allows for a more relaxed pace.
More Images: You receive a more comprehensive gallery with a wider variety of shots, capturing different moods, interactions, and settings.
Personalized Experience: These sessions are fully customizable, with more time for location changes, wardrobe adjustments, and candid moments that reflect the authentic dynamics of your family.

SO: In a complete session, I have the time to get to know the family, ensure everyone feels comfortable, and create those authentic, emotional images that reflect your family's unique bond.

SO: In short, while mini sessions offer a quick snapshot, a complete session allows for a deeper, more meaningful experience, where we can truly capture the heart of your family.

AA: When deciding on pricing for my photography services, I consider several key factors to ensure my rates reflect both the value I offer and the needs of my clients:

SO:

1. Cost of Doing Business:

Time and Expenses: I factor in the time it takes for consultations, the session itself, editing, and final delivery. I also account for business expenses such as equipment, software, marketing, insurance, and travel.
Materials: For services that include physical products, like prints or albums, the cost of producing and delivering those items is calculated into the final price.

2. Client Experience:

All-Inclusive Services: My packages are designed to provide a seamless experience from start to finish. The more comprehensive the service (like maternity or family sessions with wardrobe consultations, location scouting, and personalized albums), the higher the rate to reflect the value and time commitment.
Time Involved: Longer sessions, like full family or senior portraits, require more planning, editing, and deliverables than shorter mini-sessions, so the pricing reflects that additional time.

3. Market Research:

I evaluate what other photographers in my area and niche are charging to ensure my pricing is competitive while also aligning with the high quality of service I provide. I aim to offer rates that match my skill level and experience without undervaluing my work or pricing myself out of the market.

4. Value and Expertise:

Experience and Specialization: As a photographer with years of experience in capturing everything from senior portraits to newborn sessions, I price my services to reflect the expertise and value I bring to each session. This includes the personalized touch and creative vision that go into every project.
Client Results: I think about the lasting value I provide through my images—timeless, meaningful memories that clients will cherish. The emotional and artistic value of these photographs is factored into my pricing.

5. Flexibility for Add-Ons:

I also offer add-on services, such as styling consultations or print packages, that clients can choose to enhance their experience. These optional add-ons allow for flexible pricing while giving clients the opportunity to personalize their package.

Ultimately, I strike a balance between covering my costs, reflecting my expertise, and ensuring that my clients feel they are getting high value for their investment. This way, I can provide a high-quality experience without compromising on the time and effort it takes to create meaningful images.

AA: How do you make a client feel comfortable?

SO: Creating a comfortable atmosphere for my clients is one of my top priorities because I believe that the best photos come from people who feel relaxed and confident. Here’s how I approach it:

Building Rapport: Before the session even begins, I take the time to chat with my clients. Whether it’s via email, phone, or an in-person consultation, I want to get to know them. This helps break the ice and allows us to connect on a personal level. By the time the shoot starts, it feels more like spending time with a friend than a photographer.
Guidance & Reassurance: I don’t expect my clients to know exactly how to pose or act in front of the camera. That’s my job! Throughout the session, I offer gentle guidance and reassurance, showing them how to stand, move, and relax in ways that look natural. I also encourage them to embrace candid moments, which often leads to the most authentic and beautiful images.
Positive Feedback: During the shoot, I constantly offer positive feedback. If a pose or expression looks great, I make sure they know it. This builds confidence and helps them feel comfortable being themselves.
Creating a Relaxed Environment: Whether I’m working with a family, a senior, or someone for their online dating profile, I aim to keep the atmosphere light and fun. I’ll often crack jokes or engage them in conversation about something they enjoy to keep the mood relaxed.

AA: How do you deal with a client who is unhappy with their photos?

SO: Thankfully, this situation is rare, but if a client is ever unhappy with their photos, I handle it with empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to making things right.

Listening and Understanding: The first step is to listen carefully to their concerns without being defensive. I want to fully understand what they don’t like and why. Whether it’s about the lighting, the editing, or the posing, I need to know their perspective so I can address it.
Offering Solutions: Once I understand their concerns, I’ll offer a solution. This could involve re-editing a few images to better suit their preferences or offering to reshoot certain parts of the session, especially if something didn’t go as planned. My goal is to ensure the client is satisfied with the final product.
Maintaining Open Communication: I always make sure to keep the lines of communication open, so the client feels comfortable voicing any issues. My priority is to ensure they feel heard and that we work together to create images they love.
Learning from Feedback: Even though it’s tough to hear that a client isn’t happy, I use these situations as opportunities to learn and improve. I reflect on what could have been done differently and incorporate that into my workflow moving forward.

AA: Please describe a challenging photo shoot you experienced and how you overcame the obstacles.

SO: One of the most challenging photo shoots I experienced was an outdoor family session in early spring here in Minnesota. The weather is always unpredictable during that time, and on the day of the shoot, the temperature suddenly dropped, and the wind picked up drastically. The family had young children, which added to the challenge because they were feeling the cold even more than the adults, making it hard to keep everyone comfortable and engaged.

SO: The first step I took to overcome this was communication and reassurance. I let the family know we could take breaks to warm up, and I kept the session light-hearted to avoid stress, especially for the kids. I also worked quickly to capture key shots before everyone got too cold.

SO: I changed up my usual approach by focusing on more dynamic shots that allowed the family to move around—this kept them warmer and made the session feel like more of a fun activity. We played little games like “run to mom and dad,” and those candid moments turned out to be some of the best shots.

SO: Despite the harsh conditions, the images turned out beautifully, with genuine smiles and warm family moments. It was a reminder that flexibility, quick thinking, and making sure the clients feel taken care of are key to overcoming challenges in any photo shoot. This experience also taught me that some of the most unexpected conditions can lead to the most authentic and heartfelt images.

AA: Given the choice, do you find more fulfillment and satisfaction in pursuing photography as a profession compared to your previous 9-5 job?

SO: Absolutely. While my 9-5 job provided stability, there’s a level of fulfillment that photography brings that I never experienced in the corporate world. Photography allows me to connect with people on a deeper, more personal level—capturing real emotions and stories. Being able to help families, individuals, and couples preserve moments they’ll cherish forever is incredibly rewarding.

SO: Photography also offers me the creative freedom to express myself in ways that I wasn’t able to in a traditional job. Every session is different, and I love the challenge of bringing someone’s vision to life while also leaving my creative mark on it.

SO: Moreover, as a single mom, photography gave me the flexibility I needed to spend more time with my son while still pursuing my passion and supplementing my income. It's been an amazing journey, and being able to turn my side hustle into a successful full-time career has been life-changing. The sense of satisfaction I get from creating meaningful work that impacts others is something that a 9-5 just couldn't provide me with.

AA: Can you tell us more about your "Unleash Your Inner Artist: Master the Art of Self-Portrait Photography" program?

SO: The Self-Portrait Masterclass" is a comprehensive program designed to guide individuals through the process of mastering self-portrait photography. Whether you're a photographer looking to hone your skills or someone who simply wants to explore their creative side, this course is tailored to help you express yourself through imagery.

SO: The course covers everything from the technical aspects, like camera settings and lighting, to the more personal side, like posing, storytelling, and building confidence in front of the camera. What sets this program apart is that it’s not just about taking photos—it’s about exploring your personal story and creativity through the lens. I teach participants how to use self-portraits as a form of self-expression, reflection, and growth.

Participants will learn:

How to set up your camera for self-portraits, even if you're working alone.
Creative ways to use lighting, angles, and locations to capture the essence of your story.
Techniques to feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
Posing tips and how to embrace both your strengths and imperfections to create authentic, beautiful images.
The importance of storytelling in self-portrait photography and how to convey emotion through your photos.

Throughout the course, I provide personal feedback, exercises, and resources to help students tap into their inner artist and create images that resonate with them. This course is perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers looking to challenge themselves creatively.

Ultimately, “The Self-Portrait Masterclass” is about more than just photography—it’s about building confidence, capturing authenticity, and seeing yourself through a new lens.

AA: What does success look like for you as an artist?

SO: For me, success as an artist goes beyond just producing beautiful images. It’s about creating work that resonates emotionally with the people I photograph, helping them feel seen and valued. Success is when my clients look at their photos and see more than just an image—they see a memory, a milestone, or a part of their story that’s been authentically captured.

SO: In more practical terms, success is about building lasting relationships with my clients, many of whom return for multiple sessions as their families grow or as they experience new life stages. It’s also about pushing my creative boundaries, continuously learning, and exploring new ways to tell stories through my work.

SO: Ultimately, success as an artist is when I am able to balance creativity with a thriving business that allows me to support my family, while doing what I love every day. If I can continue to create meaningful images that touch people’s lives, that’s success for me.

AA: What message or emotions do you hope to convey through your photography?

SO: Through my photography, I strive to convey a message of authenticity, connection, and timelessness. Whether I'm capturing a senior stepping into a new chapter of life, a family’s deep bonds, or the excitement of welcoming a newborn, my goal is to create images that are not only beautiful but also filled with genuine emotion.

SO: I want my clients to see themselves as they truly are—confident, joyful, and full of life. At the same time, I aim to preserve these moments in a way that will resonate for generations. There’s a certain vulnerability and openness in letting someone capture your story, and I want that to come through in my work: a celebration of life’s imperfect, fleeting, and deeply personal moments.

SO: In each photograph, I hope to evoke emotions of warmth, love, and nostalgia, helping my clients feel a sense of pride and happiness when they reflect on these moments. Ultimately, I want my work to be a reminder of the connections that matter most—whether it’s the bond between family members or the story of an individual’s journey.

AA: Describe one of your best photos and what makes it great.

SO: One of my best photos is this self-portrait taken in my bedroom (shown below). What makes this image stand out is how it captures a raw and authentic moment in the most natural of settings. I shot this during a quiet moment, allowing myself to feel completely free and uninhibited.

SO: The soft natural light streaming through the window enhances the mood of the photo, casting gentle rays across the frame. The positioning of my legs and arms creates an intentional yet spontaneous feel, as if caught mid-dance, which gives the image an artistic yet relaxed vibe. The surrounding shadows and muted colors also contribute to the emotional depth of the image, making it feel intimate and personal.

SO: The reason why I believe this photograph is one of my best is due to the combination of vulnerability, artistry, and technical execution. It allows the viewer to step into a private moment and experience the peace and beauty of quiet self-reflection. It’s these elements—authenticity, subtlety, and the play between light and dark—that, for me, define what a great photograph should convey.

AA: What do you consider your strengths? What are your weaknesses?

SO: Strengths: One of my greatest strengths as a photographer is my ability to create authentic connections with my clients, which allows me to capture genuine emotions and natural moments in my photos. This connection helps my clients feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera, leading to images that truly reflect who they are. Another strength is my artistic approach to lighting and composition, which allows me to create images with depth, emotion, and a distinct style.

SO: Additionally, I consider my attention to detail to be a major strength. I am meticulous in the way I compose my shots, select locations, and edit images, ensuring that every aspect of the photo adds to its overall story. I also pride myself on my flexibility and creativity, always open to experimenting with new angles, techniques, and ideas that set my work apart.

SO: Weaknesses: A challenge I face is balancing the creative and business sides of photography. As an artist, I love focusing on the creative aspects, but managing the business—such as administrative tasks, marketing, and pricing—can sometimes be overwhelming.

SO: Another weakness is my tendency to be overly critical of my work. While being detail-oriented is a strength, it can also lead to spending excessive time perfecting images. I’ve had to learn to trust my initial instincts and not get stuck in the cycle of over-editing or second-guessing my choices.

SO: Lastly, I sometimes struggle with saying no to new projects or clients, even when my schedule is already full. This can lead to burnout, so I’m continuously working on setting better boundaries to protect my creative energy and ensure I’m delivering the best results for every client.

AA: If you could have dinner with any photographer, alive or dead, who would it be, and what might you ask them?

SO: If I could have dinner with any photographer, it would be Annie Leibovitz. Not only is she one of the most iconic portrait photographers of our time, but her ability to tell stories through imagery and capture the essence of her subjects is something I deeply admire.

SO: During dinner, I would ask her about her thought process in crafting those larger-than-life yet intimate portraits, such as her work with celebrities, world leaders, and cultural figures. Specifically, I'd love to know:

SO: How she connects so deeply with her subjects and makes them comfortable, even in highly staged or grandiose settings.

SO: How she balances artistic direction with capturing authentic moments in portraits. What her approach is when tackling complex lighting and composition in varied, challenging environments.

SO: I’d also ask about her evolution from documentary-style photography to more stylized editorial shoots and how she maintains creativity while navigating commercial constraints.

SO: Lastly, I’d love to hear about her personal journey as a female photographer in a competitive field and how she manages to keep pushing boundaries in her work over decades.

SO: Her career has been filled with risks, innovation, and storytelling—traits that I try to incorporate into my work, and I'd love to hear her insights firsthand.

AA: Explain three ways to use light to create a powerful photo.

Here are three impactful ways to use light to create a powerful photo:

1. Backlighting for Drama and Silhouettes

Backlighting involves positioning the main light source behind your subject, which can create striking silhouettes or glowing edges, adding depth and emotion to your photos. This technique works well during golden hour (just before sunset or after sunrise), as the soft light creates warmth and drama. Backlighting also highlights textures like hair or fabric, giving the image a dreamy, ethereal quality. For silhouettes, you can expose for the sky, creating high contrast between the dark subject and the bright background.

2. Side Lighting for Depth and Dimension

Side lighting, where the light comes from a 90-degree angle to the subject, enhances texture and depth in a photo by creating contrast between light and shadows. This technique is especially effective in portrait photography, as it sculpts the subject’s face and body, giving the image more character and dimension. Side lighting is also ideal for still life or landscape photography, where it adds a sense of texture and mood, emphasizing the details that might otherwise be missed.

3. Soft Diffused Light for Natural, Flattering Portraits

Diffused light, which scatters light evenly across the subject, reduces harsh shadows and softens features. This type of light is perfect for creating flattering portraits, as it smooths skin tones and brings out natural beauty. Overcast days provide naturally diffused light, but you can also create it using reflectors, light modifiers, or shooting in shaded areas. This technique is ideal for minimizing distractions and focusing on the subject’s expression and emotional presence.

These lighting techniques, when applied with intent, can dramatically enhance the mood, texture, and depth of a photo, making it more emotionally compelling and visually striking.

AA: What are your favorite locations to make art with your camera?

SO: My favorite locations to make art with my camera tend to be places that offer a mix of natural beauty, texture, and soft lighting. Here are a few top choices:

At-Home Sessions: There’s something intimate and raw about capturing moments in someone’s home, where they feel most comfortable. The familiar setting brings out genuine emotions and allows me to play with natural light coming through windows and doors, making the images feel both personal and artistic.
Open Fields at Golden Hour: Open fields, especially during the golden hour, provide the perfect backdrop for family sessions, senior portraits, or even self-portraits. The soft light of the setting sun casts a beautiful warm glow, while the wide, unobstructed space creates a sense of freedom and calm that shines through in the photos.
Urban Settings with Unique Architecture: I also enjoy shooting in urban environments with lots of texture, like brick walls, old buildings, or alleyways. These locations offer contrast, depth, and an edgy vibe, which I love to incorporate into portrait sessions, especially for dating profiles or senior portraits.
Lakes and Forests in Minnesota: Living in Minnesota, I’m spoiled with access to picturesque lakes and dense forests. I love capturing maternity or family sessions by the water or within a forest setting, using nature’s organic elements to tell a story of connection and peace.

What’s great about all of these locations is their versatility—each one offers something unique that can be adapted to the client’s story and the mood I want to create.

AA: What would you say if you had the world's attention for 5 minutes?

SO: If I had the world's attention for five minutes, I'd use that time to talk about the power of authentic connection, the beauty of vulnerability, and the importance of embracing your unique story. Too often, we are caught in a cycle of comparison, social media highlight reels, and unrealistic expectations. I would encourage everyone to step back from that and realize that who you are, in your most genuine form, is enough—and that the world needs your voice, your story.

SO: I’d emphasize the power of kindness and empathy, how taking small moments to truly listen and connect with others can change lives. We often underestimate how our words and actions, even the smallest ones, can leave lasting impressions.

SO: Lastly, I would remind people to find and follow their passions. In the chaos of life, it’s easy to lose sight of what lights us up. We all have something inside us that drives us—whether it’s art, advocacy, science, or service—and that thing is what the world needs from you.

SO: In short, I’d encourage the world to slow down, appreciate each moment, and be brave enough to be themselves while showing kindness to others and the earth.

AA: Shannon, I appreciate you sharing a lot about yourself and your photography

journey! I wish you the best of luck in all your future pursuits!