Why do you mentor others?

One of my favorite things on the planet is serving others and giving them tools to live a more full and intentional life. Whether that is a revelation in a photographers workflow, or to even how you start your day. I want to get to the core of what matters in your life and build your work and life around that. I want to see you flourish, to live big! To smile and not be overwhelmed. I want to coach you into success and be your biggest cheerleader. This is why I do what I do.

Do I have to be a photographer to mentor with you?

No. I mentor all different sorts of awesome people. From photographers and business owners to mommas. It’s all about where your heart is.

Do I have to live in Minnesota to mentor with you?

No. Definitely not. My mentor clients live all over the United States.  We use great platforms like Google Hangout and Skype to do one on one mentoring.

Do we go through a workbook or certain set of content during a mentor session?

Each mentoring session is designed specifically for you. I tailor the session to what your needs are and we go from there. I send you a questionnaire that will help you decide where we would like to focus on during your session and we definitely can deviate from the plan if we need.

Do you take my photos during our mentor session?

A lifestyle headshot session is included in my half day and full day mentorship. I shoot lifestyle headshot sessions often and you can see many of those in my galleries as well.

I am a new photographer. Do you have any tips for me?

My two biggest pieces of advice is google dumb questions and invest in a mentor. I haven’t taken one class in photography, but early in my career I really invested my time and funds to mentor with photographers that inspired me. My investments really helped me grow and answered all the questions that I just couldn’t figure out online. Last tidbit of advice, just practice! As a good friend says, Go ugly early and don’t expect it all to be perfect. You will get it!

What kind of equipment do you use?

I shoot with a mix of Canon 5D bodies, currently the 5D Classic Mark I is a favorite and also my 5D Mark 3 . I also haveMark 2’s as backups.  I have a wide array of Canon lenses, including the 35mm f/1.4L, 50mm f/1.2L, 85mm f/1.2L, 135mm f/2 and 100mm f/2.8 macro. I love prime lenses. Nothing can beat them in my book. I do also own zoom lenses (16-35mm 2.8L & 70-200mm 2.8L). I really only use these on wedding days if needed. My most used lens is a toss up between my beloved 35mm f/1.4L and the 50mm f/1.2L. When additional lighting is necessary (eg. at receptions) I Canon 580EX II flashes and AlienBees if needed. I shoot on 8GB  & 16GB Sandisk CF Cards.

What programs do you use to edit?

I first bring my images in through Photomechanic, which is the best money I have ever spent! I shoot all images in RAW and I love Visual Supply Co’s presets. Then I bring my images in Adobe Photoshop for a little bit more finnesse.

This all sounds awesome and exactly what I need, what’s next?

Contact me! I can’t wait to learn more about you and how I can help and serve you through mentoring.