WELCOME to the JOURNAL

A common question I get from clients inquiring about a maternity session is: Can I include my older kids in my maternity photos? The answer is a big, resounding YES! The arrival of a new baby is a celebration for the whole family, and family maternity photos are the perfect way to document the anticipation. […]

Listen, there are about a thousand books out there telling you how to start a photography business. If you’re planning to start a photography business in 2023, chances are you’ve read the books, watched all the Youtube videos, and have a pretty good idea of where to start. But today, I want to share the […]

If you’re hoping to sign your children up for swim lessons in Portland this year, you’re not alone. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children may start swim classes as early as age 1, and in a city as family-friendly as Portland, that’s a whole lot of kids looking for a great pool this […]

Are you planning outdoor family portraits? Whether you’re envisioning your family in a field of wildflowers or in a grove of oak trees, outdoor family portraits can showcase your family at your best. After all, some of your best family memories are of outdoor adventures. Why not take family portraits outside? With a little planning […]

If you’re a professional photographer, you’re probably juggling a lot. Keeping track of multiple clients, all at different stages of their experience with you, is a huge undertaking! I’ve tried so many different ways of managing my photography workflow over the years, but the one that’s been working best for me lately is Trello. I […]

So you’re a new photographer, and you’ve got your first photoshoot lined up. What now? How can you make sure it goes smoothly? If you’re wondering how to prepare for a photoshoot, I’ve rounded up my best tips for new photographers that you can use to make sure your photoshoot goes well. How to Prepare […]

Looking to spend some time this spring getting out and exploring photography in Portland? Whether you’re looking for a photography class, a stellar photography exhibition, or a date night idea, these are my favorite choices for Portland’s photography exhibits and events this spring.   Portland Photography Exhibits to See This Spring   Main Streets: Wesley […]

Happy February! There are some exciting things on deck for Samantha Shannon Photography this month: launching the spring & summer family photo booking calendar two networking events with local photographers in Portland and Salem updating print product photos & headshots in the studio seeing new album samples, frame corners, and framed artwork samples roll in […]

Whether you’re new to film photography and wondering where to develop film in Portland, or you’re curious what film processing labs we have locally to save time, Portland has you well-covered. Read on for the best places to develop film in the Portland metro area.     Where to Develop Film in Portland Photo Vision […]