As a freelance photographer, one of the most frequent questions I receive is how I connect with models. Until recently, I was one of those photographers that I only had a handful of models. Thanks to a little networking, some marketing techniques, and an updated website I now can say that I have an array of models to shoot. So how did I go from having a few models to people DMing me on Instagram? Here are a few tips in order to gain clientele.

1. Connect with like-minded people on Instagram; This is probably a no-brainer, but it is a necessary tip that has helped me expand my network. As great as it is to be connected with your friends and family on social media, think about following other photographers, models, and makeup artists. This is a great way for you not only to see what they are doing, but to get inspired, and hopefully extend an invitation to work with you. 
2. Meet IRL: Attend local networking events and meet the people that you follow on social media in real life. This will allow for you to gauge who you want to work with. We mesh with people in different ways. By meeting people in real life, you not only create a connection with others but also allows for the possibility of creating some spontaneous art. 
3. Join groups on social media group: Facebook has a lot of photographer/model groups that not only allow for you to connect with others but promote your artwork and receive critics of your latest shoots. 
4. Go above and beyond: There are always those people that we wish we could connect and snap pictures of. The worst thing that someone will do is say 'no'. Take the chance and contact those individuals that you think could help you move to the next limit. You never know what those valuable connections will do for you. 

We've all been there. It's time to start thinking about your next career choice. You upload your resume onto various job boards and press the 'apply here' button. You sigh in relief at how easy it is to apply for jobs nowadays and go on with your life.

It seems like every day there is a new name (or names) of people accused of sexual misconduct within the workplace. Since the Harvey Weinstein case broke out in October 2017, there have been over 50 public figures that have either been fired or called out for sexual misconduct (check source here).  It's scary to think about but the facts are a harsh reality of the world we live in today. Sexual misconduct is taking place all around the world and it is not just high profile people that are standing up. 223 women, including 60 current and former ambassadors, recently signed an open letter #metoonotsec accusing their industry of discrimination and harassment (check out article here).

The #metoo hashtag (which I talked about in a previous blog post ), has been a helpful tool to open up dialogues and create waves within the workplace in terms of what is and what is not appropriate conduct. As the unfortunate list rises of victims sharing their stories, it is important to use this time as a period of contemplation when it comes to our interactions with our co-workers, peers, and individuals.

For many of the accusers, the first statement that they have generally made was a state of shock.
"This has been a shock and it's been extremely humbling," said Minnesota State Senator to the New York Times (article here). While friends of the accusers, such as Roy Moore, typically brush away accusations because of their values and personal attributes.

The reality is this: sexual misconduct happens. No scratch that, it IS happening. Sure, you might not be grabbing at someone inappropriately at the office, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't be evaluating your behavior towards others. Reflect on your behaviors towards others. Question yourself and others. If you sense something, say something. Did you just see a cute boy and want to holler across the street? Think about how you would feel if you were in their shoes and continue to evaluate your daily interactions so that you aren't that person that is sitting in HR now, or in ten years, being questioned for their behavior. Because the sad reality is that it could be your brother, sister, best friend, leader, or boss. So until this behavior stops, I will continue to write and write about why this behavior and actions need to stop.

Until next time,

Sabrina Kennelly

For photographers and models alike, the winter can be considered a time where your creativity is tested to the max. Unless you are lucky enough to have a studio, many photographers resort to finding locations that will keep both the client and photographer warm during their photo shoot. Here are a couple of ideas of where to shoot this winter in the Twin Cities. Keep in mind, every location has different rules when it comes to photography. Before you start shooting at your desired venue, be sure to check out the dos-and-donts for photographers. Some locations will even have special photography hours so make sure you don't have any security guards getting mad at you during your perfect shot.

#1) Minnesota State Capital

Photo Taken by Joe Mamer

This is one of my personal favorites and I cannot wait to shoot here this winter. The capital is open to the public throughout the week from 8:30 am- 5pm and offers a variety of architecture and lighting for any photographer to get giddy about. The building was newly refurbished this past summer and contains paintings that will make any model look like royalty.  My personal favorite location of the building? The basement offers unique architecture and lighting that would create stellar black-and-white photographs.

#2) Minnesota History Center

Just walk down the street and you'll be able to find your next location in St.Paul. Though the museum itself has great sights the building itself is one to be marveled at as well. The center allows for a great backdrop of the capital along with natural lighting and pillars that would make for the perfect backdrop in any photo. This is a one-of-a-kind unique space like no other, and though it might cost you a few dollars to enter in, is definitely worth the investment.

#3) Shopping Mall

The Mall of America might be known as the largest mall in America, but it offers a unique space for photographers. If you are creative enough during your concept of shooting, this mall could be a photographers playground for potential shoots. Just think about it: the mall offers bright space, playful settings like Nickelodeon Universe, and even allows for models to change up their look at a drop of a hat with the over 50+ retailers. Shooting at the Mall of America will require prior notification from the PR team. You might not want to bring a client out here, but this is a great place to snap pictures from your phone for security purposes. Local Malls (including Rosedale or the Galleria) are a bit more lax on their photography rules and are great ideas for shooting.

#4) Minneapolis Institue of Arts

#5) The University of Minnesota (or any college campus)

This post was updated on 11/16/17 with updated photography rules. 

December 31st has passed, and with it another year has commenced. 2016 has been a year that will surely be memorable for people around the world (for both good and bad reasons a like). For myself, I find myself reflecting back at this year and realizing how much I have been pushed both physically and mentally throughout the passed year. 2016 was my first year of truly becoming an adult. Having graduated in December of 2015, I found myself struggling to come to terms with what I wanted to do after college. This was the year that I began re-defying myself and my vision of the world around me.

For many of us, the end of the year can be a time to reflect on the (many) negative aspects that have gone on throughout the year. Yes, I agree that 2016 hasn't been my favorite year, but instead of drowning you with the sorrows of 2016 I would instead like to focus on the positives. So here it goes....

Dear 2016,
   Thank you for giving me the opportunity to learn more about myself. You made me realize that life isn't always going to be easy; and that's okay. During the times that you made me just want to give up, crawl in bed, and eat a bunch of chocolate (which I most certainly did at times) you made me realize that I have great friends and family that will always be there to support me. 2016 was also a time for adventure. It was the year that I got to explore uncharted territories, mark stamps in my passport, face new challenges, and create lifelong friendships. If I've learned anything from this year it is to expect the unexpected. I can't always control things, and that can be hard for type A-personalities like myself to accept at times. But guess what? I did it 2016. I faced all the challenges and curve balls you gave me and some how managed to find myself celebrating the good and the bad times of 2016 in anticipation for another year filled with even more unknown adventures.


Until next time,

Packaging of the headphones purchased

The phony pair of headphones

Whether you're going to the cabin for the weekend or a trip to Europe, here are a few packing essentials that should be apart of everyone's bag in order to make a great trip!

Almost every blogger I know has had difficulties writing and creating original content. There's a reasons why the phrase 'writers block' exists, and it happens quiet often for bloggers too. For myself, creating weekly or even daily content for the blog can sometimes be a struggle. Now I'm not trying to complain about having a blog by no means. Instead, I'm writing this post in hopes of helping other writers and creating a reminder as a blogger of what not to do as a blogger.

December, I had the privilege of seeing Downton Abbey season 4 BEFORE US audiences. Being a moderately huge fan of the PBS masterpiece series, I was thrilled to be attending the event. As a present for having completed finals, my mother and I attended the event together. I won't give too many hints about what happens tonight for Downton Abbey (for all of you spoiler seekers this is not the place) but I will tell you how the episode has impacted me.


Cardigan: Loft Shirt: Target :) Skirt: BCBG Tights: Spanx

 I don't know how television does this but somehow-as if the writers for the TV show can predict my future and have each and every episode of Downton relate to my life somehow is pure genius. Maybe its my egotistical self believing that everything in one single episode pertains to my life. There's something magical about TV shows-especially one like Downton-because even though the piece is set in a completely different time period without cell phones and Facebook profiles I still can completely understand and relate to the characters. The innovations of technology that are introduced in the show also show how profound these products are-which I had merely forgotten about because I have been accommodated to having them. I argue that Downton Abbey is a reminder of how the past used to be as a well as a act of reflection of how are present world is.
  The show has helped me in many ways. No, I don't use the show as my crutch. But I do use it as a sort of guide for when it comes to relations, as a motivation that I can do better.  Ok that's a really general statement that could be said about pretty much any TV show (other then Hannah Montanna of course). But in all sincerity, that is how I feel about Downton Abbey. There's more though, which pertains specifically to season 4 episode one. Even when you are at your lowest you have to get up and try again. You might believe or see yourself as someone that is considered to be a loner, or someone that doesn't need help, the patriarch. I say that's complete BS. The strongest a person is, is when they admit that they need help. Someone that knows and acknowledges that they need help. This episode reminded me of this fact. Look around you and realize that you have a support system-that will always be there to help lift you up when you need it. Maybe I'm just being cheesy as always, but I truly believe that this episode has helped shaped me in realizing that no one has to face a problem alone. Each and every person has at least one person that they can fight any and every single battle with.



Outfit for the night-Confidence is a must!

Until next time,

Sabrina Kennelly

At Purdue, ready for a great adventure ahead!

     1) Before departing, look to see where the nearest gym is located. Since I was close to Purdue's campus-I decided to work out in their new Rec Center (it was seriously mind boggling). If you are staying at a hotel, look before hand and plan accordingly.
    2) Even if you don't think you are going to work out-bring the proper clothes. Don't be that person that decides they want to work out at a drop of a hat but can't because they didn't pack the necessary outfits. By even packing them, makes you motivated.
    3) Have a good pair of walking shoes! This will allow you to explore the city you are in without the blisters. You can still look fashionable while wearing great shoes that help support you. Who wants to have a vacation moping around in pain over their feet pain? Not me!
    4) Make a playlist on your ipod. I found this to be really helpful during my trip. I didn't like the music being played at the gym. So instead of moping around I made a playlist. This allowed me to become excited and kept me staying pumped throughout my entire workout. Who doesn't love hearing a good mix of Britney Spears and NSYNC while working out?
    5) Invite others to work out with you! You most likely aren't the only person who wants to get a good sweat in during your vacation. If you are traveling with friends or family, ask them. It doesn't hurt you. The worse response you're going to get is a "no". Working out can be a good bonding activity as well as a competition for the both of you!

   I always have in my head that the fourth of July is the half way point of the summer. Honestly, I hope this isn't true because I have been lacking sleep (and some precious time hanging out with my friends as well). I love work but it is exhausting me sometimes. My sleep schedule is bonkers and I do not have enough time (or energy for that matter) to socialize. I am so tired that I am rubbing my eyes and yawing every sentence that I type out. Its a good thing that I have vacation next week. Just kidding. My vacation entitles me to chaperone10 high school teens. Not your typical vacation. I'm going to try my best to channel in my Mother-Theresa  and have a halo gracing my head the entire trip. I intend to blog the entirety of the trip. I'm bringing a long my trusty little lap top along to type the journey away. There's something about writing on trains-maybe its the amount of movies that I watch-but that allow me to have hope that maybe I'll be able to write a book in a short 8 hour time frame. After all, the concept of Harry Potter came about on a train. Not that I would be writing something as great as Harry Potter. Or for the matter that I would be even capable of doing so.
    My weight loss journey has been going well. Before my weight loss 'journey' I was scared to even step on the scale in fear of what the numbers were going to be. Now, at least twice a week I check how much I weigh. Better then ever two years, right?!? I know a lot of people have said this, but drinking fluids is the key here (water guys) to loosing weight. I'm now even more addicted to popcorn then ever before as well as salsa because they are so healthy.I know that I still have a ways to go, but I am excited to go back to school and feel (and look) better then ever before. I never realized that I was-and still am-over weight until this year. I don't think it set into my head that I was over weight until there was a possibility in Feburary of meeting my favorite band. I remember thinking in my head " I wish that I was skinnier/healthier when I met them, I'm not ready". Of course this weight lost journey isn't just to impress the Jonas Brothers. Trust me, I've tried that before and it hasn't gone well. This weight lost journey is for myself. Not for the boy in my math class that I have been trying for him to notice me. Not for my parents. Not for the media who says that you need to be a certain weight/size. Myself. The reason for why I'm loosing weight, I believe, is the key reason for why I'm doing so well (and getting results) compared to before. Compared to other times, I wasn't loosing weight for myself. I was doing it because others told me I was fat. Looking back, I wish that I would have realized that I wasn't heavy weight. Instead of eating away at my emotions I should have blocked those thoughts of others out. Instead of going drastic then and only eating 300 calories a day, I should have learned about how to MAINTAIN my weight instead of believing that I could live off of the minimum amount. I am glad that I am at a better place both mentally and physically now and cannot wait to loose even more weight for myself. I have had people tell me that you can never be selfish. That it's "looked down upon" if you do. I don't believe that. When it comes to your health, you should be selfish. You need to take action and get your body in the best condition possible. I hope for any of you guys reading this, that I can be an example of how weight loss is a benefit for people. I have never been more active in my life. I am walking a minimum of 3 miles a day. Biking, playing tennis and volleyball, swimming and even more! Honestly, what are you waiting for? You have nothing to loose other than pounds!
    On that note, here is the list of things that I have completed with some pictures. I cannot believe how much I have done so far. It has been amazing! Cannot wait to complete the rest of the list for the summer!


 

  

  
 For the past couple years now, cyberbullying has become the "hot topic". First singer Demi Lovato, made the issue aware after going into rehab; explaining that bullying was one of the reasons that lead her towards depression. Movies such as Cyberbullying on ABC Family and new stories of mothers posing as teenagers and harassing young girls have also been splattered across the media lately. Having been bullied myself via the internet, I know how it feels to be the 'target'. I had done nothing wrong to these girls. What made it worst though, was that these girls attended my school. Feeling inspired by Gossip Girl the girls took it to the next step and made blogs dissing not only girls, but boys and teachers too from the school. Of course, I was intrigued by the blog-because really, if someone is writing about you, don't you think you would want to know too what it was about? Those words via the internet hurt more than that could be said out load. Why? Because even to this day, 6 years latter, I can still find these mean and nasty comments found via the internet for not only my classamates at the time to see, but the entire world. Even to this day, when I feel sad I glance over at the blog and I believe that like them too, everyone must hate me. I know this isn't true. That I am supported by family and friends-but at times the internet and the nasty words don't help.
    This sentiment of feeling completely like shit because of the internet came back the other day via twitter. I'm not saying that my response was correct ( I used some colorful language defending someone) but I am sick and tired of one thing. What is that?!? Hearing all these girls play the "victim" role when it comes to online cyberbullying. Now, you're probably thinking of me as a presumptuous pig right at this second. And, in fact I probably am just a bit. I don't believe that everyone is a victim. Yes, I do believe though that victims do exist though and that I am not the only one who has ever been victimized by online bullying. It sickens me though when people, specifically girls, feel the need to attack one person via the internet such as celebrities or even REGULAR human people. Yes, it might seem fun to "provoke" people online and get that attention at first-but wouldn't you prefer it to be positive energy? Why not work hard and maintain a good and positive relationship with people over the internet?
    Hopefully, if you have gained anything from this "rant" I have it's this: that it's never right to attack someone via the internet numerous times. Yes, complaining about someone indirectly is fine by my standards if it only happens once or twice. But to directly attack someone continuously is cruel. Just remember that the next time you post something on twitter or facebook, or simply commenting on Youtube. Just like when you're talking, THINK before you post. I hope you guys can all take this into account. And for those of you who are being bullied via the internet, talk to a friend about it. But remember, don't become consumed with it-or it will get the best of you. Instead take the higher road, and be the mature one. You will get rewarded in the end for that. If you have any questions on how to deal with someone via the internet you can comment below. As always xoxoxoxo
Sabrina