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. 

 I'll admit that I've always wanted to be behind the camera. So when I had the opportunity to have my photos taken with the latest Minneapolis photographer/ model meetup I couldn't resist having my photos taken. Don't get me wrong, I love snapping pictures of others, but sometimes I wonder what life would be like behind the scenes.

It was quite a humbling experience during the networking event when people questioned if I was a model or a photographer. The fashion age is shifting- and so am I. The concept of who can be a model is shifting- and maybe- just maybe I could someday be considered one too.

If you're interested in participating in the next Models/Photographers mixer I would highly recommend coming. Check out the link below to learn about more information and join in on the fun. https://www.facebook.com/events/123362718362397/

 

I like to consider myself to be a social media addict. Last year during my travels I relied heavily on social media in order to contact friends and family abroad. I'll admit, I love sharing my travels on social media, but sometimes I find myself needing to rant about certain predicaments. So when my friend suggested that I join the Facebook group, Girls Love to Travel, I didn't  hesitate to join.

I bit about the group. "Girls LOVE Travel is a global community of active and aspiring female travelers providing resources and empowerment to one another through safety, socializing and support". That's right folks, this is an ALL GIRLS group to ask about travel tips, be a support system, and connect with fellow travelers.

It sounds cheesy, but this is more than your average Facebook group. It is an international sisterhood that encourages users to connect over events. Founded in 2015, Girls Love to Travel has expanded into more than just a typical Facebook group. You could debate and say that it has become a type of corporation with its sponsored trips, merchandise, and admin team.

I would be lying if I said that the group hasn't helped me significantly in the past years, and I'm sure that many users would agree. I have used this site for international job advice, information on required documents while traveling, and moral support for those days of being homesick while abroad.

If you are interested in being a member of the group (you have to be a girl, sorry boys), check on the link.  Are you already apart of the group? If so comment below and let me know what you think of it!

Until next time,

Networking can be a scary thing. So much so that sometimes I even break out on my chest because I'm scared that I'll make a fool out of myself. Yep, that's right folks, I'm scared out of my whits when it comes networking. This may come to as a shock to those who know me and think of me as a social butterfly but I assure you that this is real.

Photo from Pinterest.com

I consider myself pretty candid when it comes to the blog. In case you aren't aware of my current life 'situation' here is a mini crash-course to get you up to speed.

A mini-lesson on Sabrina Kennelly's Life (so far): I have a degree in French and Communications with a Certificate in International Journalism. Throughout my time in College, I worked my butt off because I knew that the job market was competitive. I worked two jobs (within my job), completed three internships, studied abroad, partook and student activity life, and even graduated early from college. My first year out of college I partook in a teaching program in France. This gave me the opportunity to strengthen my skills in international relations and ultimately have the ability to see many different parts of the world.

Fast forward to last week. I received an email from Linkedin that I have been on the job search for 90 days. Yep, 90 days. If you personally know me, you probably know that I am my biggest critic. Honestly, I'm embarrassed for myself at how bad this situation has been going in terms of the job search. When people ask me what I'm doing I simply tell them that I'm strengthening my yoga moves because I'd rather not discuss my job search with others. I am fortunate enough to have a job at the moment with great coworkers but yearn to put my talents to use. I just wish that recruiters and hiring managers could see the same thing.

I don't want this post to come off as a whiny spoiled brat complaining about her life. I realize that I am fortunate in MANY ways. I am fortunate to have my parents and friends ongoing support during this time and couldn't even fathom how this could be for someone who has a family that depends on them. No matter what, finding a new job is a humbling experience.

I've learned a lot about myself in the last 90 days, and more specifically, the last week. After what seems to be rejection after rejection I finally received a job offer with my dream company. There was just one problem; when I received the email that I had received the job I immediately said "oh no". Suddenly I realized (maybe a bit too late in the game some might say), that I didn't want the job. I was upset at myself for not wanting it and feeling emotionless about the position.

I've said it time and time again; I am a big believer that things happen for a reason. I am slowly coming to terms of what my needs and expectation are. I want, no crave, a work-life balance. I want to work to live. I want to use my skills in photography, communications, and French to the test. When people see my resume, they automatically say 'sales' and though I'm happy that this is one my strengths, I would prefer to work on others.

So as of today, I'm rebranding the job search and myself. I will continue to network and grow my freelance photography business, and even though I might not be traveling as much as I want at the moment, I am going to remember that sometimes the best lessons in life don't happen while seeing the Eiffel tower or eating pasta in Italy. Sometimes some of the best lessons that you learn about yourself happen at home.

Until next time,

On Tuesday, Popstar and actress Demi Lovato released her Youtube original documentary 'Simply Complicated'. I'm not going to lie and tell you that I wasn't counting down the days for this to be released. As someone who has followed Lovato even before she debuted on Camp Rock (yes, I'm one of those weirdos that like to state that I was a fan BEFORE everyone else), this documentary allowed for old and young fans alike to understand the struggles that Lovato has faced throughout her life. In the documentary, Demi Lovato opens up about everything from her breakup with That 70's show Wilmar Valderrama, her abuse of drugs and alcohol, the pressure of fame, and her eating disorder.

The documentary, which is directed by Hannah Lux Davis, had many revelations and admittedly tear-jerking moments about the stars past. As a 'Lovatic' (aka a fan of Demi Lovato), much of the information in the documentary came as a shock. For the first time, fans received a glimpse into the severity of the situation that Lovato and her team had gone through during her time of using and abusing drugs and alcohol. Though I knew that she had been in treatment, I was unaware of how uncommitted she was to the program and that she had lied about her sobriety.

Watching 'Simply Complicated' allowed for viewers to receive an understanding into Lovato's pain. The girl has obviously dealt with a lot of loss and hurt and this can be seen throughout the documentary from her ongoing struggles with her weight. I'll be honest with you and admit that this Youtube Original might not be for everyone. It is a testimony to Lovato's strength but could be deemed as triggering for those who have or are facing similar tribulations to the stars. At the end of the documentary, I was more proud of Lovato and her management  team Phil McIntyre than ever before. This series is a testament to their strength and the development of her as individual and as an artist.

Have you seen the documentary 'Simply Complicated'? Comment below and let me know what your thoughts are!

Halloween is right around the corner and, probably like myself, you are freaking the heck out over what to wear. As a fashion lover I always find it hard to find costumes that are not only cute; but that I can re-wear in the future in my day-to-day life. I'm a firm believer in trying to find a costume that you can already piece together at your house or can find easily at Goodwill. Below are a couple of Halloween Costumes that you can wear either individually or with your girl squad.


#1) Beyonce- Lemonade

#2) Paris Hilton for her birthday

(Fun fact: This dress has become really popular again and is available on ASOS and Zara for purchase)

                                     #3) Winter for American Horror Story
                          

#4) Victoria Secret Model


Group idea: Look what you made me do- different versions of Taylor Swift

Photo from StyleScrapbook.com

Ask any fashion blogger who their inspirations are, and I'm they'll give you an extensive list. One of my all-time favorite fashion bloggers hands down is the creator of StyleScrapbook.com,  Andy Torres.  Since 2007, Torres has been sharing her styling tips with the world on her blog StyleScrapbook.com.  I became a fan of Torres one day when I was scrolling on Lookbook.nu  and became inspired by her twist of sporty and ready-to-wear clothing.