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I am a full-time photographer and owner of Photography by Shanna. I began studying photography in 1998, and received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Illinois University.

 

​Starting my photography journey on film gave me a wonderful perspective that I believe can be lost with digital cameras. Every shot mattered. Missed shots cost – both money and time in the dark room. I learned on the principle that creating an amazing photograph was worth taking time to make it amazing – not just firing off a bunch of clicks and hoping it happened.  I carry that frame of thinking with me to this day.

 

​After several years as a hobbyist photographer, I began shooting sessions for other people around 2006, and opened my business in 2012. Three years after opening, my business grew to a full time venture. Today, I shoot select clientele for family portraits, branding portraits, senior portraits and weddings. I teach photography workshops and classes at the 408 Fine Arts Factory, and advise small business owners on branding and social media with the Small Business Development Center. I am also the LaSalle-Peru Tuesdays Together leader for the Rising Tide Society, which promotes community over competition among small business owners and creative entrepreneurs.