Welcome, creatives!
I'm so excited to announce the very first Wild Fern Collective!
If you've been wanting to build your portfolio, gain confidence posing clients, and learn alongside other photographers in a welcoming, supportive environment, this event is for you.
Together, we'll photograph three fully styled sessions:
📸 Senior
🤍 Maternity
💍 Couple
Throughout the evening, I'll be sharing how I approach each session, including:
• Finding and using beautiful natural light
• Posing clients naturally
• Creating genuine connection and emotion
• Camera settings and composition
• Tips I've learned from running a full-time photography business
This isn't about standing in the back hoping you get a shot. I've intentionally designed this as a small group experience so everyone has plenty of opportunities to photograph, ask questions, and learn.
You're also encouraged to capture behind-the-scenes content throughout the evening to share on your own social media!
After the sessions, anyone who would like to continue the conversation is invited to join us for an optional dinner at a local restaurant to network, ask more questions, and connect with other photographers in the area.
✨ Investment: $150
I wanted to keep this event affordable so newer photographers can invest in growing their skills without spending hundreds of dollars on a workshop.
Whether you've photographed just a handful of sessions or you're ready to become more confident behind the camera, I'd love to have you join us!
📍 Location: August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area, St. Charles
📅 Date: Coming this Fall!
🎟️ Limited spots available to keep the experience personal and hands-on.
FAQ
Who is this event for?
This event is designed for beginner and newer photographers looking to build their portfolio, gain confidence, and learn in a supportive, hands-on environment. If you've been wanting more practice posing clients, finding beautiful light, or simply getting more experience behind the camera, this event is for you!
What will we be photographing?
We'll have three fully styled sessions throughout the evening:
- Senior
- Maternity
- Couple
Each session will include live instruction and plenty of time for everyone to photograph.
Will you be teaching, or is this just a shootout?
Both! Throughout the event, I'll be demonstrating how I approach each session—from finding the best light and posing naturally to creating genuine connection and storytelling. You're encouraged to ask questions along the way.
How many photographers will be attending?
To keep the experience personal and ensure everyone has plenty of shooting time, attendance will be limited to 8 photographers.
Can I use the photos in my portfolio?
Yes! You're welcome to edit the images in your own style and use them on your website, social media, and portfolio.
Can I post BTS content?
Absolutely! I encourage you to capture behind-the-scenes content throughout the evening. Please just be respectful of the models, other photographers, and the learning experience.
Do I need professional equipment?
Not at all. Any camera you're comfortable using is welcome. Whether you're using an entry-level DSLR, mirrorless camera, or a professional setup, the goal is to learn and grow with the equipment you already have.
What should I bring?
- Camera and charged batteries
- Memory cards
- A lens (or two) that you're comfortable using
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- A notebook if you'd like to take notes
Will everyone get a chance to photograph?
Yes! The event is intentionally designed for a small group so everyone has plenty of opportunities to shoot and ask questions.
Will there be time to ask questions?
Absolutely. Questions are encouraged throughout the evening, and we'll also head to dinner afterward (optional) for anyone who wants to continue chatting, networking, and learning together.
*Photographers are responsible for cost of meal.
Why is this priced so affordable?
I wanted to create an opportunity that newer photographers could realistically invest in. My goal is to help photographers gain confidence, build their portfolios, and connect with others in the local photography community without the high price tag that many workshops require.
Can I attend if I've never photographed one of these session types before?
Absolutely! Whether you've never photographed a maternity session or you're still learning to pose couples, this event is meant to be a learning experience in a relaxed, encouraging environment.
What makes this different from a typical shootout?
This isn't about rushing through a line of photographers trying to grab a few images. My goal is to create a relaxed, educational experience where you'll learn why I pose the way I do, how I work with natural light, how I create genuine emotion, and leave with a portfolio you're proud of. You'll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, connect with other photographers, and grow your confidence behind the camera.