Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Engeseth.
Hi Megan , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi VoyageMinnesota! I’m a fine art portrait photographer in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. I started my life off as a theatre performance artist – so drama and artistry is in my blood. While in college I had the opportunity to take a photography class that included darkroom development and I was hooked.
I decided to take my love of photography to new heights around 2013 when I quit a corporate job to be a portrait artist full time. I taught myself digital photography and basically took a crash course on running a business.
Ever since then my focus has been on creating unique, artistic imagery that tells each client’s story through art. Being authentic, open, empathetic and unapologetically creative has allowed me to build a photography experience that’s as epic and memorable as the finished portraits themselves.
I specialize in high school seniors, fine art portraits, and headshots, offering a full-service approach that guides my clients from wardrobe styling to professional hair and makeup and from session day to in-person artwork selection.
I know how hard it can be to get in front of the camera and give it your all. At the heart of my business is the belief that portraits should transform the way people see themselves. My goal is always the same: to create artwork that’s both uniquely, stunningly authentic. To embrace who they are, how they show up, and tell their story through art.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think running a business always has struggles. Being a small business can be terrifying – with learning and stumbles along the way. Each client is unique, every year that goes by is different so learning to adapt and embrace a fast changing and trend driven industry is key.
However, I learned very quickly that having close mentors and peers in this industry is invaluable and the photography community in the Twin Cities is amazing.
Some of my best friends are my direct competition – but we still learn from each other and cheer each other on. I know without that support this can be a lonely business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Portraits aren’t one size fits all at my studio. They’re a collaboration. I want to dig into what makes them who they are, and then dream up ways to bring that to life. I’m known for non-traditional looks that look more like paintings or a fairytale than standard portraits.
Over the years, I’ve created portraits that go far beyond what would be considered “traditional.” I’ve done lavish Marie Antoinette–inspired sessions, styled historical themes with couture gowns (think Downton Abbey), built entire sets from scratch, and even taken the shoots underwater. My theatre roots definitely come in handy when set building or designing signature looks for their portraits!
When someone wants something a little more unique, I’m their photographer!
Beyond the art I get to create, I’m most proud of the environment I’ve built. I know firsthand how powerful it is to be in spaces that nurture instead of tear down, and I carry deep gratitude for the chance to create that kind of experience for others. Every session is rooted in encouragement, the kind of support I wish everyone could have had during my theatre and arts training.
The older I get, and the more I work with people, the more I know that real artistry doesn’t come from fear or shame. It comes from empathy, understanding, and trust. Showing the world who you are is scary, but being who you are is powerful. In my studio, I strive to create a space where my clients feel safe enough to take risks, be creative, and let their true selves shine without fear of being torn down. I am so proud of that.
What sets Megan Engeseth Photography apart? My portraits are never one-size-fits-all. Every session begins by learning who the client is and then creating a concept that is entirely their own. That might mean scouting epic outdoor locations, styling couture-inspired looks, or building a custom set.
Each client then leaves with finished artwork: wall pieces professionally installed in their home or bespoke albums handcrafted in Italy. These aren’t just images; they’re daily reminders of a milestone or a moment in time, proudly displayed and shared for years to come.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Having close peers in this industry is invaluable and the photography community in the Twin Cities is something truly special.
Some of my closest friends are technically my direct competition but we still learn from each other, share resources, and cheer each other on.
We’ve collaborated on shoots, bartered with locations, enjoyed workdays together and been there for each other during the stressful, last-minute curveballs this business can throw. That support makes all the difference because as rewarding as this work is, it can also feel incredibly lonely without a strong community around you.
Knowing I have a circle of talented, generous people who want to see me thrive and who know I feel the same about them has been one of the biggest contributors to my success and happiness in this industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.meganengesethphotography.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/meganengesethphoto
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/meganenengesethphotography
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-engeseth/
