Through The Lens of Photographer Shanelle Riley: Capturing Wildlife’s Wonders and Reflections on Self Growth

In this episode of the Soul Summit podcast, host Courtney Prete joins Shanelle Riley, a dynamic wildlife photographer based in Montana. Shanelle's journey begins with stories of her humble beginnings, capturing the essence of Courtney's archery camps and embarking on solo adventures. These experiences ignited the flame of her passion for photography.

Throughout the episode, a central theme of their conversation revolves around Shanelle's mantra: "Embrace Discomfort for Growth." She vividly describes moments of uncertainty and discomfort during her solo expeditions, moments that ultimately became pivotal for her personal and professional development. Shanelle eloquently explains how stepping outside of one's comfort zone is not just a challenge but an essential catalyst for growth, both as an artist and as an individual.

Shanelle shines a light on the profound impact of mentorship in her journey. She speaks fondly of her own mentors, individuals whose guidance and wisdom helped navigate the complexities of wildlife photography. These mentors not only provided technical knowledge but also imparted invaluable lessons on patience, observation, and the art of storytelling through imagery.

As the conversation deepens, Shanelle dives into the technical aspects of photography, emphasizing the importance of understanding camera settings and the nuances of natural light. Her passion for the craft is palpable as she shares tips and tricks, encouraging listeners to embark on their own photographic adventures with newfound confidence.

One of the highlights of the episode is Shanelle's discussion of her photography retreats. These immersive experiences, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Montana's wilderness, are designed to not only teach photography skills but also to foster a deeper connection with nature. Shanelle's retreats are more than just workshops; they are transformative experiences where participants are encouraged to explore their creativity, overcome challenges, and forge lasting friendships.

As the episode comes to an end, Shanelle leaves us with a powerful message: 'Every moment is an opportunity to capture the essence of life.' Her words encourage us to embrace discomfort, seek mentorship, and embark on our creative journeys with passion and purpose. But Shanelle goes beyond inspiration; she offers practical tools for photographers, sharing her '5 Key Elements To Composition' and a 'Photography Cheat Sheet.'

To receive this valuable resource, simply comment 'PHOTOGRAPH’ on our Instagram page for episode #133 and we'll send the download link to your DMs!

Thank you for tuning in to this captivating episode of Soul Summit. Make sure to follow Shanelle Riley on Instagram for a visual delight of her breathtaking photography. Subscribe to the podcast for more empowering conversations with individuals who are creating positive change in the world!

Find the full line up of 2024 Her Outdoor Journey events and retreats here!

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Did you enjoy this episode? We'd love to hear from you! Please take a minute to leave a review on the show. Tell us what you think OR what you want to hear next! We appreciate this community of outdoor junkies and we're looking forward to what the future holds!

Now go get after it! Tag us in your adventures #SoulSummitPodcast #HerOutdoorJourney