The Dreamers - Shannen Fusco

14 days ago

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Written by

14 days ago

·

Written by

Welcome to the new Dreamers series—where we celebrate the beauty, chaos, and magic of real family life. This month, meet Shannen Fusco: talented photographer, mum of four, and creative soul from Long Island, New York. Shannen shares her reflections on motherhood, creativity, and all the rare moments in between.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and who is in your family?

There's half a dozen of us ha! Rori is 7, Logan’s 6, Dax is 3 and Van will be two this summer. They’re all so different but also really similar in their energy and curiosity. Always exploring, full of adventure and always making sure I’m not too far behind.

Lucas and I feel pretty lucky to call this crew ours.

Where do you call home, and are there any hidden gems in

your area you'd love to share?

We live on Long Island, New York. Downtown Port Jefferson is our favourite spot!

What makes it feel so special for you and your family?

It’s where we go when we’re looking to get out of the house or have something to celebrate. Boats, icecream, playground, beach, friendliest locals. There's really nothing better.

We are obsessed with your photography style! How did your journey into photography begin?

Thank you so much! Photography started as another creative outlet for me, but it quickly became something I couldn’t stop thinking about. That’s how I knew it was different. Every other hobby I’ve had gets left for dead pretty fast, but this one stuck. I’m self-taught and have been learning through trial and error from the very beginning. I’ve been so fortunate to have other photographer friends and mentors who’ve shared their wisdom or taken a chance on me. It's meant everything to me over the years.

How has motherhood influenced your work behind the lens?

The deeper I get into motherhood the better I get at documenting it. It’s helped me slow down and really pay attention to what matters. What’s worth holding on to.

Do you have a favourite shoot or moment that really sticks

with you?

Not one specific shoot but a type. Motherhood sessions. When moms really let go and let me in. Those moments feel the most honest and the most important to me.

How do you find balance between running your business and being a mama?

I get asked this a lot and still don’t have the perfect answer. My kids come first, always. I try not to take on more than my family life will allow. Some days are all work, some are all play, and I’ve learned to be okay with that. It’s less about balance and more about knowing what matters most. The goal is to document this season for myself first,

then for others.

What’s lighting you up lately—any creative projects, family adventures, or simple moments you’re loving right now?

Motherhood. The real kind. The quiet moments most people overlook. A toddler tugging at mom’s leg while she folds laundry. Washing dishes while the kids play nearby. Tending to the garden with a baby on her hip. The little scenes you remember from your own childhood and wish you had photos of. That’s what I want to give to other families.