蘑菇视频

Students in 蘑菇视频鈥檚 Professional Photography Program stepped into the fast-paced world of the industry on May 8 during a portfolio 鈥渟peed dating鈥� event designed to connect graduating photographers with working professionals.

The event paired students with industry experts for a series of 15-minute, one-on-one portfolio reviews. In each session, students presented their work, received personalized feedback, asked questions, and built connections in a dynamic and supportive setting.

Organized by program faculty member Martin Laporte, the initiative offered students a valuable opportunity to gain insight into the realities of the photography industry while refining their professional approach.

A group of experienced photographers generously participated, including Alexis Belhumeur, Adam Nigro, Richard Bernardin, Audrey Saint-Laurent, Alexi Hobbs, and Elyse Belmont-Stroh. Their feedback and encouragement played a key role in shaping the students鈥� experience.

For graduating student Kassidy Staines, the event delivered both practical advice and a confidence boost.

鈥淭he most valuable piece of advice I received was to know my worth,鈥� she said. 鈥淎dam Nigro told me to never be scared of asking 鈥榮tupid鈥� questions because it could lead to losing a client. He said to be confident so clients will trust me and then more clients will follow.鈥�

While the format was intense, Staines described the experience as ultimately positive.

鈥淚t was stressful. I wanted to impress them because they鈥檙e professionals in the industry I鈥檓 trying to join,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut the two I met with were so incredibly nice. They really encouraged me to keep going.鈥�

Beyond feedback on her current work, the event also helped Kassidy refine her creative direction. Initially focused on product photography as a practical career path, she found new inspiration through her conversations.

鈥淎udrey Saint-Laurent encouraged me to combine my two passions,鈥� she explained. 鈥淚 love doing macro bug photography, and she said it could be the perfect niche to make me stand out.鈥�

Kassidy now plans to continue developing her product photography while incorporating her interest in macro insect imagery, potentially carving out a unique niche aligned with ethical and animal-safe branding.

By combining professional critique with meaningful networking, the portfolio speed dating event offered students a glimpse into their future careers and the confidence to pursue them.