“My time with Ari during the first 6 months of the mentorship was incredibly helpful in perfecting a portfolio for applications to jobs following graduation. She was there to assist me at a critical point in my career, and helped me decide between keeping a full-time job at Boise State or reaching out and looking for something in a bigger market at a higher level. As a graduating senior, this was a time where I really needed the input of industry professionals, and Ari gave me that insight and connected me with other people who would be willing to offer advice as well. When I had the opportunity to move to Kansas City, I called her first and she helped me decide what was best for where I wanted to go. Her experience in the industry helped me navigate what can sometimes be a confusing career path.

Marcio was an awesome resource for me on technical photography and being more intentional as a photographer. Coming from a wire service, he was able to offer a new, more commercially viable perspective on sports photography, and what my “takes” from games or events should look like as a whole. I had already decided to move to KC as we began talking, so we talked frequently about how photos should look and how I can take advantage of my access working for a team. His positivity and direct feedback helped me become confident in my approach in a new city working with a new team.

A huge part of the DPPF mentorship has been just outreach to other industry professionals who might not be a part of DPPF, but are familiar with the name and are willing to help young people who want to learn. I reached out to several photographers I admired during my time as a mentee, and was never ignored. People were always willing to help me, and I attribute a lot of that willingness to the DPPF’s reputation around the industry. I’m so grateful I used this to connect with people outside of my small Boise market, and that experience has been invaluable to my career. “