SAO D-ZYNZ, Inc.

05/05/2026

:: NEW WORK ::

If you saw my last post, I mentioned revisiting a space I haven’t explored in a while. I promised more, so here it is!

Creating with people again has sparked something unexpected... a renewed curiosity... a different kind of creative energy. Not necessarily portraits, but something a bit more conceptual. More interpretive and storytelling.

I’m not entirely sure where this direction will lead yet, but honestly, that’s part of the fun!

I can't make this post without giving a shoutout to where the inspiration was ignited - THANK YOU to ShutterFest/ The Shutter for creating this community and culture that the photography world so desperately needs!

Now I present to you, the lovely Kaila!

*****

Model // Kaila Juenger (IG: )
HMUA // Refine Beauty
Event // ShutterFest/Behind The Shutter
Class // Fantasy Portrait: From Concept to Completion by Russ Turner
Camera // Canon R5 (Canon USA)
Photographer // Stephonie A Schmitz - SAO Dzynz, Inc

*****

Stephonie Schmitz Scenic Art Loop by ARRT

04/25/2026

:: NEW WORK ::

For the past 5 years, I’ve attended a week-long photography conference like no other (seriously, the best around... ShutterFest by Behind The Shutter) at Union Station in St. Louis. We just got back, and I’m finally digging into some of the images created during classes and during the Secret Shoot with Sal Cincotta (still stoked I won a spot to shoot alongside him and a few lucky others!).

Be prepared for some new work in a realm I haven’t explored in quite some time. PEOPLE!

While my practice is focused primarily in fine art landscapes and nature, ShutterFest always has a way of reigniting curiosity, stretching creative muscles, and reminding me how much joy there is in learning, experimenting, and revisiting parts of photography I haven’t touched in years.

This experience had me refreshing old skills, building new ones, and honestly just having fun, all while sparking an even deeper passion for the medium all over again.

So yes… there may be a little portrait work making its way into the mix. 😉 And I hope you all enjoy some of the beauty that’s about to unfold across my page.

For now, here is the lovely and talented Alonna!

Model // Alonna Gibson (IG: )
HMUA // Refine Beauty , Brandi Patton, and Shea Griessel (IG: , , )
Stylist // Paulina Gwaltney (IG: )
Location // The 2700 Building (IG: )
Event // (IG: )
Lighting // Nanlite USA (IG: )
Camera // - Canon R5 (IG: )
Photographer // Stephonie Schmitz / SAO Dzynz, Inc (IG: )

04/25/2026

:: NEW WORK ::

For the past 5 years, I’ve attended a week-long photography conference like no other (seriously, the best around... ShutterFest by Behind The Shutter) at Union Station in St. Louis. We just got back, and I’m finally digging into some of the images created during classes and during the Secret Shoot with Sal Cincotta (still stoked I won a spot to shoot alongside him and a few lucky others!).

Be prepared for some new work in a realm I haven’t explored in quite some time. PEOPLE!

While my practice is focused primarily in fine art landscapes and nature, ShutterFest always has a way of reigniting curiosity, stretching creative muscles, and reminding me how much joy there is in learning, experimenting, and revisiting parts of photography I haven’t touched in years.

This experience had me refreshing old skills, building new ones, and honestly just having fun, all while sparking an even deeper passion for the medium all over again.

So yes… there may be a little portrait work making its way into the mix. 😉 And I hope you all enjoy some of the beauty that’s about to unfold across my page.

For now, here is the lovely and talented Alonna!

Model // Alonna Gibson (IG: )
HMUA // Refine Beauty, Brandi Patton, and Shea Griessel (IG: , , )
Stylist // Paulina Gwaltney (IG: )
Location // The 2700 Building (IG: )
Event // Behind The Shutter (IG: )
Lighting // Nanlite USA (IG: nanliteusa)
Camera // Canon USA - Canon R5 (IG: )

04/19/2026

:: HONORED ::

Grateful to the (CMAAA/Coliseum Museum of Art, Antiques, and Americana) for the opportunity to be part of the 3rd Annual Focus on Photography Art Exhibit!

I had four pieces in the show, and I am honored that “Split Rock Lighthouse at Dusk” received 2nd Place!

I missed the awards ceremony because I was in St. Louis all week at a photography conference (ShutterFest by - the best there is!)… which feels like a pretty on-brand reason to miss a photography reception 😉; off making more images for the next one!

The exhibit is on view through May 16, so if you’re nearby, I’d love for you to stop in to take a peek (and cast a People’s Choice vote!)

At the same time, the members show is on display in the Taft Gallery, where I have two pieces featured.

“The Journey” (acrylic on canvas) was started in 2019 and sat unfinished for years because I was convinced I’d ruin it with the light rays. So I finally forced myself to finish it by submitting (because nothing motivates like a deadline) 😅 It’s still not quite there yet, but it now carries both 2019 and 2026 inscribed on the back… and I have a feeling there will be another year added before it truly feels finished.

The other piece, “Whiskey Splash,” is a fun favorite of mine and part of an ongoing series exploring whiskey glassware with the rest of the 4 elements (earth, air/wind, and fire). More to come on that soon!

Thank you, always, for the support... it means more than you know!

05/22/2025

:: Check Out Marley's New Video! ::

Watch and hear what Marley has to say about nature and kindly asking for your votes! If you feel inclined, the National Wildlife Federation could use some extra love these days, and as a bonus gets Marley some more votes!

> THANK YOU to all who have shown your support, especially to those who have been extra generous and those who have taken the time to show their love each day so far! She can't move on without YOU!

> VOTE NOW :: https://jr-ranger.org/2025/marley-8d66

Jr. Ranger National Wildlife Federation Jeff Corwin Ranger Rick Mags

Send a message to learn more

04/12/2025

:: BEST IN SHOW! ::

Shock of the night!! Humbled to announce that “Fire Sky” won Best in Show in the Focus on Photography Exhibition at the Coliseum Museum of Art (CMAAA)! The show was judged by the award winning photographer and artist, Rich Ankeney.

Here were my submissions, along with the winning piece…

>>> Anyone can visit the gallery to submit votes for their favorite piece for the People’s Choice Award until the end of the show on May 17, 2025

>> DID YOU KNOW?

04/07/2025

> H O N O R E D <

Humbled and honored to have been selected to exhibit 4 of my photographic art pieces in the judged and juried "Focus on Photography" Exhibition at the Coliseum Museum of Art in Oregon, IL!

:: IMPORTANT DATES ::
- Exhibition runs April 4 - May 17
- Awards Presentation April 11, 6-8pm (LIVE music by Jeffrey Little)
- People's Choice Award Winner announced at the end of the Exhibition

The exhibit will be judged by Rich Ankeney. Rich earned a BFA in painting and photography from Quincy University, a master’s degree in art education from Illinois State University, and a master’s degree in instructional technology from Western Illinois University.

Visitors to the Coliseum Museum will also be allowed to vote for their favorite art piece with the People’s Choice Award Winner announced at the close of the exhibition.

:: STAY TUNED ::
I'll be posting the 4 pieces that were chosen to showcase my Fine Art Photography in the coming days, so be sure to check back soon!

*** the image in the post is NOT MY IMAGE! It’s the one the museum used for the article - check out the comments for my images 🤗 ***

>> DID YOU KNOW?

The Coliseum Museum in Oregon, IL is pleased to announce the opening of the Focus on Photography Art Exhibit featuring 26 artists with a total of 52 works of art on display from April 4 – May 17.

03/26/2025

:: TONIGHT! ::

Join us for a celebration of creativity and community as we unveil the newest Scenic Art Loop by ARRT map - the Driftless region's exclusive art guide!

When: TONIGHT - Doors open at 4pm
Where: Voices Studios | 1585 Central Ave - Dubuque, IA
Why: To celebrate and grab your map so you can Escape - Explore - Experience art!

>> LIVE JAZZ music performed by University of Dubuque, Loras, and Clarke University art department students!

Dubuque County Fine Arts Society Dubuque Arts Council AllTogether Dubuque Art in Dubuque Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce Dubuque Main Street City of Dubuque Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs Stephonie Schmitz We Create DBQ Travel Dubuque

Send a message to learn more

02/18/2025

:: SUPER SALE!!! ::

I have a few 2025 Calendars left in stock! We are now into the year and I would like to share what inventory I have left!

> NOW $20!! While supplies last!

> Local pick up (Dubuque, IA) or add shipping

> Message me or comment below to get your one-of-a-kind art piece that keeps on giving throughout the year

:: What people are saying...

"Calendar and puzzle arrived today. Beautiful! Thank you so very much. We have been everywhere shown in your calendar. The pictures are both spectacular and bring happy memories. Thank you again. Cheers!"

"Thank you talented lady for the beautiful calendar!"

"The calendar is awesome, just opened it!"

"I received the calendar in the mail today. Hard to pick a fave. But your next trip/photo shoot, I'll carry the equipment!"

"I can't thank you enough for the beauty I get to see throughout the year!"

"I knew I already loved your photography, but this is one of the nicest quality calendars I have every had!"

Scenic Art Loop by ARRT Stephonie Schmitz AllTogether Dubuque Dubuque Arts Council Art in Dubuque

12/17/2024

:: NEW ITEM ANNOUNCEMENT::

Look what came in, just in time for the holidays!

My “Tranquil Surface, Boundless Depths” fine art print on a 1,000 piece Jigsaw Puzzle!

- high quality materials and print
- 19.75” x 28” when put together
- shrink wrapped
- a fun way to get a large format print!
- 50 trees planted in areas where needed most for each puzzle purchase (partnership with GiveBackToNature.org)
- $65 plus shipping (if needed) - comment below or message me for purchasing!

*** All puzzle options are now IN STOCK!! See comments below for options

* SUPPORT LOCAL * SHOP LOCAL * SUPPORT ART *

Scenic Art Loop by ARRT Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa SAO D-ZYNZ, Inc. Stephonie Schmitz AllTogether Dubuque City of Dubuque Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs Dubuque County Fine Arts Society Dubuque Arts Council