About
DAWN CHARLES
Photographer, educator, and creative entrepreneur passionate about helping photographers build thriving businesses while doing what they love.
With over 15 years in the photography industry, a degree in photography, and a deep love for teaching, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring thousands of photographers through my courses, tools, and resources. From crafting timeless presets to creating practical tools, everything I offer is designed to save you time, reduce frustration, and elevate your craft.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, my goal is to equip you with the tools and confidence to build a business that lights you up—because photography should feel as inspiring as the art you create.
DISCOVERING CREATIVITY
2004
Took my first photography class using Polaroids and discovered my love for creative expression, knowing I wanted a career in the arts.
FALLING IN LOVE WITH PHOTOGRAPHY
2008
Explored film photography in high school and spent my afternoons in the darkroom. This is when I fell in love with photography and knew I wanted to study it and pursue it as a career.
STARTING MY PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY
2009
Received my first DSLR camera, shot my first wedding, and began studying photography in the Fine Arts program at Cal State Long Beach.
BUILDING THE FOUNDATION
2013
Completed an internship with my dream wedding photographer, earned my degree in photography, and officially launched my business.
NEW BEGINNINGS IN OREGON
2016
Moved to Oregon and began photographing adventure sessions and destination weddings, traveling often and working in my element, surrounded by beautiful nature. This was also the year I launched my first digital product and co-founded Cultivate Workshop, beginning my journey as an educator - all while pregnant with our first baby!
CONNECTING THROUGH COMMUNITY
2017
Hosted the first Cultivate Workshop, where I discovered my love for the community aspect of this industry. Through Cultivate, we built meaningful relationships and fostered connections that continue to inspire me today.
LAUNCHING NEW OPPORTUNITIES
2020
Introduced Rise Photo Academy, an all-in-one platform to help photographers master their craft and grow thriving businesses.
EXPANDING EDUCATION PLATFORMS
2021
Started Take It From Us, a photography education podcast with Emily Magers, sharing insights and experiences with photographers.
SHIFTING FOCUS
2022
Transitioned away from shooting to dedicate my time fully to education, creating tools for photographers, and being more present with my family.
NEW CREATIVE ENDEAVORS
2023
Opened my first local photography studio, Twin Creative Studio, in collaboration with my best friend.
Why I Do What I Do
I’ve always been a creative at heart. Whether it’s photography, drawing, or design, I feel most alive when I’m creating something meaningful. But just as much, I’ve always loved helping others. Growing up in a family of teachers, sharing what I know and guiding others to grow feels second nature to me.
Over the years, I’ve learned that this industry isn’t about competition—it’s about connection. There’s room for all of us to thrive, and the best way to stand out is by embracing what makes you unique and lifting others up along the way.
This work brings together everything I love: creativity, entrepreneurship, and building community. Helping other photographers turn their passions into businesses they love is what keeps me inspired every day.
FUN FACTS
For most of my life, I lived just a mile away from Tommy (my now husband), but we didn’t meet until 11 years later—despite his best friends dating my best friends.
I love a good crime documentary or podcast and I’ve listened to almost 50 mystery/thriller books on audio this year, but don’t ask me to sleep alone after finishing one.
As a kid, I dreamed of being a set designer, a production designer, and even a cinematographer. My dad’s love for classic films and his days in Hollywood working as a stuntman totally rubbed off on me.
In high school, I wanted to be a photojournalist or work for National Geographic, and my biggest inspiration still comes from vintage magazines like Time, Vogue, and Rolling Stone.
I love staying active—whether it’s yoga, running, weightlifting, or pickleball with Tommy—but I’m just as happy relaxing with a cozy blanket and a good book or indulging in a spa day.
I’m super clean and organized because my ADHD brain thrives in order—messy spaces make it impossible for me to focus. Getting diagnosed later in life helped me understand so much about myself and how I work.
