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A photographer in black attire holding a camera near a red and white doorway outdoors.

Chanda Ounkong

Owner & Freelance Photographer

My name is Chanda (Shawn-Duh), and I'm the owner and lead photographer of Chanda Ounkong Photography, based in Eagan, MN, serving the surrounding Twin Cities area. Born and raised in Austin, Minnesota, my hometown will always hold a special place in my heart. My photography journey began back in middle school with a light blue Sony camera, capturing everything around me. However, it wasn’t until 2014, when I took my cousin’s senior photos, that I realized photography was my true passion.


Since then, it has been an incredible journey. I specialize in portraits, events, and weddings, striving to capture the unique essence and personality of each person and special moment. Whether through the lens or in life, I am driven by a love for storytelling and connecting with people. As the lead photographer, I’m dedicated to ensuring that every session is a memorable and enjoyable experience for my clients.


I can’t wait to help you capture your special moments and tell your story through my photography.


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A person in a purple polo shirt with tattoos sitting on rocks near a waterfall.

Josh Erickson

Assistant Photographer & Freelance Graphic Designer

I'm Josh, Chanda's assistant photographer. Sometimes, you'll see me tagging along with Chanda and assisting her during your sessions, but mostly, you'll find me being her second photographer during your wedding. I love capturing those special, candid moments that make each wedding unique and unforgettable.


Outside of photography, I'm also a freelance graphic designer. I can create anything from logos to invitations and make original images for you to use during events or weddings.  My design skills complement my photography work, allowing me to bring a creative and detailed eye to everything I do.


When I'm not working on photography or design projects, you can catch me working on 3D printing or honing my tattooing skills. I’m always looking for new ways to express my creativity and stay inspired. 


Portfolio: https://www.hypogeandesign.com/



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About My Photographs


I specialize in crafting images that are rich in color and emotion, focusing on both dark and light aesthetics that are simple yet strikingly clean. My work is characterized by the use of saturated colors that bring depth and vibrancy to each composition. Whether through dark, moody setups that evoke mystery and introspection or light, airy scenes that feel fresh and uplifting, my edits are always clean and polished, tailored to the mood and message of the session.


In every photo shoot, I strive to capture and highlight the unique individuality of my clients. I believe that everyone has a story that deserves to be told as beautifully and authentically as possible. I love incorporating creative photo props (like color smoke bombs), adding a layer of originality and fun that enhances the personal touch of each photograph.


My approach is that photo sessions are deeply collaborative. I work closely with my clients to understand their visions and preferences, making sure that every session not only captures their essence but also exceeds their expectations. The goal is to create memorable, evocative images that clients will treasure for years to come.


Behind the Scene


Video Coming Soon!

A photographer captures a wedding moment by a fountain with flowing veil in the breeze.

My Journey into Photography


Since I was introduced to darkroom photography in middle school, I’ve been captivated by the art form. The process of capturing and developing images sparked a passion in me that has only grown over the years. It’s a dream of mine to one day build a darkroom in my home and perhaps offer film photography sessions to share this classic craft with others. I graduated from Austin High School in 2015 and furthered my education at Rochester Community and Technical College, where I earned a Liberal Arts and Science Degree along with a Photography Certificate in 2019.


My educational journey didn’t stop there. In Fall 2022, I transferred to St. Cloud State University to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Communications, and graduated with honors in December 2024. This academic experience is helping me refine my skills and broaden my knowledge in communication, which I bring into my work as a photographer.


Behind the Lens: My Life

Person poses confidently against wooden window panel background in stylish outfit.
Large group celebrates joyfully at indoor event with dramatic lighting.
Group photo of wedding party members wearing colorful formal attire in wine cellar setting.
Couple shares intimate moment while relaxing on blanket in sunlit wooded area.
Person in leather jacket poses artistically with camera equipment at dusk.
A touching moment shared between two people on a porch bench.
Three people pose for a mirror selfie in a wooden-paneled room.
A group photo of people gathered outside a white Cape Cod style house with dormers.
Someone in a red skirt and black top poses playfully against white French doors.
A fluffy gray cat wearing a bowtie poses in front of sparkly green tinsel and colorful polka dot balloons at a party.
Creative food photography with colorful rainbow spaghetti against a white background.
A photo gallery display showing creative food photography with gummy worm art.
Two graduates in red attire relaxing on a manicured lawn with pink graduation materials.
Multiple playful poses next to framed artwork hanging on a gallery wall.
Stylish silhouettes walking through a brick archway corridor.
Long-haired gray cat wearing a festive bow tie poses in front of green tinsel backdrop with polka dot holiday ornaments.
A group of people experiencing a refreshing beer tasting event at an outdoor venue with sunflowers in the background.

Balancing My Passions


Outside of my photography career, I manage a full-time job, pursue my academic goals, and enjoy being a devoted cat mom. I love staying active and embracing the various challenges and opportunities that come my way.


Embracing My Lao Heritage


Being Lao is a big part of who I am. My heritage has taught me to see the beauty in every moment and the importance of capturing genuine, heartfelt experiences. These lessons from my background guide my work as a photographer, helping me create images that reflect the true essence of the moments I capture.


Here's a Fun Fact


I’m a bit of a camera enthusiast (okay, maybe more than just a bit!). My collection includes Polaroid, vintage, and classic film cameras, each with a unique charm. I love the nostalgia and artistry of these cameras—they hold a special place in my heart. I’m always on the lookout for new additions to my collection!