What is Her Helm?

Her Helm is a portrait project for boat captains who identify as female. It is to normalize the fact that women are active leaders in the boating community.

Where are the photographs taken?

This project is for a portrait of you at your boat. You can be on your boat or on the dock next to your boat.

What if I own a boat with another person?

Whether you co-own a boat with your husband or your wife or a friend, if you consider yourself a captain on a boat, then I want to feature you!

Does it have to be a large yacht?

Your boat can be small or large, grand or simple. It just needs built-in auxiliary power (motor or sail), and to be large enough that it is generally kept in the water, not trailered. It could be anything from a sail boat to a power yacht, a crab boat to a cargo ship.

Do I have to own the boat?

You do not need to own the boat. Maybe you deliver boats for a living. Maybe you are a Navy Skipper. Maybe you are a charter boat captain. Maybe you are captain of a sailing team. You only need to be the main care-taker of the vessel to be in this project.

Is this only for licensed captains?

Nope! If you consider yourself in charge of the vessel, whether you’ve been licensed or not, you qualify for the project.

Should I dress up?

Whatever you normally wear to go out on the water is the perfect outfit. I’ll also help you with some tips about clothing.

What if I’m not photogenic?

People rarely think they are photogenic. Here’s the truth - EVERYONE can look great in a portrait. It’s my job as your photographer to set the scene and guide your position to create a great portrait.

Where can I learn more about custom portrait sessions?

Head on over to my portraiture website and contact me to learn all about the full portrait experience.

What do I get?

Thank you for participating in the project! In appreciation for sharing your time with me and allowing me to take your portrait, you will receive a beautiful matted 5x7 print, the same museum-quality print that I offer in my business.

I’m interested! How do I sign up?

The first step is to contact me so I can learn how you came to be the captain. We’ll have a conversation to start out. A signed model release is required. Then we create a portrait together and tell your story!