What is a DOP REP?

In the beginning of 2019, Desiree began brainstorming ways to grow her senior portrait business in Harford County.  In the Summer of 2019, Desiree launched a pilot program that she called her DOP REP Team which essentially was a Brand Ambassador team who helped promote the DOP Brand on social media and beyond.  This team of six girls worked with Desiree for their senior year in various photo shoots as well as a variety of community service initiatives. The group started to get noticed via social media and in the Spring of 2020, Desiree launched a formal application process for this team.  Since then, Desiree has had a team for every graduating class - over 150 seniors from all over Maryland have participated in this program. It's now become more than just a way to enhance the DOP brand, but it's become what the DOP brand is known for - a positive community of seniors who are all about raising one another up, building each other's confidence and documenting their senior year in the most creative way possible.  Have questions about Desiree?  Check out her bio here.​

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How does it work?

Each year, through an application process, I select a group of students from a variety of schools in the area that I feel display the characteristics, personality and ideals that represent my business. Throughout the year, this group joins together for fun, collaborative photoshoots in partnership with other local businesses and boutiques.  As a rep, you are the face of my business - models help spread the word by sharing photos of their experiences on social media and referring friends.  Here are some fun shoots that past teams have been a part of:  Taylor Swift 1989 Inspired Shoot, Ravens Playoff Shoot, DOP Gives Back - Prom Dress Drive Shoot.

 

What am I looking for in an applicant?

I am looking for outgoing individuals who love fashion and fun!  You MUST be comfortable in front of the camera and not be afraid to STAND OUT in a crowd, socialize and meet new friends.  Applicants should also be fairly active on social media.  You must currently be a rising junior graduating in 2027 and live within 40 miles of Harford County, MD, or willing to travel for photoshoots. 

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Is this program open for boys, too?

Absolutely!!  I will note that the majority of the group is female; however, I've had a few boys on the team in year's past and they really enjoyed the experience.

 

What are my obligations as a rep?

Upon being selected, you are required to attend a meet and greet event in late January 2026 (date will be provided during the interview round of the application process), sign a contract agreeing only to work with and promote Desiree Ortman Photography through the entire school year, and schedule your own senior session with DOP.

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Does it cost anything to be a DOP Senior Rep?

Currently, there is no fee required to submit an application; however, if you are selected, you are required to book your senior session with Desiree Ortman Photography during the 2026-2027 school year.  If you're selected to move on to the next round of interviews, Desiree will provide a guide prior to your interview that outlines all of the details for the program, including pricing information for your senior session.

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So what's in it for you as a rep?

As a DOP Rep you will have the opportunity to participate in various photoshoots throughout the year and receive the digital images from each shoot. 

 

You also get to take part in a farewell graduation shoot at the end of the year and get some awesome cap and gown and college send-off photos as a thank you for being a DOP REP. 

 

In addition, as a rep you're guaranteed a session and receive first choice of my calendar to book. In 2025, my Fall senior sessions were sold out by June, so this is your sure-fire way to make sure you get to work with me your senior year. 

 

You will also have the ability to earn digital images from your session for referring friends.  For every senior who mentions your name and specific rep code when they book their shoot, you will receive 5 digital images from your senior session for free!

 

You also will receive some DOP swag and have the BEST TIME EVER connecting with other seniors in the area!

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What is the application process like?

After you submit your application, you won't hear anything right away!  Desiree and her selection panel will review all applications and after, approximately 50-60 applicants will be selected to complete a FaceTime "Interview" and final selections will be made approximately 1 week later.

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If I'm not a DOP REP can I still get my senior portraits taken?

YES!!  I usually only take about 30 reps, but I usually photograph around 60-70 seniors from August-December which means I have time to fit in plenty of others outside of my rep team.  Reps get first priority in scheduling, but as soon as my 2027 REPS are officially announced, I open my books on March 1, 2026 for everyone else!

 

How many reps will be selected?

Approximately 25-35 reps will be selected for the 2026-2027 school year.