5 Things to Know Before Your Headshot Session in Silver Spring, MD

A new headshot is one of the quickest ways to update your professional presence. Whether it’s LinkedIn, your website, or your company bio. And if you haven’t taken one in a while, it can feel a little nerve-wracking. The good news: you don’t need to “perform” or be naturally photogenic. You just need a few simple tips to help you feel prepared and at ease.

Here are five things I always share with clients before their headshot session in my Silver Spring, Maryland studio.

1. You don’t need to know how to pose

Most people come in worried about what to do with their hands, how to smile, or whether they’ll look awkward. That’s part of my job. I’ll guide your posture, angles, and expression in a way that feels natural and easy. You don’t have to practice anything ahead of time.

2. Bring one extra top—even if you think you won’t use it

A second option gives us flexibility with color, neckline, and texture. Sometimes the top you didn’t plan on ends up being the clear winner once we see it in the studio light. Bring 2–3 simple options and we’ll choose together.

3. Plan for simple grooming, not perfection

You don’t need to change anything about yourself to look good in a headshot. A quick brush of the hair, a bit of shine control, and clothes that feel comfortable go a long way. If you prefer professional makeup, go for a natural, polished look. Think “you, on a good day,” not a full glam session. Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry is right down the street and we can arrange for makeup ahead of time!

4. Leave extra time to get to the studio

My Silver Spring studio is easy to find with simple parking, but giving yourself a few extra minutes before your session makes a big difference. When you’re not rushing in, your shoulders drop, your breath slows, and you come in feeling grounded instead of flustered. That calm energy shows up in your pictures.

5. Think about how you want people to feel when they see your photo

Your headshot is more than a picture. It’s the first impression people have of your personality and your work. Do you want to appear warm? Confident? Approachable? Strong? Professional? We’ll talk about this before we start, and I’ll help guide you toward expressions and poses that match the story you want to tell.

A great headshot feels comfortable, confident, and true to who you are right now. If you’re ready for a fresh update, I’d love to photograph you in my Silver Spring, Maryland studio.

You can book your session right here.

Portraits of Purpose: Julie’s Story

Every so often, a session reminds me that a headshot can be so much more than a new LinkedIn photo.

Julie came in for one of my discounted sessions for federal employees that have been effected by the current administration, and from the moment we started talking, I just loved Julie. She had such charisma and was just fun and up for anything. She really leaned into the posing and just having fun. She exuded joy and grace during such a stressful and uncertain time in her career. >>And those blue eyes!

She currently serves as the Director for Publishing Programs with the National Archives, overseeing grants that help make historical documents available to the public. Think letters from George Washington or Abraham Lincoln, preserved and shared for future generations because of the work she directs.

Now, she’s exploring how to pivot toward leadership roles that connect her expertise in education, humanities, and philanthropy.

She also had a discounted mini makeup session with Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry so she looked amazing and camera ready!

It was an honor to photograph someone who has spent her career preserving stories from the past while courageously writing her own next chapter.

Helping Professionals Step Confidently Into What’s Next

Over the past few months, I’ve had the honor of supporting federal workers who are unsure about their employment through discounted headshot sessions. Each one has reminded me that there is so much talent, experience, and heart behind every résumé.

Mary was one of those people who immediately made an impression. She arrived after having her makeup done with Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry, who has also been generously offering a discount to federal employees during this season as well.

The images from her session reflect someone poised, capable, and hopeful. Sometimes a simple headshot session becomes so much more; it becomes a reminder of resilience and new beginnings.

I’m so grateful for the chance to use photography as a way to serve during this time, and I’ve loved partnering with other small businesses like Val to support these incredible professionals as they step into what’s next.

What Your Branding Photos Say About You (Before You Even Say a Word)

You already know first impressions matter. But here’s the thing: your branding photos are the first impression. Before anyone reads your copy, clicks your About page, or even learns your name, they’ve already formed an opinion based on your photos.

Visuals hit the brain faster than text. In less than a second, people are scanning your images and making assumptions about who you are, what you do, and whether they connect with you.

That means your photos aren’t just about looking good. They’re about showing the right things: authenticity, professionalism, confidence, approachability, creativity, or whatever traits matter most for your brand.

Here’s what your photos might be saying:

• You’re confident (or you’re not).

• You care about your business (or you’re winging it).

• You’re approachable, warm, and easy to connect with.

• You’re professional and prepared.

• You’re detail-oriented and thoughtful.

• You understand your audience and how to speak to them.

And here’s what they should never say:

• You don’t know who you are.

• You aren’t serious about your business.

• You’re trying to be someone you’re not.

So how do you make sure your photos are saying the right things?

Start with clarity. Know your brand personality. Are you bold and direct? Soft and calming? Strategic and sharp? Fun and quirky? Your photos should visually echo that vibe.

Plan with purpose. Every image should serve a function. A headshot that builds trust. A behind-the-scenes photo that reveals your process. A lifestyle image that reflects your values. These visual cues fill in the blanks before your words do.

And most importantly, be yourself. You don’t need to pose like someone you saw online. You need to show up as the best, real version of you.

Because at the end of the day, branding is personal. And your visuals are the fastest way to show people who you are.

Bright, Natural Headshots for Erin, Therapist at DC Metro Therapy

Erin, a Clinical Social Worker and therapist at DC Metro Therapy, came into the studio ready to update her headshots—and we had such a good time! Known for helping clients with trauma and insomnia using EMDR, she truly embodies empathy and professionalism

Despite not loving being in front of the camera (like most of us!) she was completely at ease, naturally fun, and open to creative ideas—exactly what you want in a session like this. Since her role requires connection and trust, we focused on capturing both approachable and confident expressions, mix-and-matching outfits and angles for variety.

In no time, Erin walked away with a collection of polished yet authentic headshots—perfect for her website, social profiles, or professional directories. These images showcase her as a caring, capable, and trustworthy clinician.

This was part of a signature session with hair and makeup by Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry before hand which makes everyone camera ready!

Curious how a headshot session can elevate your professional presence? Whether you're a therapist, consultant, or creative, I make sessions feel easy—and results feel like you. Let’s chat!

Don't Be Afraid of a Little Color: A Vibrant Headshot Session with Donna Butts

I love incorporating bold color in a headshot. My recent Signature Session with Donna Butts is proof.

Donna, Executive Director of Generations United and soon-to-be author, showed up looking amazing thanks to Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry. Her vibrant personality was matched by bold wardrobe choices and such fun color.

The result? Headshots that are anything but generic. Her portraits communicate confidence, warmth, and leadership.

Professional doesn’t mean neutral. Color can make your brand photos more engaging and more you.

If you’re planning your own session, don’t shy away from that bold scarf or statement color.

Ready to stand out with brand photos that reflect the real you? Let’s make it happen.

DIY Headshots vs. Professional Branding Photography: Why the Difference Matters

We’ve all been there—scrolling through our phone’s camera roll, cropping a halfway decent selfie and slapping it into a bio or website “About” page. And hey, when you’re just starting out or updating things on the fly, it works. Kind of.

If you’re building a brand, growing a business, or trying to attract the right clients, your visuals matter. A lot.

Here’s why that DIY photo might be holding you back—and what professional branding photography brings to the table.

1. First Impressions Are (Still) Everything

When someone lands on your website or scrolls past your profile, they make a snap judgment—and visuals play a huge role. A grainy selfie or random crop from a friend’s wedding might not be sending the message you think it is.

Professional branding photography isn’t just “pretty pictures”—it’s about showing up intentionally and creating a strong, cohesive first impression that reflects who you are and what you do.

2. DIY Can Look DIY (And That’s Not Always a Vibe)

Lighting, angle, background—those little things add up. A DIY photo might be fine for your Instagram stories, but on your website or LinkedIn? It can look out of place.

A professional session is more than just snapping a few photos. It’s about making sure your images match your brand’s tone, feel consistent across platforms, and give off the kind of polished energy that says, “Yep, I take this seriously.”

3. Branding Photography Tells a Bigger Story

A headshot is just one small piece of the puzzle. Your brand needs visuals that tell the full story—what you do, how you do it, and why people should care.

Professional branding photography includes lifestyle images, detail shots, behind-the-scenes moments, and personality-driven portraits that bring your business to life. It's the difference between “here’s my face” and “here’s my brand.”

4. You Get a Whole Library of Content (Not Just One Shot)

When you hire a pro, you walk away with a full gallery of images you can use everywhere—your website, newsletters, social posts, email signature, course materials… you name it.

It’s not just about having one nice headshot. It’s about having a whole collection that fits your content and evolves with your business.

5. Confidence Boost (Yes, It’s a Thing)

There’s something powerful about seeing yourself in photos that actually feel like you—and look professional. It’s affirming. You feel more confident showing up online. And guess what? That confidence is contagious.

Clients notice. Audiences engage. You show up more fully when you’re proud of your visuals.

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Visuals?

If your current photo feels a little “meh” or you’re tired of cropping yourself out of group pics (been there!), maybe it’s time to level up.

Professional branding photography isn’t about being fancy—it’s about being intentional. It’s about telling your story with clarity and confidence.

And the next time someone lands on your site or profile? They’ll feel that difference.

Let’s create images that finally feel like you—and work just as hard as you do.

Headshots with Jan! | Studio headshots, Silver Spring MD

I loved having Jan in my studio for a mini headshot session, —the perfect way to refresh her professional image!

Before stepping in front of the camera, Jan got a touch of expert glam from Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry. Val’s work always brings out the best and gives them that confident, polished look that shines in photos. Jan rocked her session and it was smooth and fun!

Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or business professional, a strong headshot is your first impression—let’s make it count! Need an update? Let’s chat about booking your own mini session.