Some of the most powerful branding and headshot sessions don’t happen in a studio at all – they happen in a client’s own environment. I had the privilege of photographing an artist in her art studio, surrounded by her incredible creations. It was the perfect way to capture not just her portrait, but her story.
Why Photograph Clients in Their Own Spaces?
There’s something deeply authentic about creating portraits in the places where people actually work, create, or lead. For an artist, that means being photographed among canvases and paints. For a business leader, it might be in a boardroom or office. These spaces add layers of personality and context that a plain backdrop can’t always provide.
The Challenge of “Unfamiliar Spaces”
Of course, photographing in a client’s environment comes with its own set of challenges:
- Strange or mixed lighting – from overhead fluorescents to natural light through windows.
- Tight or cluttered spaces that don’t offer traditional shooting setups.
- Unpredictable colours and textures that can dominate the frame.
But that’s where adaptability and preparation come in.
My Approach: Adaptability + Portable Gear
I always arrive with portable studio gear to make any location work:
- Compact strobes and modifiers to shape light beautifully.
- Reflectors to soften harsh shadows or bounce window light.
- Background options if needed to complement the space.
This flexibility means I can walk into any environment – whether it’s a paint-splattered art studio or a glass-walled office – and create professional, flattering, and polished images.
In the artist’s studio, I balanced natural window light with controlled flashes to highlight both her and the vibrant colours of her work. The result? Images that were professional for her personal branding, but authentic enough to reflect her creativity and environment.
Why It Matters for Clients
When clients are photographed in their own space, the images tell a richer story. It shows:
- Who you are and where you thrive.
- Authenticity that resonates with audiences and clients.
- A personal connection that traditional headshots may not capture.
For my artist client, the final gallery wasn’t just a collection of headshots – it was a visual narrative of her identity, her passion, and her craft.