I recently had a traditional studio headshot taken at a large corporate event — you know the kind: clean, white background, technically perfect, and totally polished. But when I saw the final image, I immediately thought: This does not work for me.
It was sharp, perfectly lit, and probably shot at f/7.1 with no falloff, no depth — just… flat. And while it was a solid headshot by industry standards, it felt boring. Not because the photographer did anything wrong, but because it didn’t reflect my personality, my lifestyle, or how I actually show up in the world.
Alright well, What kind of headshot do I want?
And the answer? Lifestyle headshots. Headshots that feel natural, effortless, and human. Photos that show you in your element — not just under bright lights with a white wall behind you.
I can take your lifestyle headshot anywhere – Why Coffee Shops?
I’ve been talking with friends and fellow creatives about this idea for a while now: offering lifestyle headshots for entrepreneurs and business professionals in coffee shops around St. Pete and Tampa Bay.
Coffee shops are the perfect setting for lifestyle branding photography. Branding images are meant to send a message – I am ready to do business with you (call me)!!! A coffee shop is a great place for a headshot because they are neutral, familiar, warm and inviting — not tied to any specific industry, which means they work beautifully whether you’re a coach, creative, consultant, or founder.
We live in a time where professionals wear multiple hats. You might be a marketer and a yoga instructor. My friend Melissa is a realtor, property manager, and has a jewelry and accessory business. My friend Stephanie is on air talent, content creator, artist and more! When you fill so many different shoes your personal brand needs images that reflect your versatility — photos that leave room for interpretation while still feeling professional, intentional, and approachable.
What Is a Lifestyle Headshot?
A lifestyle headshot is more than just a close-up of your face. It’s a branding image. It’s designed to show personality and context — to capture how you interact with your environment, how you move through your workday, and who you are behind the title.
This style of branding photography often includes:
- Natural lighting with soft shadows and beautiful depth of field
- Real-world environments like cafés, working spaces, or city streets
- A blend of candid and posed shots to keep things dynamic and authentic
- Wardrobe and styling that feels like you (but elevated)
These photos are perfect for your website, LinkedIn, press kits, social media, newsletters, and anywhere you need to show up as your professional-but-real self.
Strategic, Not Just Aesthetic
This isn’t just about pretty pictures. This is part of a larger vision for my own branding photography offerings.
I’ve done my share of traditional headshots on gray, black, and white backdrops — and I’ll continue to offer those, because they still have a place especially in the corporate world. But lifestyle headshots are where I see personal branding heading.
We want to connect with people. We want to see you — not just your resume.
So whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or modern professional looking to update your brand visuals, these lifestyle headshot sessions are designed to help you stand out with intention, warmth, and clarity.
Ready for a Lifestyle Headshot in St. Pete or Tampa?
If you’re craving headshots that actually feel like you, let’s talk. I’m currently booking lifestyle headshot sessions throughout St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay. I don’t just capture lifestyle headshots in coffee shops — I will work with you to find the perfect location.
Let’s create photos that work for your brand and feel like home.
CONTACT ME – Tell me about your branding needs!
