Whether for LinkedIn, business websites, or personal branding, a fresh, high-quality portrait can make all the difference. That’s exactly why my recent client, Catherine, reached out—she wanted to update her outdated professional headshots with something modern, refined, and true to who she is today.
And what better place for a sophisticated portrait session than the stunning Stanford University, with its elegant architecture, warm tones, and timeless beauty, Stanford provided the perfect setting for a mix of classic and contemporary professional portraits.
During our session, we focused on creating portraits that felt confident, approachable, and polished, while still allowing Catherine’s personality to shine through. We selected locations with clean backgrounds, soft natural light, and a touch of Stanford’s iconic quad arcades to create images that balance professionalism with authenticity.
To ensure a modern and polished look, Catherine chose outfits that were both elegant and timeless. Simple, well-fitted pieces in neutral and classic tones worked beautifully against Stanford’s sandstone details. Small details—like natural yet polished hair and makeup, relaxed but confident posing, and a hint of personality in each shot—made the difference in creating portraits that felt fresh and current.
Since professional photos can be used for a variety of platforms, we captured a range of images—some more formal for corporate use, others more relaxed for personal branding or social media. A mix of standing and seated poses, candid smiles, and poised expressions ensured she had plenty of options to choose from, no matter the occasion.
If your professional photos are feeling outdated, I’d love to help you create modern, polished, and natural portraits that represent you at your best. Let’s connect and plan your session!
