Recent Projects
Nashville commercial photographer Tausha Dickinson shares behind-the-scenes shoots, studio lighting education, headshot tips, and business strategy for photographers and clients in Franklin, Brentwood, and Middle Tennessee.
The 80/20 Rule for Photographers: Why Systems Beat Talent Every Time
If your photography business feels inconsistent, overwhelming, or stuck, the issue may not be your talent. This post explores why strong systems, clear workflows, better client experience, and financial structure are often the real difference between photographers who stay stressed and photographers who build profitable, sustainable businesses.
Minimal Lighting, Maximum Drama: From 1 to 3 Lights in Artist Portraits
Want to see how far you can push your creativity with just a couple of lights? In this shoot, I walk through five totally different studio lighting setups using optical snoots, V-flats, classic Rembrandt-style light, and a few creative tricks in between. It’s proof you don’t need a truckload of gear to create bold, high-impact artist portraits. If you’re a photographer looking to level up your lighting without breaking the bank (or your back), this one’s for you.
One Model, Five Lighting Setups: Maximum Impact, Minimal Gear
Want to see how far you can push your creativity with just a couple of lights? In this shoot, I walked through five totally different lighting setups—using optical snoots, V-flats, classic Rembrandt vibes, and a few tricks in between. It’s proof that you don’t need a truckload of gear to create bold, high-impact studio portraits. If you’re a photographer looking to level up your lighting game without breaking the bank (or your back), this one’s for you.
Stop the Hustle, Start the Flow: How Photographers Can Work Smarter and Earn More
Tired of the nonstop hustle? Running a photography business doesn’t have to mean late-night edits, endless emails, and chasing invoices. By streamlining your workflow, automating tasks, and refining your craft, you can attract high-paying clients while working smarter—not harder. In this blog, I’ll show you how to simplify your processes, position yourself as a leader, and create a business that thrives.
One Light Studio Setup: How to Master Portrait Lighting With Minimal Gear
A one light studio setup is not a beginner's compromise. It is one of the most intentional approaches to portrait photography there is. In this guide, I break down three foundational lighting techniques using minimal gear: bounced light for soft, natural results; hard light for drama and edge; and modified light for polished, versatile portraits. Real setups, real gear, and the exact approach I teach photographers in my Nashville workshops.
Workshop with Felix Kunze - A Photographers Honest Review
I recently had the privilege of participating in a photography workshop led by the renowned photographer Felix Kunze. I was lucky enough to attend the workshop with my friend Anthony Romano Creative. From start to finish, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary, and I wanted to share my review with the world.
Capturing Confidence: Simple Lighting and Seamless Paper for Stunning Headshots
The Renaissance Women's Summit was all about girl power, networking, and feeling like a boss. And what better way to capture all that confidence than with some stunning headshots?
From Mylar to Tinsel: The Magic of the Focus Spring Fashion Shoot
Go behind the scenes of the nFocus Spring Fashion Shoot, where shimmering Mylar backdrops met high fashion and creative lighting. From bold gowns to radiant glam, this editorial session brought the magic of spring to life in the most stylish way. Come see how we turned tinsel into pure gold!
Get Creative // Portraits Don’t Have to be Perfect
Not all portraits need to play it safe. For Amanda Dease of Studio Dease, going bold with color, blur, and a disco ball helped her make a powerful visual statement. This creative branding session proves that when portraits reflect your energy, they make an unforgettable impression.
5 Photography Business Mistakes That Are Costing You Clients (And How to Fix Them)
Running a photography business takes more than creativity—it takes systems, strategy, and balance. If you're struggling with burnout, inconsistent workflows, or slow growth, you might be making one of these five common mistakes. The good news? They're totally fixable.
How To Use The Space Around You for Fantastic Headshots
Learn how to take your headshot photography to the next level by using creative environments instead of plain backdrops. In this behind-the-scenes look at a session for Wildhorse Saloon’s leadership team, I share how One Fourteen’s neutral yet dynamic space brought personality and polish to each portrait.
Do You Know Why Bounced Light is So Important?
Don’t underestimate the power of bounced light! Whether you’re in a tight space or without a modifier, knowing how to bounce your flash can elevate your portraits. In this post, I break down how I used bounced light for a hallway portrait of Ava and share tips for controlling shadows, using neutral surfaces, and why angling your strobe just right can create stunning results. More practice = more profit. Let’s dive in!
Behind the Frame | One Light Dramatic Portraits
What happens when editorial fashion meets bridal branding? During a creative session with Angelina Lopez of Velour Events, we transformed a hallway into a dramatic portrait scene using just one light and a frame installation by Overton Arts. With texture, shadow, and simple lighting, we crafted timeless, bold imagery that makes a lasting impact.
How to Use the MagMod MagBox Outdoors for Off-Camera Flash Portraits // Nashville Photographer
One of my absolute favorite tools is the MagMod MagBox. It's just the right size for a variety of uses and it's ? MAGNETIC. You can use it with speed lights, or if you get the mount adapter you can use it with your strobe lighting as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Place a single key light at a 45-degree angle, slightly above eye level, angled down toward the subject. This creates natural shadow and dimension without additional gear. A softbox or umbrella adds softness and control.
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A headshot is a single polished portrait for LinkedIn or professional profiles. A branding session is a broader shoot that captures your personality, environment, and story across multiple images for use across your website, social media, and marketing.
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Nashville headshot pricing typically ranges from $150 for a mini session to $1,500 or more for a full personal branding session. Investment depends on session length, number of final images, and whether hair and makeup is included.
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It should be recent, well lit, show your face filling 60 to 70 percent of the frame, and reflect your current career level. Avoid car selfies, group photo crops, harsh overhead lighting, and heavy filters.
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Confidence in front of the camera comes from direction, not personality. A skilled photographer guides your posture, expression, and movement so the result looks natural even if you felt awkward the whole time.
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One quality strobe, a softbox or umbrella, and a clean background are enough to create professional studio portraits. Lighting knowledge matters far more than the number of lights or the cost of your kit.
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Look for a commercial photographer with a portfolio that includes brand, advertising, or editorial work. Review their approach to art direction and subject guidance alongside their technical skills.
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A CRM automates client communication, contracts, invoices, and follow-ups. For photographers, tools like Dubsado reduce admin time and create a consistent client experience from first inquiry to final