Tausha Dickinson · Nashville & Beyond
Headshot Tips, Studio Lighting, and Business Strategy for Nashville Professionals and Photographers
Studio lighting breakdowns, headshot guidance, behind-the-scenes from commercial shoots, and business strategy for photographers. Written by Nashville commercial and portrait photographer Tausha Dickinson.
Nashville · Franklin · Middle Tennessee · Worldwide
About This Blog
What it actually looks like
to do this work well.
This blog covers two things: what it actually looks like to do this work at a high level, and how to think about photography as a craft and a business. Some posts are written for clients who want to understand what they're investing in. Others are written for photographers who want to build something worth having. Nashville headshot sessions, advertising campaigns, studio lighting education, and business systems for working photographers in Franklin, Brentwood, and Middle Tennessee.
Tausha Dickinson
Topics Covered
Headshots
Why Your LinkedIn Headshot Is Costing You Opportunities
Your LinkedIn headshot shapes first impressions in milliseconds. The most common mistakes Nashville professionals make and exactly how to fix them.
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Advertising
Who Is Mary Louise? The Story Behind Tempo Hotel Nashville's Music Icon
Dive into the immersive tale of Mary Louise at Tempo Hotel Nashville. A commercial campaign built around character, storytelling, and Nashville's musical identity.
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Photography Education
One Light Photography Made Simple: Key Takeaways from the Lighting Workshop
Bounced light, hard light, modified light. A recap of the ONE LIGHT, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES workshop with real images, lighting diagrams, and what attendees walked away with.
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All Posts from the Blog
Browse by Topic: Headshots & Branding | Editorial | Behind the Scenes | Advertising | Photography Education
Your Google Results Are Your First Impression: Here's What Nashville Professionals Are Doing About It
Before you say a word in a meeting or send a single proposal, someone has already Googled you. Here's what Nashville professionals are doing to make sure what they find actually converts.
Branding Headshots for Women: What to Expect, What to Wear, and What to Demand
A strong branding headshot does three things: communicates competence, feels approachable, and looks current. Here is how to get there, from wardrobe to photographer selection to session prep.
Why Your LinkedIn Headshot Is Costing You Opportunities
Your LinkedIn headshot shapes first impressions in milliseconds. This guide breaks down the most common mistakes Nashville professionals make and what a strong headshot should look like. Here is what is quietly costing you opportunities.
How to Use a CRM as a Photographer (And Why It Will Change Your Business)
What is the difference between a photography business that runs smoothly and one that keeps you up at night? Usually it is a CRM. This guide breaks down how to automate workflows, improve client experience, and increase bookings with systems that actually hold up under pressure.
Headshot vs Branding vs Lifestyle Photography: What’s the Difference and Which Session Do You Need?
What is the difference between a headshot, a branding session, and lifestyle photography, and which one do you actually need? This guide breaks down each session type, when to choose one over the other, and how most Nashville clients get the best of all three in a single shoot.
How Much Do Headshots Cost in Nashville in 2026? Full Pricing Guide & What to Expect
Curious about what headshots really cost in Nashville? From quick LinkedIn updates to full-scale personal branding sessions, this guide breaks down pricing from $150 to $10,000+, what’s included at each level, and how to choose the right session to elevate your brand and presence.
Nashville’s Guide to Selecting the Ideal Photographer for Your Team's Headshots
In the grand production of business, your team's headshots aren't just photos – they're the lead characters of your brand's epic story. Picking the perfect photographer? That's like scouting the ultimate star for your company's hit show. But hey, no stress! I'm here to guide you through the casting call with my seven super secrets. Ready for the spotlight? Let's roll!
In the Spotlight: Behind the Scenes of the WSMV Channel 4 Anchors Photoshoot
Go behind the scenes of a high-energy photoshoot with the on-air talent at WSMV Channel 4. From headshots to full-length and dramatic studio portraits, this project captures the charisma and professionalism of Nashville’s trusted news team—all with creative lighting, expert posing, and a whole lot of personality.
Out with the Old, In with the New: The Importance of Refreshing Your Company’s Photos
Outdated headshots send the wrong message. When The Mainland Companies updated their branding photos, they didn’t just modernize their image—they reflected their culture, boosted morale, and elevated their team’s online presence. If your company photos are still stuck in the past, it’s time for a fresh, personality-packed update.
How To Create Branding Photos for a New Business // Eye-catching Images for Franklin Vision Care
When Dr. Annedrea Morreale opened Franklin Vision Care, she knew her brand needed more than just a logo—it needed imagery that matched her polished, professional, and approachable vibe. This branding session captured everything from staff portraits to product shots, creating visuals perfect for social, web, and print use.
Nashville & Beyond
Ready for photos
that do the work?
Executives, founders, network anchors, and NBA clients trust Tausha Dickinson for headshots and branding sessions in Nashville, Franklin, and beyond.
View Headshot SessionsFor Photographers
Learn to shoot
at this level.
Small-group workshops and private mentoring in the Nashville area. Studio lighting fundamentals, subject direction, and the business strategy that makes it sustainable.
View Workshops & MentoringFrequently Asked Questions
Questions About Headshots, Lighting, and Working with Tausha
What is the difference between a headshot and a branding session?
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. View headshot and branding sessions.
How much do professional headshots cost in Nashville?
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.
What should a professional LinkedIn headshot look like?
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. See the full LinkedIn headshot breakdown.
How do I look confident in photos if I hate having my picture taken?
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. Book a session and see for yourself.
What gear do I need to start shooting studio portraits?
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. See the full gear guide.
What is the best way to light a portrait with one light?
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. Explore the full lighting setups guide.
How do I hire a Nashville photographer for a commercial campaign?
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. Start a project conversation here.
Where is Tausha Dickinson located?
Tausha Dickinson is based in Franklin, TN, serving clients in Nashville, Brentwood, Cool Springs, and throughout Middle Tennessee. Studio sessions are available in Franklin, with on-location work available across the region and beyond. Learn more about Tausha.
What topics does this photography blog cover?
This blog covers two main areas: guidance for professionals and businesses seeking headshots or commercial photography in Nashville and the surrounding area, and education for working photographers on studio lighting, workflow systems, and business strategy.
How do photographers use a CRM to run their business?
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 delivery. Read the full CRM guide for photographers.