Inside a Full-Team Branding Session That Delivers Personality, Not Just Headshots
When AVKARE reached out to update headshots and branding images for 21 of their team members, they knew they needed more than just a photographer. They needed someone who could guide the experience, keep things moving, and make everyone feel confident in front of the camera. This is my second time working with their team! We photographed four distinct looks per person, did group portraits of the senior leadership team, and even fit in some outdoor shots. And we did it all without turning it into a 10-hour production day (because no one wants to be smiling on camera for that long—trust me).
Behind-the-scenes look at lighting setup for an AVKARE team branding session by a Nashville Photographer.
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Profoto B10x
Photek 46 inch Umbrella w/ Diffusion
Photek 60 inch Umbrella w/ Diffusion
With AVKARE, we carefully crafted a gallery of clean, confident portraits that feel cohesive and genuinely true to who they are as individuals. The entire process was not only fun and efficient but also elevated in every way, exactly how a branding session should feel from start to finish. And yes, despite all the hard work and creativity involved, we all survived the experience with our smiles fully intact.
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Two Profoto B10x’s
Photek 46 inch Umbrella w/ Diffusion
Hotel lobby by day, custom portrait set by… also day, but with a lot of lighting gear and an extra cup of coffee. We built multiple setups within the hotel space, styled them with purpose, and made them feel elevated while keeping the vibe relaxed and natural.
With over 20 people to photograph and four distinct headshot looks for each individual. This shoot was definitely no small undertaking. What truly made the process run smoothly was the foundation of trust we established with everyone involved. Each person felt well-prepared, thoughtfully styled, and genuinely supported from start to finish. We weren’t simply snapping photos; we were capturing and highlighting personality through the lens in a meaningful way.
This is where lighting really shines. Every location had its own color, tone, and reflection to navigate—but that’s what I love. We brought cohesion to each space using intentional lighting, quick adjustments, and just a smidge of perfectionism.
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Two Profoto B10x’s
Photek 46 inch Umbrella w/ Diffusion
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Two Profoto B10x’s
Photek 46 inch Umbrella w/ Diffusion
Yes, she looked amazing in that green (and yes, I told her). This is the magic of color, light, and posing all working together. It’s why I love brand photography—it’s not just about “getting a shot,” it’s about capturing a version of someone they’re proud to show the world.
Outdoor portraits can be tricky to master. Light constantly shifts, and backgrounds often become cluttered or distracting—but when everything aligns just right, it truly clicks. With the right gear in hand (and a few carefully planned sidewalk blockings), we were able to capture that same polished, professional energy outdoors as well.
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Natural Light
These are the carefully selected images that appear on the website, the pitch deck, and the company brochure. This is your visual handshake with the world, a first impression that speaks volumes. And the best part? We made the entire process fun and engaging. We kept the shoot moving smoothly, brought in the best glam team around, and always stayed focused on the ultimate goal: helping every person look and feel like the very best version of themselves.
None of this would be possible without the AMAZING TEAM!!!
Photographer: Tausha Dickinson @taushadickinson
Photographer Assistant: Anthony Romano @anthonyromanocreative
Hair and Makeup Touchups: Nissi Lee Beauty + Fatima
Location: Harpeth Hotel
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About The Author
My name's Tausha Dickinson and I'm a photographer specializing is headshots, fashion and commercial work. I live in Franklin, TN, just outside of Nashville, with my husband and my son!
When AVKARE needed updated headshots and team branding photos for 21 people, they chose a custom experience that delivered polished, personality-filled images in just one day. This Nashville branding session proves that professional doesn’t have to mean stiff—and that great team photos can still feel like you