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
Tethered Photography: Who Needs It, Who Doesn't, and Why It Changes Everything on Set
Tethering is one of the most valuable habits you can build as a photographer, but it is not for everyone. Here is the honest breakdown of who should be shooting tethered, who genuinely does not need it, and what it actually changes on set when you do.
AI Made Me a Better Photographer: Not How’d You Think
AI is not replacing photographers. It is replacing the version of you that spends Tuesday nights writing follow-up emails instead of resting or creating. Here is exactly what I use, what works, and where I still draw the line.
The 80/20 Rule for Photographers: Why Systems Beat Talent Every Time
Why do some photographers build profitable businesses while others stay stuck? The answer is usually systems, not talent. This post breaks down why workflows, client experience, and financial structure are the real difference makers.
Minimal Lighting, Maximum Drama: From 1 to 3 Lights in Artist Portraits
What can you create with one, two, or three lights and a Nashville singer-songwriter in the studio? This behind-the-scenes breakdown walks through five distinct lighting setups from a single session with Lauren River. Clean, cinematic, textured, and dramatic — all from minimal gear.
One Model, Five Lighting Setups: Maximum Impact, Minimal Gear
How far can you push studio lighting with just a couple of lights? This shoot walks through five completely different setups using optical snoots, V-flats, and classic Rembrandt-style light. Proof that bold, high-impact studio portraits do not require a truckload of gear.
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.
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.
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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.