Tressie McMillan Cottom

Branding Session

Working with Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom for the second time was pure creative alignment. As a MacArthur Fellow, New York Times columnist, professor, and author of Lower Ed and THICK, Tressie brings unmatched insight, clarity, and cultural depth to everything she does. We shot at Westlight Studios with a vision of clean, elevated portraits that reflected her presence and brilliance. When she later shared, “When it was time to re-up my headshots I didn’t dally with looking for one. I traveled four hours both ways to go to the person I trusted. She did not disappoint,” and “@taushadickinson takes the best photos of me in the world,” I felt the full weight of what this work can mean.

That kind of trust is a gift.

Our team brought the magic. Kenya Iman styled Tressie with refined intention, beautifully shaping her as the “southern Black lady ushering in her future.” Nissi Lee added her expert touch with polished hair and makeup, while Anthony Romano, my favorite assistant, kept the energy high and everything running smoothly. We danced to ’90s R&B, laughed between setups, and filled the studio with joy. It was more than a photo session, it was a full-on vibe.

Together, we created portraits that honor Tressie’s complexity, confidence, and evolution. This wasn’t just about capturing a look.

It was about reflecting her power, ease, and future-forward story.

A vibrant branding portrait of Tressie McMillan Cottom in a bold red suit, captured by a Nashville Headshot Photographer. Her warm, confident expression makes this image ideal for interviews, book covers, and speaker profiles. A perfect example of pe
Photographed by Nashville Headshot Photographer Tausha Dickinson, this branding portrait captures a bold, editorial look perfect for media and professional features. The clean lighting, confident pose, and dark wardrobe reflect the polished, high-end
This full-body branding portrait features Tressie McMillan Cottom in a tailored denim look, standing confidently against a clean studio backdrop. Captured by a Nashville Headshot Photographer, the image blends editorial polish with a grounded, approa
A bold, confident portrait of Tressie McMillan Cottom styled in a striking red suit. This professional image, captured by a Nashville Commercial Photographer, uses a neutral backdrop and direct pose to reflect authority and leadership—ideal for brand
Captured mid-motion, this branding image showcases Tressie McMillan Cottom’s joy and authenticity. Styled in classic denim against a clean backdrop, it’s a fresh take on modern professional photography from a Nashville Commercial Photographer.
This lively studio portrait highlights movement and confidence with a textured, monochrome camel ensemble. A light-filled image that reflects genuine warmth, styled for dynamic branding by a top Nashville Photographer.
A vibrant and approachable headshot of Tressie McMillan Cottom, ideal for interviews or online profiles. This crisp studio image, captured by a Nashville Headshot Photographer, pairs modern energy with timeless professionalism.
This full-body branding image of Tressie McMillan Cottom in motion radiates momentum and focus. A clean, minimalist setup captured by a Nashville Commercial Photographer, perfect for thought leaders and speaker branding.
With luxe black textures and a joyful expression, this portrait strikes the balance between elegance and authenticity. Styled for editorial brand use, it’s a standout example of personality-forward imagery by a Nashville Photographer.
Set against a white wall with natural light, this striking portrait features bold color, confidence, and poise. A standout branding photo crafted for modern visibility by a Nashville Commercial Photographer.
A branding photo full of life, energy, and confidence. Tressie’s mid-motion stance in a red suit brings personality to the forefront—captured by a Nashville Photographer skilled in modern, movement-forward portraits.
A branding photo full of life, energy, and confidence. Tressie’s mid-motion stance in a red suit brings personality to the forefront—captured by a Nashville Photographer skilled in modern, movement-forward portraits.
With a relaxed pose and focused gaze, this professional portrait feels both grounded and intentional. A minimalist composition captured by a Nashville Headshot Photographer, ideal for editorial, press, and profile use.
Elegant textures and earthy tones give this branding portrait a timeless, editorial quality. Crafted by a Nashville Commercial Photographer, it blends soft style with quiet authority.
This power pose softened by a genuine smile showcases balance—polish with warmth. A clean studio backdrop and bold color make this a go-to portrait from a Nashville Headshot Photographer.
A branding portrait that captures calm focus and poise. With classic styling and a thoughtful expression, this full-length image is ideal for speakers, authors, or thought leaders looking for professional presence with personality.
This modern studio portrait features refined styling and a bold color palette. A poised expression and intentional wardrobe create a clean, elevated image by a Nashville Photographer for professional use.
An editorial-style portrait with soul. This relaxed, studio-lit image captures intellect, warmth, and style—designed for those seeking modern branding from a Nashville Commercial Photographer.
A strong yet approachable full-body branding portrait that blends clarity, presence, and simplicity. This clean, modern look is captured by a Nashville Headshot Photographer who specializes in portraits that feel real and refined.