This month I want to spotlight my recent brand session with Renee Hagar-Smith. Most branding sessions begin with a phone call. If I'm being honest, this is where most people probably decide within five minutes whether they want to book their photoshoot with me or not. It's often clear to both of us within that first call whether we're a good fit… and after that first call, boy was it clear that Renee was a perfect fit! She was just about to make a big move from New York to Boston to launch her new website as a leadership coach, strategist, and speaker. But what really stood out to me was her passion for human connection.
Renee's brand is built on the bridge between "Structure and Soul." It's sophisticated yet grounded: a leader who belongs in a high-rise boardroom but stays deeply connected to the human element. Her message is that you don't have to leave your humanity at the door to be a high-performance leader. As her Boston branding photographer, my job was to make her brand photography say exactly that.
Wardrobe Wins
Fun fact: Renee shopped for her wardrobe the day before her session, and she absolutely nailed it. Totally encompassing the humanity she practices in her career, who hasn’t had to pull together an outfit last minute for something important? Every outfit felt polished and on brand while staying warm and uniquely her, the exact balance her brand calls for.
Renee also booked with my tried-and-true makeup artist, Paula, for her hair and makeup. Not all branding photographers work with glam, but I believe it makes all the difference. Paula has a gift for helping clients look and feel like the most confident version of themselves, while also having the perfect touch for the camera lens. Nothing is more stressful than a full face that looks incredible IRL but doesn’t photograph the way you hoped.
Professional Headshots with Heart
We captured classic professional headshots and business headshots for her website, speaking pages, and LinkedIn, plus creative headshots and lifestyle images that show her personality. We kicked the day off with an hour long fire alarm test (can’t make that up), but Renee refocused immediately and relaxed in front of the camera like a natural. It’s not easy to have your photo taken but with a team of incredible women hyping you up, you can feel safe knowing you’re going to capture what you need. The job of branding photography is to show the whole person, the professional that you want to hire but also the person you can trust.
Looking for a Boston Brand Photographer?
Welcome to Boston, Renee! If you're a coach, leader, entrepreneur, or small-business owner comparing brand photographers, searching for a Boston brand photographer near you, or a headshot photographer anywhere in Massachusetts who will take the time to understand your story, I'd love to connect. Like every great branding session, it starts with a phone call.
About Emily
Emily is a Boston-based family and brand photographer who believes a great photo starts with a great experience. She specializes in candid, natural imagery — real connection over stiff posing, because the best photos happen when you're comfortable being yourself