When Leah Maselli, the creator of Pilates by Leah, reached out to me for a branding session, she had a clear vision in mind: she wanted clean, professional photos to showcase her updated offerings and introduce her new instructor. As a business owner with a growing presence, Leah knew the importance of maintaining a polished visual identity that reflected her brand’s evolution. She was launching new workouts on her Pilates app and expanding her team, and she wanted her updated branding visuals to effectively represent these changes while staying true to the essence of her brand. Leah wanted to connect with her current clients and attract new ones, and we set out to create imagery that would do just that.
We decided to hold the session at Leah’s Pilates studio, which provided a beautiful, airy space with natural light—perfect for capturing the clean, minimalistic aesthetic that Leah envisioned. As her branding photographer, I worked with Leah to curate a wardrobe that aligned with her brand’s vibe. Beyond the wardrobe, we spent a lot of time planning and organizing the props to ensure they complemented the space and showcased Leah’s Pilates expertise without overwhelming the photos. We opted for a few select props, like Pilates balls, resistance bands, and mats, which added texture and visual interest while maintaining the clean aesthetic. These props subtly highlighted the workouts and equipment Leah uses in her classes, helping to give potential clients a glimpse into what they could expect from her Pilates offerings. The props were chosen to enhance the narrative of the photos without taking the focus away from Leah and her instructor, ensuring that they remained the central figures in each shot.
To keep the session running smoothly and make the most of our time together, I created a session guide for Leah. It was especially important to capture specific workout poses for her app. The guide included a detailed schedule, shot list, and suggestions for poses that would highlight both Leah and her instructor’s expertise in Pilates. By having a clear roadmap for the session, Leah was able to stay focused and relaxed, knowing that we had a plan in place to capture the best possible images. The session guide also allowed for flexibility, ensuring we could make the most of spontaneous moments that felt authentic and natural. The outcome was a stunning set of images that not only showcased Leah’s new workouts and instructor but also captured the spirit of her Pilates studio—images that now beautifully represent her growing brand and will help her connect with more clients through her app and beyond.
Truly one of my most favorite sessions to date, Leah you are truly amazing! Thanks for trusting me to capture the incredible brand you have created! Xx.
LEAH’S SWEET WORDS:
“I had the absolute best experience with Nikki and Shannon for my branding photoshoot! I booked the shoot as a birthday treat to myself, and they made the entire process feel so special. From the moment we started, they made me feel completely comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Their energy was amazing, and their attention to detail was next level.
