In today’s digital age, where our online presence often makes the first impression, professional portraits have become a powerful tool to amplify personal brands and set ourselves apart from the competition. This is why I decided to treat some of the special women in my life to an extraordinary experience—Portraits with Impact (PWI). As the founder of The Collective: Women’s Empowerment Summit and Charlie & Sprocket Inc., an experiential marketing agency specializing in producing headshot experiences at events worldwide, I was eager to learn from the best. Julianne Costigan’s Portraits with Impact promised to be the ultimate masterclass, and it did not disappoint.
STEP-BY-STEP JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION
Step 1: Personalized Preparation
The experience began even before the actual shoot day. We were encouraged to curate mood boards and completed the PWI survey that captured our style goals, and personalized our experience to ensure that our photographs would genuinely represent who we are. This thoughtful preparation set the tone for what was to come.
Step 2: Pampering with Hair and Makeup Experts
Upon arrival, we were treated to a relaxing session with hair and makeup industry experts. With a sparkling refreshment in hand, we sat back as these professionals enhanced our natural beauty, making us feel like the very best versions of ourselves. It was a luxurious and calming start to the day.
Step 3: Styling with Celebrity Stylist Julianne Costigan
Next, we spent one-on-one time with celebrity stylist Julianne Costigan and her team. They worked thoughtfully and intentionally to swiftly modify and select the ultimate looks from the pieces we brought from home and from Julianne’s curated collection of women-owned brands and designers. Julianne’s expertise ensured that our outfits were meaningful, effortless, and reflective of our individuality.
Step 4: Capturing the Perfect Portraits
With our looks perfected, we headed into the photo studio to be photographed by Erin Leydon. Erin’s ability to make us feel comfortable and confident resulted in a series of unique and tasteful photos that exuded professionalism. We walked away with ten final edited images that speak for us when we’re not in the room. This woman is so talented, I am already looking forward to the next opportunity to work together!
Step 5: Exclusive Gifts & Surprise and Delights
The experience didn’t end there. We received a gift bag valued at over $500 and gained access to the Portraits with Impact Alumni community. This exclusive network offers invites to PWI events and experiences throughout the year, continuing the journey of empowerment and connection. A definite favorite touch was that Mercedes was there to bookend our day with a luxury ride to and from the shoot – talk about feeling like a star!
THE ESSENCE OF THE EXPERIENCE
What I enjoyed most about the Portraits with Impact experience was the sense of community. Women came together to invest in one another genuinely and constantly, from pre-production to the on-site experience. The authenticity of care and investment from Erin Leydon and Julianne Costigan’s team was unforgettable, and left a lasting impression.
WHY YOU SHOULD INVEST IN YOURSELF
I highly recommend that both men and women invest in this opportunity. It’s an investment in yourself, your personal brand, and your success. Professional portraits are not just about looking good; they are about communicating who you are and what you stand for. Whether for your online profile, website, social media, speaking engagements, or Zoom meetings, a great portrait can make a lasting impression.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Treating myself and the special women in my life to the Portraits with Impact experience was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It was a day of empowerment, luxury, and genuine connection. As someone who produces headshot experiences on a global level, learning from Julianne Costigan has been invaluable. This experience is more than just a photoshoot; it’s a celebration of who you are and the community that supports you.
