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When you’re getting ready for a photo session—whether it’s branding, boudoir, maternity, or something just for you—there’s one element that can instantly elevate the entire experience: professional hair and makeup.
Not because you need it.
But because it lets you breathe, soften, and settle into the moment with confidence.
A great makeup artist doesn’t just help you look put together—they help you feel ready. And when you feel good before you even step in front of the camera?
It shows up in every photo.
Meet Kierra – A Calming, Grounding Presence in Riverview, FL
Kierra is the owner of Kies to Beauty, and she brings so much more than brushes and blush to the table. She has this grounded, encouraging energy that makes my clients feel at ease the moment they sit in her chair.
Whether it’s your first branding session, a postpartum glow-up, or a boudoir experience after years of pouring into everyone but yourself—Kierra gets it. She listens. She hypes you up when needed. She adjusts without ego. And she always enhances what makes you you.
There’s no “makeover” energy—just alignment, softness, and a little glam that fits your vibe.
Why the Right HMUA Matters (and What to Look For)
Makeup for photography is different than what you’d wear for a night out. A skilled artist understands how your look will translate on camera:
- How to highlight without harshness
- What lasts through lighting, flash, and time
- How to avoid SPF flashback
- The balance between glow and glam
But more than technique—it’s about trust.
You’re already showing up in a vulnerable space. You’re letting yourself be seen. The right artist makes you feel like you’re in safe hands—not like you’re playing dress-up in someone else’s face.
Hair & Makeup Isn’t About Perfection—It’s About Relief
Adding hair and makeup to your session isn’t a luxury—it’s support.
It means you don’t have to stress over your eyeliner, your curls, or whether your concealer will last. You get to walk in feeling prepared, cared for, and already a little pampered before I even lift the camera.
You sit back. You breathe. You soften.
And the energy that creates? It radiates in every photo
Tips for Choosing a Makeup Artist for Your Session
If you’re booking someone for your shoot, here’s what I recommend asking yourself:
- Does their portfolio match your vibe? Look for clean, consistent work that enhances (not hides).
- Do they have photo session experience? Lighting and camera-ready makeup is its own thing.
- Do they make you feel safe? You want calm energy, not chaos on your shoot day.
- Do they collaborate with you? Great artists take your lead and help you shine—not just paint over you.
Why I Love Pairing Glam with My Tampa Studio
My Tampa studio is one of my favorite spaces for branding, maternity, and lifestyle portrait work. It’s got clean light, warm styling, and the kind of calm vibe that makes everything feel effortless.
Paired with professional hair and makeup?
You get a gallery that moves from soft and candid to sharp and scroll-stopping—with no stress in between.
I’ve had clients use it for rebranding shoots, soft postpartum portraits, and bold boudoir—all with Kierra’s beautiful glam giving them that extra confidence boost
Why I Keep Coming Back to Kierra
Kierra has worked with so many of my clients, and every single one has walked away feeling seen. She adapts to the energy in the room—some people need calm and quiet, others need a full pep talk with lashes—and she does both beautifully.
Her work is clean. Timeless. Elevated. But more importantly? She helps you feel like the best version of yourself.
And when you feel like that?
You show up differently. You shine.
Thank you for reading my blog. I love sharing what goes on behind the scenes and the people who help make these sessions feel effortless. If you’re thinking about booking a session—or you want in on the next one with Kierra—click here to get in touch.
And don’t forget to join my email list to get early access to session openings, mini events, and special glam collabs before they sell out.
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I absolutely love photographing women in business. There’s just something next-level about helping another woman step into her brand, own her message, and show up with total confidence. And this session with the powerhouse behind Sunflower Socials was all that and more.
Shot entirely in my Tampa photography studio, this branding session had that perfect balance of fun and fierce. We created a whole mix of content—from polished headshots to relaxed, lifestyle moments she can use across her social platforms, website, and marketing. The result? A gallery that feels authentic, aligned, and totally her.
Why Branding Photos Matter
Let’s be honest—your business is personal. It’s not just your product or service. It’s your energy. Your values. Your why. And your photos should reflect that.
That’s where branding sessions come in. With the right imagery, you can:
- Build instant connection with your audience
- Show up consistently and professionally
- Create content that actually feels like you
- Save yourself time and stress when it comes to marketing
This session was such a beautiful reminder of how powerful it is when a woman stands fully in who she is—and uses that to fuel her brand.
What We Shot (And Why It Works)
We kept the session relaxed, fun, and full of variety. We shot content that felt aligned with her tone and aesthetic—light, warm, confident, and a little playful. From flat lays to behind-the-laptop moments to power poses with her coffee in hand, it was the kind of session that gives you options for months.
That’s the beauty of doing branding photos in a Tampa studio—we’re not battling heat, wind, or busy public spaces. We’re able to curate the environment so every detail speaks to your brand.
Who She Is + Why You Should Know Her
Okay let’s talk about the amazing woman in front of the camera: the heart and mind behind Sunflower Socials. She’s a social media strategist and content creator who helps women-owned businesses get clear on their message and show up online with confidence.
From content planning and engagement strategies to full-on marketing support, she does it all—and she does it in a way that feels approachable, supportive, and straight-up smart. If you’re a small business owner who needs a content glow-up or someone to finally take the stress out of socials, she’s your girl
Tips for Your Branding Session
Whether you’re launching something new, refreshing your look, or just ready to stop hiding behind selfies and screenshots—here’s how to prep:
- Bring 2–3 outfits that feel like you—neutrals with pops of color work great
- Think about your content needs: Do you want lifestyle shots? Product photos? Headshots?
- Bring your tools of the trade—laptop, planner, coffee mug, anything that tells your story
- Be open to movement, laughter, and a little sass—it goes a long way on camera
And don’t worry if you’re not “good in front of the camera.” My job is to guide you, pose you, hype you up, and make you feel like the boss you are.
Ready to Book Your Own Branding Session?
Let’s create something that actually feels like you—and gets your business the love it deserves.
Your brand deserves photos that match your energy. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor vibes, I’m here to help you create stunning content across Tampa. Let’s start planning your branding session!
Click here to get in touch