Michelle Nelson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Lodi, California, specializing in maternal mental health. Through her private practice, she supports women navigating the layered transitions of motherhood—particularly in the perinatal and postpartum seasons.

Michelle’s approach is warm, authentic, and deeply grounded in lived experience. She’s built a space where women can come as they are, feel seen, and reconnect with who they are beyond motherhood. Her work blends professionalism and empathy in a way that feels both inviting and intentional—qualities that guided every part of this session.

Meet the Brand

  • Warm
  • Honest
  • Calming

The Vibe

  • Intentional
  • Approachable
  • Feminine

With an upcoming website refresh, Michelle wanted cohesive, intentional imagery that could live seamlessly across platforms—from her Psychology Today profile to Instagram—showing the same cohesive visual story everywhere her audience encounters her brand.

Her goal was to be seen as a trusted professional while still radiating warmth and relatability. As a therapist who openly connects through lived experience, she wanted photos that helped potential clients feel safe, understood, and supported.

Michelle wanted images that finally reflected where her business is now—more aligned, consistent, and true to her. Her first round of branding photos were taken before she had ever seen a client. Two years later, her practice, color palette, and confidence have evolved—and she wanted her visuals to reflect that growth.

client goals

The Beginning

How We Brought It to Life

her dream achieved

We began by revisiting her updated color palette of blush tones, deep greens, and natural neutrals—pulling from the warmth of her therapy office and her feminine brand aesthetic. I reviewed her website, Pinterest board, and social media to ensure the visuals felt consistent and true to her direction.

Deep Dive

01.

We built a gallery that would tell the story of her practice: a mix of lifestyle imagery, detail shots, and portraits. Along with candid moments that capture the heart of her sessions, like opening the door to greet clients, the in-session experience or taking notes mid-session.

Shot List Strategy

02.

Our session flowed with ease—real laughter, gentle prompts, and relaxed energy that let Michelle’s authenticity shine. We captured a mix of seated, barefoot, and cozy poses that felt true to the safe, grounded presence she offers in her therapy space.

Confidence in Motion

03.

We photographed in her minimalist, calming office in Lodi and a cozy coffee shop setting—both chosen to reflect the safe, inviting, and real-world feel of how clients connect with her work.

Locations That Match the Vibe

04.

Michelle styled three looks that mirrored the layers of her personality: a soft pink chunky sweater with jeans for warmth and relatability, a floral blouse with blush pants for a polished yet gentle aesthetic, and a classic white button down and jeans.

Styling that Aligns 

05.

“I can’t say enough good things about my experience doing branding photos with Nicole! I felt supported at every stage of the process - from talking through my vision and outfit planning, to thoughtful guidance about posing and details during the shoot. She made sure that we captured diverse elements of my business and helped me think about how this could translate to how I use the images in the future. I highly recommend working with her - you won’t regret this investment in your business.”

- Michelle Nelson

I can’t say enough good things about my experience doing branding photos with Nicole!

Her Words, Not Mine

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If you're ready for brand photos that actually feel like you—and help you show up confidently across every platform—I’d love to plan something intentional together.

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