Featured Project
Water Safe Swim
Julie Schiess is the heart behind Water Safe Swim, a program built on compassion, confidence, and community. For over 25 years, Julie has made it her mission to raise awareness about water safety—teaching children to become competent before confident in and around water. With a deep belief that drowning is preventable and education is key, Julie’s work has become more than just swim lessons—it’s a legacy. Her personal warmth, unshakable commitment, and connection to families shine through in everything she does. It was a true honor to celebrate this milestone year with her.
Meet the Brand
- Intentional
- Empowering
- Brave
The Vibe
- Calm
- Inviting
- Natural
These photos weren’t just for marketing. They were also for her children—to show them the power of pouring your heart into something for decades. She wanted to document the details that matter most: her beloved snack basket, the hand-painted poolside signs, and the joy and confidence she brings to her families every single day.
She wanted to be seen the way her students and families see her: as a calm, passionate leader who builds trust through warmth and expertise. The images needed to reflect her heart—visible in every lesson and every life she impacts—as well as highlight her team and the valuable services they provide to families throughout the San Joaquin area.
Julie wanted visuals that told a story—one that reflected her renewed energy and enduring passion for water safety. As she marks 25 years in business, this shoot was about showing up boldly and cohesively for herself, her clients, and her future. Her team strives to have a lasting effect across the community, empowering families with life-saving skills and heartfelt care.
The Beginning
We began by mapping out Julie’s journey, from swim mom to instructor to community advocate. I reviewed her website, brand colors, and the spaces she wanted to honor—from her home to her pool—to make sure every image felt personal and aligned.
Deep Dive
01.
Our strategy was rooted in real-life moments and meaningful touches that longtime families would instantly recognize—like her signature snack basket and hand-painted poolside signs. These weren’t just props; they were markers of the care, consistency, and personal connection Julie brings to every lesson.
Shot List Strategy
02.
We created a safe and supportive environment that let Julie feel at ease. Through guided prompts and natural movement, we captured her passion in action—her signature hat, the way she greets kids poolside, and the warmth she brings to every interaction.
Confidence in Motion
03.
From her kitchen desk (the heart of her home) to her poolside setup, every space felt like an extension of her brand. Clean, intentional, and personal—each one reflected the beauty and simplicity of her work.
Locations That Match the Vibe
04.
We honored the look she’s known for—seasonal wetsuits, meaningful hats, and a practical, comfortable wardrobe that felt cohesive and true to her calm, grounded nature. Every piece reflected her real-life presence: approachable, intentional, and unmistakably “Miss Julie.”
Styling that Aligns
05.
This session told a deeper story—of confidence, love, and the lifelong impact one woman can have on a community. Scroll through and you’ll see what 25 years of heart looks like.
The Results: A Scroll-Stopping Gallery
"Working with Nicole to capture such a significant and meaningful piece of my life was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, and it turned out to be even more powerful that I had hoped. From our very first conversation, Nicole grasped the vision—even when I struggled to articulate it. She led me through each step of the process, from booking and planning to the branding session itself, with intentionality, attention to detail, and a contagious excitement that immediately put me at ease and gave me complete confidence in what we were creating.
Nicole didn’t just take photos—she captured a milestone moment in my life that now lives on in images I use every day to reflect and represent this passion that defines me."
- Julie Schiess
This branding idea was deeply personal, and I knew it needed to be documented by someone who truly understood me. Nicole was that person.
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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