LivTech Sales Force

I spent two days at the Emory Conference Center with LivTech during their sales force convention. They flowed in and out of the lecture and brainstorming sessions, and in and out of my headshot chair.

Meeting the representatives of this corporations gave me such a lovely taste of their company culture. As a whole, they were delightful: friendly, clever, a sense of humor. A joy to work with.

Behind the scenes:

Thank you to Rachel for the introduction!!!

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, headshot, photography, photographer, corporate photography
The CFO I've Known For Decades

Fay Ann and I go back longer than I want to say. (Fine. 27 years. Go Dawgs.) I’m thrilled that when she was transitioning work and looking for new headshots, our mutual, Stacey, sent her my way.

Fay Ann started by sending a couple AI headshots she had paid for. She liked the vibe: bright, white, vibrant. But her family gave her the big thumbs down to the AI. It just wasn’t her. Because it wasn’t.

So I set to work recreating the vibe, but adding the actual person to the image. For this, I put my lighting OUTSIDE, with a big diffuser, flashing through the curtains, and a reflector bouncing on the other side.

Fay Ann is so excited for her new endeavor. In her words: “I am delighted to announce that I have joined Fluidra North America as CFO.

Fluidra is a global leader in the pool and wellness industry, known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality. I am incredibly excited to partner with such a talented team to drive strategic growth and operational excellence in 2026 and beyond.”

I’m so excited for Fay Ann and for her new adventure.

ClientsRachel Linkwaldcfo, headshots, head shot, Fluidra, headshot, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot
Comfortable Eyes, Big Smile

Erica took a big leap. She’s loved working as an optometrist at a local office, and continues to do so, but felt she could fill a niche. So she opened her own practice, Intown Dry Eye Care, in downtown Decatur.

She’s got a LOT going on in her gorgeous self-designed space. She tackles dry eye and ocular aesthetic treatments designed to rejuvenate your eyes and enhance overall eye health. She offers a comprehensive approach to your eye health, considering nutritional, systemic, environmental, and other influencing factors. She also offers aesthetic work, including facial treatments with the Lumenis OptiLight IPL.

Working with Erica has been a blast. We hit it off immediately when she came into the studio for headshots, and then when her space was ready, I went to her to capture the action. Very impressive stuff. And super fun friends.

ClientsRachel Linkwaldoptometrist, headshot, headshots, head shot, branding, commercial photographyComment
Here, There, Hire Mira

I’ve known Mira a loooong time. She’s smart. She’s warm. She’s a straight shooter.
And have had the pleasure of photographing her through all the big things.

Like HER WEDDING
And HER FAMILY

But now she’s making another transition. She’s looking for work as she and her family become Olim.

She has over eight years of experience in CRM data management and analysis across diverse industries. She’s looking for a match, either remotely, or in the Eretz. Learn all about her and hook her up here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirafreedman

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, Atlanta head shot, atlanta headshot, headshotComment
The Tie Free Doc

I hadn’t met Josh before. He’s been here, there, and everywhere in-between for medical school and rotations. But as he prepares for residency, applications loom. He needed a headshot, and I got him into the studio ASAP.

He said he wanted two looks: one with the tie, appropriate for applications, and one without: true to his own nature and preferences. He is pursuing work as a Psychiatrist, yes, because he can call his own dress code, but moreso out of his passion for helping others.

Josh is definitely a change-maker. His relaxed and humorous nature would put anyone at ease. It’s clear why he’s a match for his industry, and his future clients are in good hands. Wishing you an incredible journey, Josh!

ClientsRachel Linkwaldpsychiatrist, headshots, headshot, head shot, mental health, Israel, Medical SchoolComment
Through the rocky waters...

….Miriam will guide you. Whether it’s substance abuse, an eating disorder, anxiety, or life’s challenges, Miriam Herber CADC II can coach you through it. Her soothing nature, advanced training, and desire to communicate with thought and care will guide you towards peace, emotional regulation, and recovery maintenance.

Her company, A Softer Way , is ready to support you.

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, headshot, atlanta, atlanta coach, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot, coach, mental health, substance abuse, eating disorder
How it Started/How it's Going

It’s a huge honor to be able to turn a couple’s wedding day into artwork…

But wow, when they come back as a family…

There’s nothing like journeying through life with a family. Documenting their growth. Creating a vision together that tells their story, one they will show their children daily. I’m so grateful to be a part of their lives, and to witness it both in person and through the lens.

ClientsRachel Linkwaldfamily, family photography, family photo, jewish family, atlanta family photographer, wedding, growthComment
Credibility

Headshot and branding clients come through my studio door for a variety of reason, most commonly they are transitioning with their work. But not Kristina. Currently, she is a Medical Science Liaison specializing in solid tumor oncology (specifically breast cancer) at Novartis Pharmaceuticals in the Medical Affairs department. She has been in this role for 2 years, having spent the previous 12 years as a Clinical Oncology Pharmacist, most recently at Emory's Winship Cancer Institute.

So why the headshot now? She’s been invited to be a panelist at a national medical conference, and they require a headshot for the program's marketing materials.

My greatest appreciation to one of my best friends, Evi, for making the connection. Rooting for Kristina, that she crush the conference!

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, health care, headshot, cancer, breast cancerComment
Ephraim Herber

Having Ephraim in the studio was fantastic: normally, I coach the client to laugh for me. I didn’t have to. He laughed, on his own, straight through it. This guy knows joy.

He’s been a licensed nursing home administrator for 7 years, and is moving into a role for CHE Behavioral Health Services. CHE is a multispecialty clinical group dedicated to increasing access to mental health services and reducing stigma around mental health conditions.
As Regional Manager of Operations, he is responsible for managing relationships within facilities and clients, as well as tracking the productivity and effectiveness of the providers.

Hanging with Ephraim just may improve your mental health, as well.

CHE Behavioral Health Services

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, health care, headshot, mental health, atl, atlanta branding, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot Comments
Third Time a Charm

I’m thrilled to be a part of this family’s ongoing endeavor to celebrate their growth through family artwork.

When their first son turned three, they were living in another state, and celebrated the occasion with a photoshoot to cement the memory. They framed and hanged the images.

By the time their second son turned three, they were living in Atlanta, and I was thrilled to expand their gallery. It was a bright, summery session - a stark contrast to their previous session up North in the Winter. You can see it here.

Now, their precious daughter was turning three, and they wanted to round it out with a gallery that was “giving fall vibes,” to really give the sense of the changing of the seasons, the passing of the years.

We originally planned to meet at a park, but circumstances shifted, and we chose their backyard instead. Zero regrets.

The fall snuggles are captured forever. They will be admired daily.

The moment that takes your breath away: seeing it on your wall for the first time.

ClientsRachel Linkwaldfamily, family photography, three, sister, backyard, gallery, gallery design
Amy Uplifts Those With Parkinson's

Amy is doing such fantastic things in this world.

She runs the Parkinson’s Wellness Fund. They are a non-profit who supplies grants to individuals living with Parkinson’s to help them afford products and services that assist in their daily living. While most of the money in the community goes towards research, they focus on immediate help for individuals and their functionality. They are 14+ years into their nation-wide work, having provided grants to all 50 states and even internationally.

On a personal note, Amy recently moved to the Atlanta area last from Los Angeles, and I was immediately taken by her warmth, charm, and conversational ease. Not only did I want her to become my friend, but I wanted to connect her immediately with other friends (ahem, Jules)!
Welcome to town, Amy, and the Parkinson’s community thanks you.

https://parkinsonswellnessfund.org/

ClientsRachel Linkwaldparkinson's, headshots, branding, parkinson's wellness fund, head shot, headshot, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot
SBS Designs Atlanta

I’ve worked with Stephanie, providing both commercial and personal photography, many times- but our story begins long before then.

And I was reminded of that as we worked, reminiscing about old times and mutual friends. She wanted an image where she looked relaxed, natural, at ease, and it came easy.

So did the environment for our session. She’s an interior designer who has redone her own home top to bottom. The background options were limitless and stunning. We even considered her bathrooms, they were so fantastic!

Don’t hesitate to call in Stephanie and her team. Her own home is a mind-blowing testament to her talent.
https://www.sbsdesignsatlanta.com/

ClientsRachel Linkwaldbranding, atlanta branding, commercial photography, interior designer, interior design, atlanta headshot, headshots, head shot, headshotComment
The Brandenburg Estate Planning Law Firm

They walked into the studio, a bit nervous, expecting the worst. Most people who come in for a business image feel that way, it’s common.

I’m certain people come to them with their own butterflies. Just the idea of taking care of your family should the worst case scenario occur is daunting. But they promise compassion through the process. And having met them, I believe they deliver.

I offer the same. I gently coached them, we examined their images together, and made modifications until they were able to walk out the door, happy with the result, and proclaiming I made true on my promise that it “would not hurt a bit.”

Reach out to Mark, Michelle, and Helen, for your needs: wills, trusts, guardianships, powers of attorney, asset protection, and more. https://www.mylifetimelawyer.com/

ClientsRachel Linkwaldattorney, estate planning, atlanta estate attorney, headshots, head shot, headshot, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot, commercial photography
Comfort For You and Baby

Lori walked into the studio, and a fresh breeze followed her.

She was here for a few headshots, as she began her new endeavor as a Sleep Consultant for Wee Sleep. And I can see why she’s just the person you would want with you, when you are bleary-eyed and exhausted to the point of tears. She is so kind, so warm, and so genuinely interested in you. Conversation with her flows so easily, and you don’t want it to end. She’s excited for your triumphs, and wants you to succeed. I mean, naturally. All the time. It’s who she is. And it’s what makes her perfect for this role.

She needed different versions of her images, to accommodate different scenarios for her company. I told her no problem…

While I’m past the stage of needing a sleep consultant, (you, too, will get through it!), it was clear from our interactions that she’s the one to recommend.

http://wee-sleep.com/

ClientsRachel Linkwaldsleep consultanta, headshots, headshot, head shot, atlanta headshot, Atlanta head shot, branding, atlanta branding, commercial photographyComment
Birds of a Feather

I was at the TDSA end of school carnival when I met Chaya. She was warm, charismatic, and an open book. She filled me in on the twists and turns she’d already taken in her young life, but was optimistic about her horizons. And she had reason to be.

After touching so many lives in the Atlanta Jewish School System, she’s launching her next adventure up North with her Chosson. They were absolute birds of a feather, valuing humor, finding joy in each others quirks.

Vendors:
It was fantastic to have videographers Yaniv and Glenda join the Shayna Image team for this simcha!
The Meth Brothers brought the music.
Natalie Sokol catered and planned.
Rina Pollack makeup.

ClientsRachel LinkwaldJewish wedding, frum wedding, wedding, simcha, simcha portraits, atlanta wedding photographer, atlanta weddingComment
WBL CPAs

Chantal and I go back to the 90s, but our journeys spread soon afterwards. So I was floored to hear from her, in her new(ish) capacity as marketing director of WBL CPAs + Advisors! We chatted business, but made space on the call to hear all about where life has taken us each.

She had big photographic goals: not only showcasing who they are on their website for clients, but moreso, marketing to draw in more CPAs. Their firm showcases both established talent and new energy, both stability and fun. It was our goal to communicate both.

I was chatting about the breadth and goals of the project with my friend and mentor, Mark Hill. He encouraged me to hire on an assistant for the project, and connected me with Ken Schneiderman. Working with Ken was a dream. Sure, his celebrity resume will make your jaw drop, but moreso because the whole experience was so beautifully synergistic. Instead of operating with one brain and two hands, I suddenly had two brains and four hands, and the whole process felt like a symphony. I’m spoiled, now.

While individual portraits weren’t the focus of the day, there were a few people who needed updates.

Links:
WBL CPAs + Advisors

Ken Schneiderman

Thank you to Chantal for the great behind the scenes!!

ClientsRachel Linkwaldinvestors, ken schneiderman, mark hill, marketing director, cpa, atlanta, atlanta photographer, commercial photographyComment
Kim Kopelman

Kim has dedicated herself to the community for years. She serves on the boards of both Jewish Family and Career Services, and Jewish Women’s Connection. And after years of submitting cropped versions of family portraits as a headshot, she finally decided to treat herself to a real one.

When she spoke about her work, bolstering our community, Jewish and not alike, she glowed. She’s stepped into all sorts of rolls in her quest to make a tough situation for many more manageable, to smooth “the system.” May she and her efforts see strength and success!
Links:
Jewish Family and Career Services
Jewish Women’s Connection

ClientsRachel Linkwaldhead shot, headshots, JWC, jf&csComment
Redfin's Apartment Guide Article

Last week I was interviewed on VoyageATL, this week I’m a featured expert for Redfin's Apartment Guide, discussing creating a photographic gallery wall in your home.

Check out the article, along with tips from eight other experts, to help you design a stunning gallery wall that reflects your unique taste and creativity. And then reach out to me to help you create your own photographic masterpiece! Be sure to check out Artful Arangements: 9 Expert Tips for Crafting Your Apartment’s Gallery Wall. https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/apartment-gallery-wall/

And then check out my process here: http://www.shaynaimage.com/shayna-image-process

EducationalRachel Linkwaldredfin, gallery, gallery design, home gallery, article
The Creative Eye

Yelena is a powerhouse producer, friend, travel partner, birthday buddy, community volunteer, and dedicated family woman. She’s at the helm of FilmTribe, dedicating her aesthetic eye.

For her latest interview in VoyageATL, she had visions of an Israel-themed session. Big on blue, and magazine cover-worthy. It was a blast to think bold, and pull out the lighting gels.

The outcome is big drama, but it was all fun behind the scenes:

ClientsRachel Linkwaldproducer, film producer, FilmTribe, celebrate yourself, branding, atlanta branding, headshots, glamour, Israel, zionismComment