Brand Story: Bernadette

Silver Spring, MD

Let’s launch a fashion brand!

Bernadette reached out to me, wanting to have a core set of business portraits and lifestyle photos she could use to start creating marketing materials for her new fashion brand for curvy women.

She arrived to the studio a little frazzled and tired (DC traffic can do that to ya), but by the time she got out of the makeup chair with my go-to MUA, we were all besties and ready to have the shoot of a lifetime!

With her was her husband and business partner, dressed to the nines and ready to serve his queen. We decided all of our husbands needed to step it up because this man was oiling her feet to make sure she wasn’t ashy. And as we captured amazing shot after shot, he stood off to the side, giving his never-ending vote of confidence! Gold star for you, buddy!

We started the shoot in-studio, then made our way through downtown Silver Spring. We closed out back indoors, shooting in my recording booth, photos she could use for her upcoming podcast. It was a productive brand story session!

“To be honest, I was nervous and a bit unsure before working with Shala. I knew my business model and brand, and I knew she was a necessity, but as an early startup, I was unsure if this was right for me.”

— BERNADETTE COSBY

Joyful African American female with a beaming smile, wearing a stylish polka-dotted dress, highlighted by a monochromatic black background

Portrait of a cheerful black lady exuding happiness in a classic black-and-white dotted dress, complemented by the simplicity of a dark background

Black woman with a captivating smile in a chic black dress adorned with white spots, her joy contrasting beautifully with the deep black setting.

Happy black couple sharing a tender moment, with the woman in her polka-dotted black dress smiling at the camera, her partner in a sharp suit standing beside her

Charming couple with a glowing smile, dressed in a fashionable way, perfectly merging with the dark environment.

Gracious black woman in a playful polka dot dress, her bright smile standing out against the all-black background, embodying timeless elegance.

“When we started the session, I felt really comfortable!
What an amazing experience and it was thoroughly enjoyable! We laughed, we chatted and shared like old friends. It was a very rewarding experience and a great break from the cumbersome challenges that are often experienced in entrepreneurship.”

— BERNADETTE COSBY

Professional black woman in her polka-dotted dress, confidently smiling at the camera, with a bright white office background highlighting her poised demeanor.

Business-savvy African American female with a warm smile, working at her desk in a white, well-lit office space, showcasing a blend of style and professionalism

Cheerful black woman in a fashionable black and white dress, standing in her office environment, her smile reflecting her success and ambition against a crisp white backdrop

Empowered black executive in a chic polka dot dress, radiating positivity and leadership in her minimalist office with a stark white background

Black entrepreneur smiling contentedly, dressed elegantly in her office, the white background amplifying her presence and the modern aesthetic of her workspace

Black professional woman, beaming with confidence in her dotted attire, situated in her sleek office space that's bathed in natural light against a pure white background

“Once we were done, I felt accomplished! I was proud of the work we did together and was anticipating the photo reveal. I was on a high for several days.”

— BERNADETTE COSBY

Black woman with a captivating smile wearing headphones, poised in front of a radio station's microphone

Energetic black radio host in a chic dotted dress, her enthusiasm radiating through the studio as she communicates with listeners

“Upon seeing my photos, I couldn’t help but feel amazed, floored, and tearful. I was reminded that this was a necessity and immediately found a use for the images for my brand. I felt like a model! She captured so many fantastic moments! She was able to embody my personality, brand, confidence, and boldness through her images.”

— BERNADETTE COSBY

Black woman outside, beaming with joy in her vibrant orange dress, the fabric flowing gently in the breeze against a backdrop of a clear blue sky.

Confident African American woman in a striking orange dress, standing outdoors with a backdrop of lush greenery, her smile as warm as the sunny day

Black woman enjoying the outdoors, her orange dress a bright contrast to the natural tones around her, her smile reflecting the serene environment

Joyful black woman in an eye-catching orange dress, her laughter echoing the carefree spirit of the open air, with a soft-focus natural landscape behind her

Black woman in a chic orange dress posing with elegance on a sunny day, her cheerful demeanor complemented by the simplicity of the outdoor setting

Black woman radiating happiness in her stylish orange dress, the outdoor light accentuating her natural beauty and the dress's playful pattern

“I am already seeking new opportunities to come back to Shala for use of her services! Amazing work, amazing eye, amazing experience!”

— BERNADETTE COSBY

Black woman with a bright smile, wearing a white blouse with black dots, stands confidently against a serene blue background that complements her vibrant attire

Cheerful black woman in a dotted white blouse, her joyous expression lighting up the frame, set against a calming blue backdrop that echoes the tranquility of the scene.

Radiant black woman smiling directly at the camera, clad in a stylish white blouse with polka dots, with a soothing blue background enhancing her warm presence

Brand Story: Compost Crew Maryland

Brand Story: Elizabeth