What 500 Clients Have Taught Me
I just hit 500 5-star Google reviews. That’s 500 stories of confidence, authenticity, and transformation—real people who trusted me to capture them at their best. Every single one tells me something important, not just about my work, but about the people I have the honor of photographing. And I realized there are a few powerful lessons hidden in these stories that I want to share.
First, authenticity wins. Time and again, clients tell me that what they love most is how real they look in their photos. It’s not about the perfectly posed image or trying to fit into some ideal. It’s about capturing who they truly are, and that honesty shows. It’s what makes a headshot feel alive, personal, and unforgettable.
Second, confidence is transformative. Many people share that after their session, they feel empowered—not just in their careers, but in life. A headshot isn’t just a photo; it’s a confidence boost. It’s a visual reminder that they can show up fully, authentically, and unapologetically. That’s the magic I see over and over.
I’ve also learned that the little things matter. The way I guide someone to relax in front of the camera, the lighting, the mood in the studio—these details shape the experience as much as the final image. Clients notice it, and it matters. Every tiny choice, every thoughtful touch, adds up to something that feels seamless, personal, and luxurious.
Finally, investing in yourself always pays off. Time and again, clients tell me booking a session was one of the best investments they’ve made in their personal or professional brand. That’s a message I hope everyone sees: you’re worth it. You deserve to feel seen, confident, and in control of your story.
Every review, every story, every smile has shaped my journey. I am endlessly grateful to all 500 clients taken the time to leave me a review and who’ve trusted me with their story, allowed me into their moments, and shared their confidence with the world.
If you’re ready to feel authentic, confident, and truly seen, let’s create your headshot experience together.
PODCAST: Visible Impact with Nina Pomeroy
I’m excited to share the launch of my new podcast - Visible Impact.
The first series will be on my personal project “Her Words, Her Light.” I’ll be interviewing and sharing stories of incredible woman that participated in this project. To read more about the project visit HER WORDS, HER LIGHT.
Professional Headshots for Nonprofit Leaders
Had a blast shooting new headshots for Justin Sakogawa - President of Rockin’ Kidz Academy! Leaders like this inspire me—your photo should reflect the energy and passion you bring every day. Not only does it bring brand awareness to this amazing non-profit but personality and authenticity!
Capturing Confidence and Authenticity in Pleasanton
From Wall Street trading floors to downtown Pleasanton, I help people OWN their first impression.
Honored (and a little excited!) to be featured in the Pleasanton Downtown Association's Business Spotlight! ✨
From starting my photography journey 25+ years ago in Connecticut and New York… to creating a downtown Pleasanton studio where I get to help people look—and feel—their absolute best, it’s been an incredible journey.
No matter if it’s a signature headshot, an in‑depth personal branding experience, or a portrait you’ll love forever, my focus is always the same—delivering a luxury experience that helps you look and feel like the best version of yourself.
Along the way, I’ve cherished giving back through programs like Portraits For Patriots®, while also crafting exclusive, tailored experiences that elevate your personal branding beyond the studio—such as our intimate 2026 photo retreat in the breathtaking Umbrian countryside of Italy.
Huge thanks to Pleasanton for supporting local creativity. 💛
Read the full article here: https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/your-community/visit-pleasanton/business-spotlight-nina-pomeroy-agency-inc/
#Pleasanton #Headshots #PersonalBranding #LuxuryPhotography #LocalBusiness #PleasantonPhotographer #BayAreaHeadshots
La Vita Lente - Travel to Italy With Nina 2026
Ever dreamed of traveling to Italy with a stress-free itinerary? Italy with Nina is a 6-night, all-inclusive portrait and travel experience designed for women who want to feel empowered, seen, and celebrated—in one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s not just about stunning portraits (though you’ll get those too)—it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and soaking in the joy of Italian life.
This trip includes:
Signature portrait session with Nina in iconic Italian locations (Personal Branding or Keepsake Portraits of this special trip.)
Styling support + wardrobe planning
Roundtrip group transportation to Rome's FCO airport
Private room/bath accommodations
Breakfasts and Dinners
Group excursions + Italian food & wine
Connection with a like-minded group of women
📅 April 18-24, 2026
💰 Investment: $7490–$7,990 (all-inclusive except airfare)
Our last two Italy trips filled fast—so we're opening the waitlist early. With just 7 spots, this intimate escape is designed for those who appreciate beauty, connection, and great food.
This curated trip brings together all the things I love most—Italy, exceptional food and wine and real laughter.
We’ll stay at a stunning 14th-century palazzo—restored by my dear friends and is now a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel on the Umbria-Tuscany border. B-Corp certified and featured in Condé Nast and Robb Report—and yes, they produce their own olive oil! This itinerary is somewhat slow-paced to enjoy our environs and be present for it all.
If you'd like to be considered for the waitlist for this unforgettable experience, fill out the interest form below. We will be reaching out for a quick Zoom call to discuss all the details.
Don't Lie, You Judge Too...
At a recent local business event, I found myself totally distracted—not by the speaker’s message, but by his outfit. He was the manager, the face of the company, and yet… he wore a mismatched, oversized suit that looked straight out of a forgotten closet. His right-hand guy? Same vibe. Ill-fitting suit and CROC clogs.
And like it or not—we all judge.
When I’m deciding who to trust with my business, those first few seconds matter. I want to see polish. Confidence. Effort.
And it’s not just about what you wear in person. Your headshot—the one on LinkedIn, your website, even your business card—is speaking for you when you're not in the room. If it’s outdated, blurry, or taken in your backyard, it’s time to upgrade. A high-end, recent, professional image makes a world of difference in how you're perceived.
Because first impressions aren’t just skin-deep—they set the tone for everything that follows.
This is all about personal branding. If you’re unsure what personal branding means, or why even you need to pay attention to your own, get my E-BOOK OWN-IT. It has actionable steps to help you understand the importance and how to get there.
Or if you’re ready to show up as the face of your brand as the confident, polished and ambitious person you are, contact me for a free consult and we can do my complimentary Brand Strategy process along with your photoshoot. I won’t let you fail. I’ll make you look the very best you can be!
AI headshots might look polished—but at what cost?
We’ve all seen the rise of AI-generated profile photos.
I won’t deny that I’ve tried it…what would I look like with gray hair, or 20 pounds slimmer, or on a yacht with long flowy hair alongside Fabio… sorry I digress.
Here’s my point: when your headshot doesn’t even look like you, it’s not just a filter—it’s an identity shift it’s really damaging to your personal branding.
I know you’re probably saying, I don’t have a brand, I’m an employee at a large firm. Or, I don’t want to stand out I’m an introvert and would rather live in a cabin in the woods with my 15 cats.
The truth is:
Real connection comes from authenticity.
Confidence doesn’t need to be manufactured.
Your real face tells your story—and that story deserves to be seen.
I talk about this (and more) in my book, OWN IT – The Essential Guide to Crafting Your Personal Brand. It’s about showing up fully, unapologetically, and powerfully—as yourself.
Download my book. Schedule a complimentary zoom consultation and let’s get you looking pro!
MODEL CALL
We are looking for five expressive, magnetic, and delightfully unboring faces—think actors, musicians, creatives, or anyone who lights up a room for a new personal project.
Selected people will get a free studio photoshoot and 1 retouched image. If you or someone you know loves the camera—and isn’t afraid to show a little personality—send them our way!
We are not looking for perfect. I’m looking for real, expressive, compelling.
If you are selected you’ll receive an email with a link to select your photoshoot appointment.
To secure your time slot we’ll require a refundable $50 retainer. This will be returned after your session or you can apply it towards the purchase of additional images.
Send an email by July 5th to: studio at ninapomeroy.com and include a couple of recent selfies. If selected you’ll receive an email.
If Your Headshot Is Fake, What Else Is?
The fastest way to undermine your credibility is to use an AI headshot.
Let’s talk about trust.
Whether you’re a coach, consultant, creative, or founder, your face is often the first impression your viewer gets. Before they read a word you have to say, they’re looking you up on google and linkedin at your headshot.
And when that headshot is an AI image, overly retouched, or looks like a 10 year younger version of you, the message is loud and clear: “I’m not quite ready to show up as myself.”
You know what it also says?
“I’m not willing to invest in myself and my career.”
Ever notice that AI generated headshots give people weird glassy eyes, plastic looking skin texture and a stiff mannequin pose.
Or the how about the fake background?
Looking too perfect does not build connection. Authenticity does.
Clients, collaborators, investors—hire your expression, your energy, your presence, your confidence.
And how can you get that kind of presence in a photo? Well, it takes experienced coaching and technical skill by a professional photographer who specializes exclusively headshots.
You might think you’re saving time or money.
But what you’re really saying is:
• “Any picture is good enough.”
• “My image isn’t worth investing in.”
• “I have low self confidence to be seen for who I am.”
Let that sink in.
So, what’s the alternative?
Work with someone who takes the time to really see you. Someone who can guide and pose you and bring out your confidence—even if you think you have none.
Hire a professional photographer who understands lighting for your specific features and knows how to coach you into an authentic expression.
Because you’re not just getting a photo. You’re creating a first impression that actually builds trust.
I would love to work with you. Let’s chat on the phone, I’d love to share my process and how my studio GUARANTEES you’ll love your new headshots. After all, over 480 5-star google reviews can’t be wrong.
