Today we’d like to introduce you to Leon
Hi Leon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, and photography became my medium for capturing those stories in the most powerful way possible. From the start, contemporary portraiture was what captivated me most, the ability to create striking, timeless images that highlight both beauty and personality. It’s still my passion, but over time, I found myself increasingly focused on headshots and personal branding photography.
I realized that while portraits capture a person’s essence, headshots and branding images are different in that they can create opportunities. People often underestimate the power of a great photograph, but I saw firsthand how the right image could transform someone’s confidence, help them land new opportunities, and elevate their brand.
I built my business around this philosophy, focusing on creating an experience that goes beyond just taking a picture. I guide my clients every step of the way—from expert posing direction to same-day image selection—ensuring they walk away with images that feel both authentic and professional. Over time, I’ve refined my approach, incorporating elements like a variety of backdrop options, natural and studio lighting, and coaching on how to use their images effectively for business and branding.
Now, I specialize in working with professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives who understand that their image is an essential part of their brand. I also run the 40 Over 40 Project, a portrait experience dedicated to celebrating women over 40 and redefining beauty, confidence, and visibility at this stage in life.
My goal has always been to help people show up as their best selves—whether it’s for a LinkedIn headshot, a personal branding session, or a portrait that tells their story. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful every day to do work that not only creates beautiful images but also empowers my clients in meaningful ways.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any entrepreneurial journey, mine has had its fair share of challenges. While I’ve always been passionate about photography, building a sustainable business around it meant mastering marketing, client experience, and the business side of things, which isn’t something they teach you when you’re first picking up a camera.
One of the biggest struggles early on was shifting from simply creating beautiful portraits to understanding what my clients truly needed. When I first started, I focused heavily on contemporary portraiture because that’s what moved me, but over time, I realized that many professionals needed a strategic, intentional image that represented their brand, their business, and their personality. Making that shift into headshots and personal branding photography was both exciting and challenging, as it required me to develop a more consultative approach, educating clients on why their images matter and how they can use them effectively.
Another challenge was balancing the creative and business sides of photography. It’s easy to get caught up in the artistry, but at the end of the day, I had to learn how to market my services, price my work properly, and create a client experience that stood out in a competitive industry. It took time, trial and error, and constant refinement, but those lessons helped me build a business that is not only creatively fulfilling but also financially sustainable.
Of course, like many entrepreneurs, I also faced unexpected obstacles, everything from industry shifts to the impact of the pandemic, which forced many photographers, including myself, to rethink how we do business. But those challenges also reinforced the importance of adaptability and resilience. I had to refine my processes, improve my online presence, and find new ways to connect with clients, which ultimately made my business stronger.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My business is built on the belief that a powerful image can change everything. I specialize in headshots, personal branding, and contemporary portraiture (Editorial Magazine Style Portraits), helping professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives elevate their visual presence. Whether it’s a corporate headshot, a personal branding session, or a transformational portrait experience, my goal is to create images that make an impact.
What sets me apart is my approach. I guide my clients every step of the way, from expert posing direction to customized sets, ensuring they walk away with images that feel both authentic and professional. Many people feel nervous in front of the camera, so I’ve developed a process that makes them feel at ease, resulting in photos that truly represent who they are.
Another defining aspect of my work is my dedication to personal branding photography. A headshot is just the beginning—your image should work for you, telling your story and positioning you for success. I consult with my clients on how to use their images effectively across their websites, social media, and marketing materials, ensuring they maximize their investment.
I’m also incredibly proud of my 40 Over 40 Project, a portrait experience designed to celebrate and empower women over 40. This initiative is all about redefining confidence, beauty, and visibility in women at this stage of life. It has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career, giving women a space to see themselves in a new light and own their stories.
At the heart of my brand is a commitment to quality, expertise, and a personal connection with every client. I want people to feel confident, empowered, and proud of their images. Whether you’re looking to refresh your professional headshot, build a strong personal brand, or celebrate a milestone, I provide a customized experience that goes beyond expectations.
For those who have been putting off updating their photos because they feel uncomfortable in front of the camera, I want them to know that this process is different. I create a relaxed, supportive environment where they can finally have images they love—ones that reflect their true selves.
Ultimately, my business is about helping people show up in the world with confidence.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are several ways people can work with me, collaborate, or support my work:
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
The best way to work with me is to book a headshot, personal branding, or editorial portrait session. Whether you need a professional headshot for LinkedIn, a full of personal branding images for your business, or an Editorial Magazine Style Portrait, I offer a customized and guided process that ensures you get images you love. Clients can reach out through my website or LinkedIn to start the booking process.
𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟒𝟎 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟒𝟎 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭
The 40 Over 40 Project is a portrait experience designed to celebrate and highlight the strength, beauty, and confidence of women over 40. Participants receive a professional photoshoot, an interview feature, and a chance to be part of a collective showcasing women at this stage in life.
𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞
I partner with brands, businesses, and creatives for styled shoots, editorial collaborations, brand partnerships, and content creation projects. If you need a photographer for corporate headshots, a creative director in need of high-end portraits, or a brand that values strong visual storytelling, I’d love to connect.
𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐫 & 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭
Referrals are a great way to support my business. If you know someone who needs updated headshots or branding photos, send them my way. Sharing my work on LinkedIn and engaging with my content also helps me reach professionals who need strong personal branding.
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝
For those not ready for a session yet, following me on LinkedIn is a great way to stay updated on my latest work, client features, and projects. I share insights on personal branding, photography tips, and industry trends.
I work with professionals who want to present themselves at their best.
Pricing:
- Headshots – Starting at $275
- Personal Branding Sessions – Starting at $1,999.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://janelleephotography.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/janelleephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janelleephotos
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/leonmcdonaldportraitbrandphotographer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@janelleephotography
