Behind the Lens: A Creative Play Day in the Studio with Holly
Bonus Blog: Creative Headshots with Holly
Hair & Makeup Artist
In late 2025, I realized I needed to bring in an additional hair and makeup artist, and Holly was recommended to me by a trusted photography friend. I knew Holly… sort of. We had met here-and-there at photography events, where she was either modeling or mingling with other industry folks. Her talent is top tier and matched perfectly with the level of service I want for my client experiences.
After successfully working together with several clients, Holly mentioned she’s always open for fun collaboration and to keep her in mind if I wanted to have a creative day in the studio. It had been forever since I’d done this, so I said “let’s do it”. These kinds of days can be incredibly beneficial for both people involved. For me, it offered a chance to try out new lighting purchases I had made and to problem-solve through more challenging lighting setups that time doesn’t allow for during a real client session. I also wanted to create a photo we could use here on my website for her bio.
With a date set, Holly grabbed a bunch of clothes, I had a loose idea of the setups I wanted to try, and she arrived at the studio ready for anything.
Behind The Lens: Crafting the Photoshoot
Truth be told, I am not naturally “creative.” I have trouble creating concepts quickly in my mind’s eye; it doesn’t come naturally to me. Now, don’t get me wrong, I understand the concept of “you have to exercise the imagination”, the theory of the more you practice, the easier it becomes. But it’s the doing that I get hung up on. I was very upfront with Holly that I had no idea what we would ultimately create. She embraced the unknown eagerly and supportively, and we got started.
On this day, I finally got the chance to experiment with a set of Nanlite Pavotubes I had purchased the year before. I had first tested them at the Lens & Light Photography Summit and fell in love with them. I was drawn to the idea of using them as a way to introduce something unexpected and custom into a client session. I’m always looking for ways to better my craft, improve my skill, and give clients images that feel thoughtful and special.
I also pulled out the Westcott Optical Spot for added drama, which uses shapes and hard light. I brought out pieces of fabric to place in front of the lens for a hazy, cinematic look. I played with color, gels, and mixing studio strobes with constant lights.
It was three hours of fun, and in the end, we created images we both loved.
Taking time away from client sessions to “play” is something I don’t do enough. But when I get results like these, it’s a reminder that I need to do it more, because it’s fun, inspiring, and it motivates me to continue improving the experience and imagery I create for my clients.
Note: I am not sponsored by any of the brands mentioned, and receive no compensation for speaking about them.
Photographer: Samantha Dueck
Hair and Makeup: Holly Corsano
Wardrobe: Holly Corsano
Samantha Dueck is a Connecticut-based personal branding and headshot photographer with over 15 years of experience working with entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives. Known for her consultation-driven approach, she focuses on understanding the person behind the brand before ever picking up the camera. Samantha is a two-time speaker at the Lens & Light Photography Summit, has appeared on numerous podcasts, and mentors photographers through education and community-building.