As a Pinehurst photographer who specializes in headshots and branding portraits, I’m always excited to work with new clients, especially when it involves an opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team for their headshots and branding portraits. That’s exactly what happened when Buck from NPSG (National Public Safety Group) reached out to me a few weeks ago. He was looking for a photographer to capture updated professional headshots for their employees at their yearly conference, which was held at the stunning Pinehurst No. 9 Country Club in the heart of Moore County, NC.
I’ve always loved working with businesses and organizations on branding photography, and when I heard that NPSG wanted to update their team portraits, I was thrilled to be part of the process. A big part of a company's brand identity is how its people are represented visually, and professional headshots play a huge role in that.
Pre-Session Planning and Coordination
Before the shoot, Buck and his assistant set up a Zoom call to ensure we were all on the same page. We discussed the vision for the session, making sure their employees would have photos that matched the professionalism and caliber of their work in the public safety sector. The team needed headshots that conveyed trust, expertise, and approachability – all important qualities for the kind of work they do.
We also reviewed the location and logistics, and I helped with the setup of the shoot. It's always essential to ensure we're working in a space that fits the vibe and energy the client is looking for. NPSG’s employees, speakers, and conference attendees were all eager to have their portraits taken, and I could already tell it was going to be a great experience.
The Headshot Session
The big day arrived, and the session went seamlessly. Pinehurst No. 9 offered a gorgeous backdrop, and the atmosphere was vibrant with conference-goers networking and attending various workshops. We had originally planned for an outdoor group shot, but the weather had other ideas. Instead of letting the snow dampen the mood, I scouted the clubhouse and decided to take the the group portrait indoors.
The lobby at Pinehurst No. 9 turned out to be the perfect setting. With its open space and tasteful decor, it gave the group shot a clean, professional look that complemented the individuals' headshots.
For the individual hadshots, I set up in the Smith Room against a dark gray/off-black background for the portraits, which helped create contrast, bringing out the best in each person while maintaining a polished, corporate feel.
It took about 1 hour and 15 minutes to photograph everyone, including speakers, staff, and members of the NPSG team. Throughout the session, the mood was relaxed yet focused, and it was clear that these individuals take pride in their work and the organization they represent. I truly enjoyed capturing their personalities in each shot, while making sure they felt comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
The Final Results Despite the weather not being in our favor for the outdoor shot, the indoor setting actually added a unique touch to the overall collection of images. Each individual’s portrait conveyed professionalism, but also the warmth and approachability that are key to the NPSG brand.
Working with Buck and the rest of the NPSG team was an absolute pleasure, and I’m so proud of the final images we created together. I’m also excited that these headshots will help their team present a consistent, polished image to clients, partners, and the public.
If you’re in the Moore County area, or nearby towns like Southern Pines, Pinehurst, or Carthage, and looking for professional headshots or branding photos for your business, I would love to help. Whether it’s for your team, individual portraits, or a corporate event, I strive to create images that reflect the true essence of each person and business.
For more information or to book a session, feel free to reach out to me here at Makana Photography!



















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