Headshots That Feel Like You
On Your Best Day
Your headshot is often the first place people meet you online. Before the call, the meeting, or the introduction,
your image is already helping people decide if you feel approachable, credible, and current.
I create guided headshots with real-time image review, natural posing direction, expression coaching, and thoughtful attention to the small details that make a photo feel strong, current, and genuinely like you.
Three Ways To Work Together
Headshots > Branding > Dogs >
Why My Headshot Experience Is Different
"That collaborative process is what sets her apart."
Look, most of us have something we are already worried about before the camera even comes out.
A blemish. Under-eye bags. Wrinkles. Extra weight. A short neck. A tooth. Whatever it is, we deal with it.
I ask what you are self-conscious about, then we look at an image together and talk through
what feels distracting to you. From there, I can create a quick before-and-after so you can see how
natural retouching softens or removes the distraction without making you look like an AI version of yourself.
Even better, you decide how much or how little retouching you want, so the final image still feels like you - just less tired, less distracted by the tiny thing you were worried about, and ready to use the photo everywhere.
Kind Words From Clients
"I went into this experience not really knowing what to expect, and I came out so pleasantly surprised.
Like most people, getting a professional headshot was something I kept putting off.
But working with Rachel was unlike anything I'd experienced before!
You don't usually get to sit with your photographer, analyze the photos together, and walk through
the retouching so that you, as the client, walk away with your most absolute best images.
That collaborative process is what sets her apart.
The studio itself was one of my favorite parts, so much variety in one space
that my session had a range I honestly didn't expect. I got headshots, lifestyle shots,
and branding images all without leaving the room.
I'll be honest, it took me a little while to warm up to the camera.
But Rachel coached me through the entire session so naturally that I didn't even realize
I was getting more comfortable until I already was. The vibe was set from the moment I walked in,
and I never once felt rushed or awkward.
Being able to come back and walk through the photos after the shoot, once everything had settled, was so valuable.
It was the first time I actually enjoyed looking at close-up portraits of myself.
The value was unmatched. And when I saw my favorite photo, I could not wait to update my LinkedIn,
my website, everything - I wanted it everywhere! It made such a difference to my confidence.
If you've been going back and forth about whether it's worth it, it 10000% is!! Stop overthinking it.
You're going to walk out wondering why you waited so long because I sure did!"
Alina Nadoyan
I had such a wonderful experience getting my new headshots taken with Rachel Alves.
From the moment I arrived, she made me feel completely relaxed and comfortable
which is no small feat when you’re posing in front of a camera. Her calm, friendly approach
helped me loosen up, and it really shows in the final photos.
What impressed me even more was the time Rachel took to edit the images right there in her studio.
Being able to review everything together and walk out with two fully polished,
professional headshots felt like such a thoughtful, efficient, and collaborative process.
I’m so happy with the results and would absolutely recommend Rachel Alves
to anyone looking for a photographer who combines talent with a truly welcoming experience.
"I Rachel is very professional, kind, and makes you feel
like a million bucks! I love the way she shot my headshot.
UPDATE:
I went back to Rachel 3 years later to update my headshot and it turned out absolutely stunning.
She helps you coordinate poses and then you edit the photos together in-studio.
I will definitely keep coming back, she is the only one I trust with my headshots!
Marina M
Seattle Headshots in Studio or On Location
Studio sessions take place in my Pioneer Square studio and serve clients throughout Seattle and the Eastside.
On-location sessions are available around South Lake Union, Queen Anne, and Seattle Center Area
for clients who want a quick, guided, polished headshot update.
Hi, I’m Rachel,
A Seattle-based photographer with over
27 years of experience photographing people.
I love creating photographs that help people see
themselves in a new way - natural, confident,
and better than they expected, without feeling overdone.
I know being photographed can
feel uncomfortable, so I keep the process
light, guided, and low-pressure.
My hope is that you leave not only
with photographs you love, but with the
feeling that it was easier and more
enjoyable than you expected.
Ready for a headshot that feels like you?