The Rose Colored Couch - Dr. Najwa Mohamed
THE BRAND
Dr. Najwa Mohamed is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Alexandria, VA who works with women to discover the beliefs that underpin their self-doubt, anxiety, and overwhelm. Her approach combines traditional therapy with practical mindset work.
In addition to her one-on-one work with clients through her practice, The Rose Colored Couch, she wants to ensure that all women have resources to do this inner work. That’s why she’s launching a self-paced online course.
THE BRief - full day shoot
Because Najwa knows that her potential clients need to trust her, she decided to invest in personal brand photography that would reflect who she is and how she practices.
Given that the pictures would be used on the new website for The Rose Colored Couch as well for a new online course, I planned ample photos with negative space for text layering. At the same time, I also made sure to give her close-ups and vertical shots to use on social media.
brand photography sessions in northern va - case study
the planning
We developed three visual concepts to communicate Najwa's natural warmth, authenticity, and professionalism, while incorporating her brand colors.
Once the concepts were finalized, I designed and styled an office environment at the studio that reflects Najwa's practice and brand aesthetic. I sourced a range of props, and Najwa provided her own on-brand rose-colored, velvet chair.
I recommended that Najwa work with a brand color specialist to create custom hand-painted backdrops and styling mats to bring the brand colors into the headshots and flatlays. The final touch was a custom floral arrangement created to match her branding.
Wardrobe plays an important role in bringing the concepts to life. I had Najwa work with a stylist to create 5 looks, each aligned with the concepts we had created, and consisted of: The Uniform, The Connection, and The Inspiration. The stylist provided a detailed guide that explained when to wear each outfit and how to style individual pieces, down to how to cuff her blazer.
the shoot
During a full-day brand photography session, we created a library or images designed to support Najwa's website, social media presence, and marketing efforts. We photographed her in conversation with clients, working on her laptop, and creating video content, ensuring her audience cold see both her expertise and her approach to client care.
Because Najwa frequently works with Muslim clients, representation was an important consideration throughout the planning process. We incorporated imagery that reflected the people she serves while also creating a collection of professional headshots for a variety of business needs.
Part of the session was dedicated to more personal behind-the-scenes imagery. We photographed Najwa reading, incorporated framed photos of her dogs, and included subtle references to her love of horses through carefully selected props. These details helped create imagery that felt authentic to her personality and brand.
We also created a collection of styled flatlays featuring meaningful objects from Najwa's professional and personal life, including items related to her certification work, notebooks, and other carefully chosen props. These images provide flexible visual assets for social media graphics, website content, and marketing materials while helping maintain a cohesive brand identity.
the result
The final gallery provided Najwa with a versatile collection of images for use across her website, social media, online courses, and marketing materials.
From professional headshots to lifestyle imagery and branded content, every photograph was created to help communicate her expertise, reflect her authentic approach to client care, and build trust with prospective clients.
“Every part of the experience was truly exceptional. Working with Lisa felt like a gift, and I’m honestly sad it’s over!”
— Dr. Najwa mohamed
THE full review
"From her thoughtful preparation and attention to detail before the shoot, to her warmth, calm energy, and professionalism on the day of, to the absolute perfection of her final work—every step surpassed my (very high) expectations. And I say that as a proud perfectionist!
Lisa made sure we captured every shot I could possibly need—not just for my current website and branding, but also for future projects I haven’t even launched yet. She approached the entire shoot with a wide lens, considering everything from outfit pairings to props, to custom backdrops and styling mats for social media. Her creative vision and practical expertise helped bring my brand to life in ways I couldn’t have done on my own.
She also connected me with other trusted professionals, making the whole process feel seamless and collaborative. I can’t recommend her highly enough—both as a talented photographer and as a truly kind, grounding presence. Working with Lisa felt like a gift, and I’m honestly sad it’s over!"
THE credits
- Dr. Najwa Mohamed
Founder, The Rose Colored Couch in Alexandria va
The Rose Colored Couch Website
Set Design + Props: Lisa Scontras
Outfit Styling: Katherine Bignon
Backdrop + Styling Mats : Lindale Studios
Florals: The Enchanted Florist, Old Town Alexandria, VA
Location: Studio Oronoco, Old Town Alexandria, VA