Yoga & Pilates Studio -
Jess Purtell
THE BRAND
Jess Purtell Yoga is a yoga and Pilates studio based in Alexandria, VA, known for its warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment. The studio offers a variety of classes and teaching styles, allowing students to explore different approaches and find the practice that best supports their individual needs.
THE BRief - Half day shoot
Because the images would be used across multiple platforms, we carefully planned a variety of compositions, orientations, and subject matter. The goal was to create a versatile image library that could support website design, social media content, promotional materials, and the launch of Jess's teacher training program.
The shoot included imagery of classes in progress, instructor interactions, merchandise, lifestyle content, professional headshots, and photographs that positioned Jess as both a practitioner and a teacher.
Jess needed a fresh library of photographs for her website, social media, and marketing materials that would showcase everything that makes her studio unique. The imagery needed to communicate not only the quality of instruction, but also the sense of community, expertise, and connection that students experience when they walk through the doors.
We planned a half-day brand photography shoot built around four distinct concepts, each designed to support a different aspect of her business and future marketing needs.
the planning
Brand photography session in washington, dc area - case study
the shoot
One of our primary goals was to establish Jess's credibility as an experienced teacher. To accomplish this, we photographed her leading a group yoga class, teaching a yoga teacher training session, and working one-on-one with students. These images highlight her expertise while giving prospective students insight into her teaching style and approach.
We also created a collection of photographs that showcased Jess as a practitioner. Working from a curated list of yoga poses and Pilates exercises, we captured imagery that demonstrated both strength and technique, creating content suitable for use across multiple marketing platforms.
Because community is such an important part of the studio's identity, we dedicated part of the session to documenting the instructors, students, and connections that make the space feel welcoming and supportive. These photographs help communicate the experience of the studio and allow prospective students to envision themselves as part of the community.
To support the studio's website and marketing materials, we also created a cohesive set of headshots for each instructor. In addition to traditional head-and-shoulder portraits, we photographed each teacher in a pose that reflected their personality and teaching style, creating imagery that felt both professional and authentic.
The shoot concluded with team photographs ranging from polished group portraits to more playful imagery that reflected the studio's culture and energy.
the result
The final gallery provided Jess with a diverse library of images that supports her website, social media presence, teacher training program, and ongoing marketing efforts.
By combining instructor headshots, class photography, lifestyle imagery, and branded content, the studio now has a cohesive visual presence that reflects both the expertise of its instructors and the welcoming community they have built.
“The results are incredible. My team, my studio, and my own photos are beautiful. I can't thank her enough.”
— jess purtell
THE full review
"Lisa spent the time to really get to know what my brand was about. She is so organized and detail-oriented, it helped me hone in on what I really wanted and needed.
On the day of the shoot, Lisa was prepared and tireless. She made it easy to "smile for the camera". The results are incredible. My team, my studio, and my own photos are beautiful. I can't thank her enough."
THE credits
- Jess Purtell
Founder, Jess Purtell Yoga
Set Design + Props: Lisa Scontras
Location: Jess Purtell Yoga Studio, Alexandria VA