Model Headshots in Los Angeles: Lacota Shapley at the Downtown LA Studio

Model Headshots in Los Angeles: Lacota Shapley at the Downtown LA Studio (Rory Lewis Photographer 2025)

Lacota Shapley came into my Downtown Los Angeles studio for a model headshot session built around clarity, confidence, and longevity—portraits that feel contemporary and editorial, while remaining timeless enough to carry a portfolio forward for years.

With over twenty years behind the camera, my approach is the same whether I’m photographing royalty, Hollywood icons, world leaders, or emerging talent. The focus is always on cinematic lighting, thoughtful composition, and calm, precise direction. Strong headshots aren’t about posing or performance—they’re about presence.

For Lacota, we shaped the session around a small number of distinct looks, each designed to serve a different professional purpose while staying true to her identity.

Model Headshots in Los Angeles: Lacota Shapley at the Downtown LA Studio (Rory Lewis Photographer 2025)

The first look leans into modern editorial simplicity. Clean lighting and restrained styling allow the face to lead, making these images ideal for agency boards, digitals, and fashion submissions where clarity and confidence are essential.

The second introduces a bolder, more graphic statement. Strong colour and deeper contrast create immediate impact—portraits that read instantly on comp cards, thumbnails, and online portfolios without overpowering the subject.

Model Headshots in Los Angeles: Lacota Shapley at the Downtown LA Studio (Rory Lewis Photographer 2025)

The final set moves into something warmer and more textural. With a subtle fine-art sensibility, these portraits add depth and mood, offering range without slipping into theatricality.

A successful model headshot has to do two things at once: clearly present the face—structure, skin, expression, and eyes—while quietly suggesting versatility. Achieving that balance comes from lighting design, micro-adjustments, and relaxed, intuitive coaching, ensuring the final images feel effortless rather than manufactured.

My Los Angeles studio provides a calm, focused environment designed for this kind of work. I also photograph clients seasonally in New York and London, allowing models and creatives to maintain visual continuity across markets. If you're ready to book your session, check out my Los Angeles Actor Headshots gallery.