The Hidden Benefits of Booking a Stand-Alone Athlete Portrait Session

Written By Kim Bear

Most people think sports photos are simply “team picture day.” But if you’ve ever watched the pace of those events, you already know how little time we really have. A few minutes. A couple poses. Quick adjustments. It’s enough to get something solid, but it’s not enough to create a gallery that feels personal.

That’s where stand-alone athlete sessions come in. These sessions give us the space to go beyond basic portraits and build something that tells a story.

When we have dedicated time, we can create lighting that actually highlights muscle definition, uniforms, textures, and movement. Parents love the bold, dramatic look of my studio lighting, but that type of setup isn’t realistic on team days. Individual sessions give me the freedom to light, pose, and style fully without the line of ten kids waiting behind us.

Another huge benefit is confidence. Kids need a minute to warm up. Once they realize they’re not being rushed and it’s just us creating together, they relax. Their personality shows up. They start asking “Can we try this?” or “Can we do something cool like you did for that other athlete?” That comfort is what makes the final images feel powerful. They’re not just looking at the camera. They’re owning the moment.

These sessions also create opportunities for custom edits that are impossible during team schedules. Things like stylized graphics, dramatic close ups, full body shots, action-inspired poses, or images that match specific banner sizes. Schools and booster clubs love these because they stand out on program covers, senior nights, and social media.

If you want photos that look like they belong in a sports magazine or a Nike ad, this is how we get them. More time. More creativity. More intention. And a gallery full of images that actually feel like your athlete.

If your athlete deserves something standout this season, you can book an individual session at Still and Wild and we’ll create a full set of images that feel powerful, confident, and completely unique to them.

Kim Bear

About Kim | Photographer at Still and Wild

If you live in or around Topeka, you’ve probably noticed how hard it is to find headshots that actually feel real. Most people end up with photos that look stiff, overly edited, or just not like them. That’s exactly why I started Still and Wild: to create portraits that feel like you on your best day.

I’m Kim Bear, a Topeka-based photographer who believes your headshot should work as hard as you do. I specialize in professional and creative headshots that help entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals across Topeka, Holton, and Northeast Kansas show up with confidence. My approach is relaxed, guided, and designed to help you look natural and self-assured in every photo.

When you book a session with me, it isn’t about forcing perfection. It’s about finding that spark, the mix of calm, confidence, and personality that makes people stop scrolling and say, “That’s who I want to work with.”

Why people choose Still and Wild

Most of my clients tell me the same thing: “I hate having my picture taken.” But by the end of their session, they’re relaxed, laughing, and usually saying, “That was actually fun.” I guide you every step of the way, from what to wear to how to pose, so your photos feel effortless, natural, and flattering.

I photograph headshots, personal branding portraits, and lifestyle images throughout Topeka, Holton, and nearby Kansas communities, blending modern studio lighting with lifestyle-inspired direction. The result is a polished but personal look that helps you stand out both online and in person.

What makes Still and Wild different

The experience at Still and Wild is personal from the very beginning. You’ll never be rushed through your session or posed like everyone else. Every session is customized to highlight who you are and what makes your story unique. My goal is to help you walk away with photos that feel like you, confident, approachable, and authentic.

After years behind the camera, I’ve learned how to use light, movement, and genuine connection to bring out your most natural expressions. Many people think they’re not photogenic, but what they really need is someone who understands how to guide them comfortably through the process. I know how to capture that perfect balance between professional and real so your headshots feel natural while still looking elevated.

And then there are the results. My clients use their photos to grow their businesses, attract better opportunities, and build stronger brands. I’ve worked with professionals across Topeka and the surrounding area who tell me their new photos changed how people respond to them online and how they feel about themselves. Whether you need a LinkedIn headshot, brand photography for your business, or a creative concept for your next project, I’ll help you create images that make people stop and pay attention.

Ready to look like the professional you already are?

Let’s create something that feels completely you.

Book your headshot session today and walk away with portraits that help you stand out online and in real life.

https://www.stillandwild.com
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