There's No Wrong Way to Look Like You

Written By Kim Bear

I test. A lot. And the reason I do is so that you can see options.

I put myself in front of my own camera. Lots of different looks, different moods, different energy … so that when you walk in, you're not staring at a blank wall trying to imagine what your photos could look like. You can actually see the range. Warm and intimate. Dark and bold. Clean and bright. Soft. Serious. A little unexpected.

One little posing secret… I love the lean! Leaning feels really natural. Also the lean with the arm slightly around the tummy… is a great trick to hide a stubborn area!

Look at the images in this post. Same person, same studio, completely different photographs. That's the whole point.

Here's what I want you to take from that: there is no single right way to do this. A traditional headshot , clean background, good light, professional and polished — is a great choice if that's what you need and what feels like you. But if it doesn't feel like you? That's okay too. You don't have to choose the safe version just because it's what everyone else does.

Maybe you want something darker and more editorial. Maybe you want warmth and approachability front and center. Maybe you want something in between — a little structured, a little loose. Maybe you want black and white. Maybe you want color so saturated it stops people mid-scroll.

All of it is available. All of it is valid.

What I find is that most people don't know exactly what they want until they see it. They come in with a vague idea, "professional but not stiff," "interesting but not weird" and then something clicks when they look at images side by side. They point to one and say that one, and suddenly they know. They probably knew all along. They just needed something to react to.

I love that each of these images could live on your website, LinkedIn profile picture, or marketing pieces. I also personally love that non of these are necessarily expected.

That's why I keep testing. Not to show off range, but to give you something to respond to. To make the choosing easier. To take "I don't know" and turn it into "actually, yes … that." I know that often I have to see something I love or don’t love to even know it is an option.

So if you're on the fence about what kind of portraits you want, come look at some options first. You might surprise yourself. You might realize you've been playing it safe when you didn't have to. Or you might look at a clean, traditional headshot and think yes, that's exactly it. Simple. Confident. Done.

Either way, you get to decide. And that's the whole point. Maybe it is even a little mix and match. After all… you have a lot of sides to you and your website is a big place to fill up… no one says all of your pictures have to look the same.

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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