Meet Alyssa Kearney of Downtown Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Kearney.

Hi Alyssa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my photography career back in 2009, photographing everything from engagements and weddings to newborns and events. I loved capturing meaningful moments and providing families with memories they could hold onto for years to come.

Being a photographer in Los Angeles meant I started getting requests for actor headshots, too. At first, it wasn’t a type of photography I had considered offering — but I took a few sessions here and there, and something shifted. I realized pretty quickly how much I loved the one-on-one connection that comes with headshot photography. It was a refreshing change from the high-stress, people-managing world of weddings.

I’m also a bit of a closet stylist and a big movie and TV lover, so headshot sessions allowed me to bring in those other passions as well. It just clicked.

After 13 years of doing family and wedding photography, I transitioned fully into headshots and founded Nice Headshots.

The name came from hearing one too many stories from actors who had worked with harsh, unkind, or even inappropriate photographers. It made me realize just how vulnerable these sessions can be — and how important it is to create a space that feels safe and encouraging which we think ultimately creates better photos.

Today, Nice Headshots is based in downtown LA, and we specialize in character-driven headshots with bold colors, organic direction, and a friendly, down-to-earth approach. Our motto is “Nice People. Nice Prices. Nice Headshots.” And we really mean it.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road — and I think any small business owner would agree!

One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from weddings and family portraits to exclusively headshots. I had built up over a decade of client relationships, so stepping away didn’t just feel risky — it felt personal.

Then there are the practical struggles of running a creative business — wearing all the hats. I’m the photographer, editor, scheduler, marketer, accountant… and that can get overwhelming fast. Add to that the ups and downs of the entertainment industry — like the pandemic and the strikes — and you really have to learn how to pivot, stay grounded, and not tie your sense of worth to the downtimes.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a headshot photographer that specializes in character-driven headshots for actors and purpose-driven headshots for professionals.

What I’m known for is making people feel comfortable — especially people who have felt uncomfortable in front of the camera before. My sessions are collaborative and relaxed, but also intentional. We talk through goals and wardrobe choices in advance so that by the time someone arrives at the studio, they feel prepared and supported.

I’m most proud of the experience I provide for my clients. There are always nerves when clients come into the shoot, but by the time they leave, we’ve shared laughs, they’re walking out with confidence, and so often I’ll hear, “I was so nervous — but that was actually fun.” That means the world to me because I really believe their headshots are that much better when they’ve had a nice time.

What sets me apart is the emotional investment I make in my clients’ success. I care about where their headshots land, how they’re perceived, and whether the images are actually helping them get work. I also bring a stylist’s eye to every session — I love pulling character looks, coordinating colors, and choosing backdrops that make people stand out.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is creating a space — and a headshot experience — where people feel safe and supported. Headshots can bring up a lot: insecurities, pressure, imposter syndrome. I never want someone to walk away from a session feeling less than.

Obviously, taking a great headshot is important — I can do that! But for me, my clients feeling encouraged and respected is part of the formula.

Pricing:

• 3-Look Headshot Session: $375
• 4-Look Headshot Session: $475
• 5-Look Headshot Session: $575
• +$100 for any additional look

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.niceheadshots.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nice.headshots
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7dYaSczV5lEsUZksgRLLGw