There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a client invites you into their home — the place where their personal life and professional practice naturally intertwine.

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Naomi Christina, a therapeutic coach, psychologist, and psychedelic-assisted therapist based near Amsterdam, for a professional branding photoshoot. Naomi’s work supports deep personal transformation through psilocybin-assisted personal development programs and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, always grounded in ethics, safety, and evidence-based care.


With the recent launch of her book Het potentieel van psychedelica, Naomi reached out to create the visual foundation for her new online presence - imagery that could support her website, Instagram and LinkedIn presence, speaking engagements, and future publications.


Reframing Psychedelic Therapy Through Branding Photography

Working in the field of psychedelics in the Netherlands comes with unique challenges. Despite its legal framework and growing body of research, the industry is still often surrounded by stereotypes and misconceptions.

Naomi stands in clear contrast to those clichés. With over 30 years of experience as a psychologist, a background as a former managing director at KPMG, and extensive training through MAPS, her work is rooted in structure, clinical rigor, and integrity.

The intention behind this branding photoshoot was clear: to move away from “loud” visuals and spiritual tropes, and instead create calm, grounded, professional imagery that reflects the seriousness - and humanity - of her work.


Capturing Her Loving Presence Through Photography

During our consultation, Naomi shared a sentence that became the emotional anchor of the shoot:

“At the center of it all is loving presence. That’s not a strategy - it’s simply who I am.”


To translate that into images, we focused on three core elements:

  • The environment: We photographed in Naomi’s home practice near Amsterdam, using soft natural light, warm textures, and quiet spaces that reflect safety and privacy.
  • The details: Carefully chosen props - oils, sage, books, and everyday tools from her practice - subtly tell the story of her work without sensationalism.
  • The connection: We captured gentle, staged moments of her in session with a client (photographed from behind), highlighting her non-directive, compassionate approach and the way she holds space for others.


Why Preparation Matters in Personal Branding Photography

Because Naomi was stepping into visibility in a new way, preparation was key.

Before the shoot, I created a personalized concept board, including:

  • A soft, neutral color palette inspired by nature
  • Outfit inspiration aligned with her values and professional positioning
  • Visual cues for calm, trust, and professionalism

We also worked with Barbara Coolen, a professional hair and makeup artist, to ensure Naomi felt confident, polished, and fully herself - never overdone.

When clients feel prepared and supported, the camera fades into the background. The result is imagery that feels natural, grounded, and true.


A Visual Foundation for a New Chapter

This branding session marks the beginning of a new phase in Naomi’s work - one where her online presence finally reflects the depth, care, and integrity of her practice.

These images are more than professional portraits. They are an invitation - to feel safe, seen, and supported before a single word is spoken.


Naomi, thank you for trusting me with your story.