“Be open to trying things and failing. Be bold. Take risks. Look outside of what you think you know and take changes as they come. There are so many more jobs, opportunities, companies and roles than you realize. There were times I’d get so safe in a role, job, or experience that I didn’t challenge myself. I would get too comfortable and find I wasn’t really growing.”
I asked fellow Chief Meg Haley to share a piece of advice during our photo shoot last December.
“I joined Chief during a time of reflection and reevaluation in my early 40s. I realized while I always had a very strong internal network at my job, I wanted to build a better external network – and brand. Last year, I decided to start engaging more externally – joining boards, panels, Chief, generally becoming more active in communities with other women.”
“It became very fruitful because, at the end of 2022, I decided to leave my job. In imagining what comes next, these headshots came at the perfect time. They gave me a fresh start and fresh look to support unlocking what comes next.”
“I feel like my headshots capture this new start perfectly. They show my positive energy and determination as I move forward. I’m engaging with my community and finding my center again which has been really nice.”
Thanks, Meg, for sharing your journey with us!
About Alissa
Alissa Randall is a portrait photographer based in New Jersey and New York City, known for creating images that feel both elevated and deeply personal. While professional headshots remain a cornerstone of her work, her photography has grown to include personal branding, women’s empowerment, family connection sessions, and expressive portraits of dogs and the people who love them.
Her approach blends editorial artistry with empathy and guidance, helping people feel comfortable enough to be fully seen in front of the camera. Whether photographing an executive, an entrepreneur, a family, or a beloved dog, Alissa creates photographs that reflect more than appearance. They reflect presence, personality, connection, and story.
Alissa photographs in NJ, NYC, and on location beyond the tri-state area. Explore more of her work on the homepage and discover stories behind the images on the blog.