“If I could give my younger self some advice, it would be don’t worry so much. You can worry and worry and then, suddenly, something happens that you never saw coming. The worrying didn’t help you one bit.”
Author, coach, and fundraising consultant Robin Merle, shared that advice during our photoshoot.
“The sudden event for me was an ‘involuntary exit’ from a role I loved. I’m a writer at heart so I dug into writing a book (called Involuntary Exit) to help other women turn this experience into an opportunity for real growth.
At the same time, I expanded my fundraising consulting. Whether it’s through coaching, writing, or fundraising, I’m driven to help people and organizations recognize opportunities and seize them to succeed. It’s why I do what I do.
As I began meeting new clients, using more digital platforms, and going on promotional book tours, I realized how old my headshot was. I wanted one to represent who I am now. I saw Alissa’s work through Chief after searching for photographers, and her work absolutely blew me away.
The experience was so different from a ‘traditional’ session. She was so engaged. She took the time to make sure I was comfortable and got photos unlike any I had seen before. My friends said, ‘This is you.’”
Thanks, Robin, for sharing your experience.
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.