Author, Advocate… and Tennis Court Friend: Kristin’s Headshot Session at Coastal Creative Studios

There’s nothing better than when worlds collide in the best possible way — and that’s exactly what happened when Kristin Lombardi walked into the studio for a headshot session.

Kristin and I first met on the tennis court (yes, we’ve both been known to bring a little competitive energy to doubles matches), so it was such a full-circle moment to have her in front of the camera, this time not with a racket, but as an author and expert in the field of mental health.

She recently co-authored a book called Spectrum of Independence: How to Teach Your Neurodiverse Child Daily Life Skills, and it’s such an important and practical guide for families navigating the path to independence with their young adult children. Kristin and her co-author, Dr. Christine Drew, break things down in a way that’s not overwhelming — it’s encouraging, step-by-step, and full of empathy.

For her headshots, we wanted something professional and polished, of course, but also relaxed and real — something that felt like her. The kind of photo you’d feel comfortable reaching out to. We shot at Coastal Creative Studios in Huntington, NY (my favorite studio space!) and got a mix of natural light, clean backgrounds, and plenty of options for her book promotions, website, and whatever else comes next.

Kristin’s warmth, intelligence, and calm presence made this session so fun and easy. She showed up as herself — just like she encourages her clients to do.

I love working with people who are doing good in the world, and this was no exception. Kristin, thank you for trusting me with these photos — and for being as great in front of the camera as you are on the court.

Pick up a copy of Spectrum of Independence here.

You can also find Kristin at her practice, Zeal Behavior, in Locust Valley.

A huge thank you to make-up artist Yona Nirenberg whose natural touch always seems effortless.

Know someone doing meaningful work who could use fresh, authentic headshots? Send them my way — let’s tell their story with photos that feel like them.