Today we’d like to introduce you to Pierre R. Michel.
Hi Pierre R., it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Actually, my journey began 18 years ago when my second son was born. I wanted to take better pictures of him and document his milestones, so I bought my first DSLR, a Canon 50D. It didn’t take long to realize how little I knew about photography, so I started devouring every free tutorial I could find online.
By 2011, when my third son was born and I was between jobs, what started as a hobby turned into an opportunity. I began taking on small projects and photographing just about everything to build experience and stay creative during that season.
As I grew, I started to recognize how much I enjoyed working with professional, helping them feel confident and seen through authentic, polished portraits. In 2019, that realization led to a major shift. I transitioned from Pierre Ricardo Michel Photography to Headshot Solution & Beyond, LLC (HSB ATL), focusing on corporate and branding photography. It was more than a name change. It was a clear step toward helping businesses and individuals tell their stories through strong, professional imagery.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many small business owners, I’ve faced my share of ups and downs, especially during the recession, the pandemic, and the recent shifts in the economy. Photography can be unpredictable, so learning how to stay consistent through slow seasons took time and patience.
One of the biggest turning points for me was realizing that talent alone wasn’t enough. I had to shift from thinking like a creative to thinking like a business owner. Understanding what it takes to run a profitable, sustainable photography business. That meant learning about marketing, pricing, client experience, and long-term growth, not just focusing on the art itself.
The pandemic also pushed me to adapt and rethink how I serve clients, and now with AI changing the creative landscape, I’ve doubled down on what makes my work human: connection, trust, and authenticity. Every challenge has shaped me into a more intentional entrepreneur and a stronger storyteller behind the camera.
As you know, we’re big fans of Headshot Solutions & Beyond, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Headshot Solution & Beyond (HSB ATL), we specialize in corporate and brand photography that helps professionals and companies show up with confidence. Our focus is on creating polished, approachable imagery that feels authentic, not stiff or overly produced. Whether it’s executive headshots, team photos, or event coverage, we make sure every image reflects the personality and professionalism of the people behind the brand.
What sets HSB ATL apart is the experience we create before, during, and after the shoot. Most people don’t love being in front of a camera, so my goal is to make the process easy and comfortable while capturing images that look natural and confident. I take time to understand each client’s story, their brand goals, and how the images will actually be used, so what we deliver is intentional and effective.
I’m proud that over the years, HSB ATL has become known for reliability, professionalism, and genuine connection. It’s not just about great photos, it’s about helping people present their best selves and giving businesses visuals that truly represent who they are.
For readers getting to know the brand, HSB ATL offers corporate headshots, branding sessions, and event photography throughout the Metro Atlanta area. We’re continually growing, refining our client experience, and expanding our creative team to serve companies that value strong visual storytelling.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The photography industry is changing fast. Over the next five to ten years, I see even more integration between photography, video, and digital content creation. Businesses want cohesive visual stories, not just single images, so photographers who understand branding, storytelling, and marketing will continue to stand out.
AI and automation are already reshaping how images are edited and delivered, but I don’t see that as a threat—I see it as a tool. What can’t be replaced is the human connection, the ability to make someone feel comfortable, and the skill to capture genuine expression. That’s where the real value will stay.
I also think clients are becoming more intentional about how they present themselves online. Strong, authentic visual branding will be more important than ever, especially for professionals and companies building trust in a digital world. My goal is to keep adapting, learning, and staying ahead of those changes while continuing to create images that truly connect.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hsbatl.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hsb_atl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086291337651
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/headshot-solutions-beyond/?viewAsMember=true
