This was Monica’s second brand photography session for Eyes on the Horizon, her mental health and speaking practice dedicated to supporting rural, agricultural communities across Minnesota.
Monica’s work sits at the intersection of compassion, credibility, and real-world understanding. She shows up in spaces where trust isn’t optional; it’s everything. And that matters deeply to how her brand shows up visually.
Meet Monica McConkey of Eyes on the Horizon
Eyes on the Horizon is led by Monica McConkey, a counselor and consultant specializing in agricultural and rural mental health. Her work spans direct counseling services for agricultural producers and their families, as well as speaking, training, and consulting engagements focused on mental health in agriculture.
At the heart of everything she does is a relationship.
Whether she’s sitting at a farmer’s kitchen table, meeting in a barn office, or speaking to a room full of producers, her goal is the same: help people feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to better manage stress, relationships, and overall mental wellness.
There’s a grounded steadiness to her presence. The kind that makes people feel safe enough to open up. And that’s exactly what her brand needed to communicate at first glance.
Why It Was Time for Updated Brand Photos
When Monica reached out, the timing was clear. She was preparing for a website refresh. She’d recently changed her hairstyle. But more than that, she kept hearing the same thing:
“You don’t look like your picture when I meet you in person.”
In a profession built on trust, comfort, and connection, that disconnect matters. For Monica, her brand photos needed to feel like her: steady, calm, empathetic, professional, and genuine, so potential clients could begin building trust before their first interaction.
Brand photos are about more than making your website and online presence look polished; they are about connecting with your ideal clients.
Planning a Branding Session for a Multi‑Faceted Business
Monica’s business isn’t one‑dimensional, so her brand photography couldn’t be either.
During the planning phase, we focused on outfits, color palettes, and locations that could support her roles as counselor, speaker, consultant, and trusted voice in rural mental health, all without losing cohesion.
Variety was important. So was clarity.
Monica shared that the planning process itself was one of her favorite parts of the experience. From collaborative conversations to outfit and background refinements, the process helped clarify how her brand shows up visually.
Capturing Energy, Comfort, and Professionalism
When it came time for the session, comfort was key.
Monica wanted images that felt approachable and real, photos that would help future clients feel just a little more at ease when reaching out. Throughout the session, laughter and conversation created a relaxed environment that allowed her true personality to come through. This is something that comes even easier with subsequent sessions. I’ve known Monica for a long time, but even if I hadn’t, repeat sessions are a fun time to ‘catch up’ on what’s happening in life while we take impactful pictures.
Her favorite part of the final images? The colors, the backgrounds, and the energy captured in each frame. The photos feel warm and grounded, while still clearly communicating professionalism and credibility.
How Brand Photography Supports Her Work
For Monica, these photos do more than look good on a website.
As a counselor, visibility matters. Seeing her face on her website and materials helps potential clients feel a sense of familiarity and comfort.
For organizations, businesses, and conference planners, her brand photos communicate who she is before they ever reach out—offering a sense of her professionalism, warmth, and genuineness.
In her words, the photos make it just a little easier for people to say yes to reaching out.
Did We Accomplish the Vision?
Absolutely.
Monica described the experience as creative, comfortable, and genuinely fun. She highlighted the importance of feeling at ease during the session, noting that the relaxed atmosphere allowed her to be herself, resulting in images that truly reflect who she is and how she works.
Looking good matters.
Feeling like yourself matters more.
Over the years, my approach has evolved from focusing purely on flattering posing to blending that skill with attention to natural body language, creating images that feel both polished and true.
That balance is where the magic lives.
Monica’s Words
For anyone feeling skeptical about investing in branding photography, Amber is exactly the kind of photographer who will change your mind.
“Working with Amber was an exceptional experience from start to finish. She brings the perfect blend of professionalism, creativity, and genuine warmth to her work. Her attention to detail is unmatched—she notices the little things that elevate a good photo into a powerful brand image.
Beyond her technical talent, Amber is incredibly personable. She makes the entire process feel easy, natural, and even fun, which is invaluable when you’re trying to capture authentic photos that truly represent who you are.
For anyone feeling skeptical about investing in branding photography, Amber is exactly the kind of photographer who will change your mind. She doesn’t just take pictures—she helps you see your brand more clearly. She guides you through the process, listens to your goals, and ensures the final images don’t just look good, but work for your business.
If you’re hesitant, don’t be. Choose Amber. She delivers exceptional results and an experience that leaves you feeling confident, supported, and excited about your brand.”
Learn More About Eyes on the Horizon
To learn more about Monica’s work supporting rural and agricultural communities through counseling, speaking, and consulting, visit eyesonthehorizon.org or find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/eyesonthehorizonconsulting.
And if you’re curious about brand photography that’s designed to support your work (not just decorate it), you can explore my branding sessions on the branding page.
