What I’ve Learned About Success (It’s Not What I Thought It Was)
Reflections from a Naperville Branding & Headshot Photographer
For years, I believed success meant having everything perfectly polished — the right title, a full calendar, a carefully curated image. It meant being seen, booked out, and admired from afar.
But the more I’ve grown — both as a person and as a branding photographer in Naperville, IL — the more I’ve come to understand that success isn’t about looking a certain way from the outside. It’s about feeling aligned, whole, and at peace with how you’re showing up in the world.
Here’s what success looks like to me now:
1. Success is Being Seen for Who You Really Are
It’s not about impressing others — it’s about standing confidently in your truth. In my work photographing entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals across the Chicago suburbs, I’ve learned that the most powerful branding images aren’t about perfect lighting or styling (though we love both!) — they’re about authenticity.
The clients who shine the brightest are the ones who allow their personality, values, and real energy to come through. They’re not pretending — they’re present.
2. Success is Working With Purpose, Not Perfection
There’s freedom in letting go of the idea that everything has to be flawless to be valuable. I’ve seen so many business owners, especially women, wait until everything is “ready” before investing in their brand or booking a headshot session.
Here’s what I tell them: You are already ready. Success isn’t about reaching a finish line — it’s about showing up boldly, even when things feel a little messy.
3. Success is Creating Space for Others to Rise
One of the unexpected gifts of my journey has been creating space for others to step into their own confidence — whether it’s a young creative launching a business, a corporate leader updating their headshot, or a woman finally allowing herself to be seen without apology.
Success, to me, is no longer about climbing higher — it’s about helping others rise alongside you.
4. Success is Peace of Mind, Not Constant Hustle
The fast-paced world of entrepreneurship can convince you that “busy” means “successful.” But I’ve learned to measure success in slower moments: a client’s email saying they felt seen, a session that felt effortless, or a quiet walk through my garden after a day of creating.
As a branding and headshot photographer in Naperville, my business feels most successful when it’s rooted in calm, clarity, and connection.
Final Thoughts
Success isn’t one-size-fits-all — and it’s not always loud. Sometimes it looks like presence. Confidence. Purpose. Or finally booking that session you’ve put off because you’re waiting to “be ready.”
If you’re building something meaningful and want branding or headshot images that reflect who you truly are — I’d love to work with you.
Serving Naperville, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Barrington and the greater Chicago area.
Studio and on-location sessions available for professionals, Models, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
With love and light,
Alicia Staley Johnson
Alicia’s Photography
St. Charles | Geneva | Plainfield | Photographer