JWC Media
a luxury lifestyle website that delivers a colorful and passionate telling of neighboring events, fashion, beauty, finance, and the pursuit of leisure.
By Contributor
PRODUCED BY KEMMIE RYAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST AND DORIA DEBARTOLO
WARDROBE PROVIDED BY NEIMAN MARCUS AND SWEET WILLIAM
Born and raised in England, SHARMILA TAYLOR began her professional journey in London’s luxury beauty industry—managing accounts for iconic brands Christian Dior and Vivienne Westwood in some of the city’s busiest department stores. “This experience sharpened my eye for detail and style, skills that now drive my photography,” explains Taylor, who has worked as a professional photographer for six years, specializing in personal branding photography at her northwest suburban Sharmila Taylor Photography studio. “I’m passionate about creating impactful imagery that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and brands elevate their visual presence. My work is all about telling stories through headshots, editorial-style shoots, and brand visuals that resonate with your audience and drive results.” She also creates polished visuals for real estate teams, magazine editors, health and wellness coaches, actors, models, and a diverse range of business owners. “Whether you’re looking to enhance your brand or need a creative lead for larger projects, I bring passion, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence to every opportunity.”
What excites you most about the future of your industry? There’s a growing appreciation for storytelling in branding, and a deeper understanding that it takes more than a headshot to truly connect with an audience. We live in an incredibly visual world, and people are curious. They want to see the person behind the business and get a sense of what it might feel like to work with them. That sense of connection often drives engagement, and ultimately, buying decisions.
What conversations are you passionate about bringing to the table? One I care deeply about is the value of creative professionals as strategic partners, not just vendors. In my work, photography is rarely just about the photos. I take the time to get to know my clients, to understand their business, and to build a relationship that goes beyond a single session. Often, I become a sounding board, a supporter, and sometimes even a connector, sharing ideas or resources that I know will benefit their brand.
How do you maintain balance between your professional and personal life? For me, it starts with being intentional about how I spend my time and energy. I’ve learned to say “no” to projects that don’t feel like the right fit, and I focus on work that feels meaningful and creatively engaging.
For more information, visit sharmilataylorphotography.com. You may also follow her on Instagram: @sharssnaps, on Facebook @sharmilataylorphoto, or on LinkedIn @sharmilataylorphoto.
