Professional Headshots in Golden, Colorado
Relaxed, natural portraits for professionals who want to look and feel like themselves
Gustavo reached out to me looking for some fresh professional headshots as he made a transition into commercial real estate.
I had worked with his family the year before photographing him, his wife, their 4 month old son, and their adventure pup, so it was great to reconnect.
He wanted something clean and refined, but still natural. Nothing too gaudy or pretentious. More approachable, confident, and genuine. With his warm, easygoing smile and demeanor, that part came pretty naturally.
We decided to meet in downtown Golden, Colorado on a beautiful spring morning and got an early start before the crowds rolled in. We kicked things off at Windy Saddle Cafe, grabbed a coffee, and caught up a bit talking about life with young kids and what fatherhood has been like for both of us.
From there, we grabbed a window seat and eased into things. I kept it really relaxed, shooting as we talked, using a bit of light flash to give the images a refined look without feeling heavy or overdone.
After that, we wandered through downtown Golden and let the environment guide us. We stopped wherever the light felt good. A bench surrounded by blooming spring flowers, along Clear Creek with the sound of rushing water, and a few quiet corners that gave us that true Colorado aesthetic.
Working with Gustavo is always a pleasure. It never really feels merely like a shoot, more like catching up with an old friend.
At the end, he walked me over to his car and handed me a bag of baby clothes for our son Kellen. His son Luca is a few months older, and their family has been incredibly kind in passing things along as he grows out of them.
I always appreciate when it starts as a working relationship and grows into a truer friendship and lasting relationship.
I’m looking forward to photographing their family again this summer when Luca turns one.
Here’s what Gustavo had to say about his experience:
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ryan multiple times now and will continue to do so. From family portraits to professional headshots, Ryan nails it every time.
He is kind, professional, creative, and super down to earth. It’s so easy to have photos taken with him because he creates a comfortable and laid back atmosphere. I would strongly recommend him to anyone.”

