Recruitics

• Lead creative strategy and execution for recruitment marketing and employer brand campaigns across healthcare, tech, QSR, logistics, and aerospace verticals.

• Manage a multidisciplinary team spanning art direction, copywriting, motion graphics, social marketing, experiential and online design solutions.

• Spearheaded rebrand efforts for Recruitics including new branding for their website, collateral, and brand guidelines.

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, and Strategy on pitch winning new business and ensure alignment with evolving market trends.

• Championed the use of Al-enhanced tools to mentor and upskill teammates on and future-focused creative processes.

• Lead cross-functional processes to increase operational efficiency and creative output.

• Built a creative team of high-performing within 6 months, achieving a 20% increase in project delivery efficiency utilizing agile methodologies and Al-based collaboration tools.

CLIENTS: CommonSpirit Health, Dignity Health, Catholic Healthcare Initiatives, Baylor Scott & White Health, Loma Linda University Health, Nuance Health, City of Hope, DaVita, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, VCU Health, Seattle Children’s, Bon Secours Mercy Health, Virta Health, Thermo Fisher Scientific, TouchPoint, ABS Kids, CVS, Airbus, Northrop Grumman, RTX Corporation Aerospace, Bosch, UPS, Brother, BMC Software, Quadient, GoTo, CenturyLink, Lumen, LazerLogistics, Pye-Barker, SaveATree, DentWizard, SportClips, Generac, Kimberly-Clark, Western Union, Dollar Tree, Inc., Aristocrat, Dunkin’, Inspire Brands, Chipotle, Texas Roadhouse, DoorDash, Kroger, iHerb, Noom, Chewy, Zillow, CSAA Insurance Group, Kindercare, Cady, Cedar Point, inTulsa Talent

VP, Brand & Creative

• Served as the Creative Director in the Los Angeles office working on national creative for Fortune 500 Brands; managing talent and projects for creative, account, and strategy in NY, ATL, and SF teams.

• Awarded the "Champion of the Year" for 2020.

Creative Director

CareyDesign

• Boutique design consultancy delivering brand, video, and design services for clients in entertainment, automotive, and health sectors.

• Partner with agencies and in-house teams as a freelance creative lead, providing scalable solutions for pitch work, campaign development, and overflow production needs across branding, video, and digital.

• Continuously evolving service offerings to meet market demand, including visual branding, packaging, video editing and Al-enhanced creative using tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, Descript, Adobe Firefly, ElevenLabs, Canva and Runway.

CLIENTS: Nissan, Infiniti, Mayo Clinic, UCLA Health, Dignity Health, Enclarity, Magnecomp, Premier Nutrition, Wroten & Associates Law Firm, ChristianAudio, Hovel Audio, One Audio Books, L.A. Avengers Arena Football Team, Ora-Insights, Beacon Coaching & Consulting, Murrieta Chamber of Commerce, White Labs, Corovan, EPIC Doors, Inc.

Creative Director/Owner

J. Walter Thompson Worldwide

• Served as the Creative Director in the LA office working on national creative for Fortune 500 Brands; managing talent and projects for creative, account, strategy & developer teams in New York, Atlanta, Washington DC, Seattle, San Diego and San Francisco offices.

• Creative utilization for 2018 averaged 141.5%; achieved project profit margins of 17.81%.

• Led pitch deck development for new business opportunities and creation of top case studies and marketing materials. Team wins led to 6 of top 10 agency of record clients including: T-Mobile, Samsung, Hulu, Nestlé/Nestlé Purina, Dignity Health, Mayo Clinic.

• Created client proposals, estimates and scope documents; managed partnerships with vendors and suppliers in delivery of creative work; total creative development revenue margin (5 years) averaged 27.3%.

• Created a 3-person video solutions team generating over $1.14M in first 24 months.

• Directly managed multidisciplinary team of 6 direct report creatives with $500K annual budget.

• Developed and implemented JWT INSIDE’s Interactive Delivery Process deployed across organization over last 7 years.

• Won over fifty industry awards over last 10 years – from Webby to Telly.

CLIENTS: T-Mobile, Hulu, Samsung, Microsoft, Bloomberg, ANN INC., Mary Kay, Nestlé, Nestlé Purina, Panda Express, Jack in the Box, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, UCLA Health, Dignity Health, Stanford Health Care. City of Hope, Swedish Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of State, Shell, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Raytheon, General Electric (GE Aviation), Sherwin-Williams, Waste Management, Allstate, Farmers Insurance, MUFG Americas (Union Bank), Pacific Life, Banfield Pet Hospital, Knowledge Universe, Toys”R”Us, Paramount Pictures

SCG Advertising & Public Relations (Success Communications Group)

• Opened and led the West Coast creative team for this national advertising agency.

• Secured two of the agency's highest-revenue clients in under 12 months.

CLIENTS: Best Western Hotels, Public Storage, Real Mex Restaurants (El Torito, Chevy’s, Acapulco), AltaMed, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Mercy Gilbert,  Chandler Hospital, St. Rose, Valley Hospital Medical Center, San Diego State University, Corinthian Colleges, Inc.

Drive Industries Design Group

• Joined boutique firm to help expand business offerings beyond apparel design to corporate communications including corporate identity, marketing materials and interactive.

• Elevated design billings from $4M to $6M in just 24 months.

• Won 2 awards for WGSN’s The World's Trend Authority “Top Global Trends of 2004”- including best boardshort design for Billabong with “Tag-A-Trunk.”

• Concepted apparel design work, textiles and trims – from concept to physical construction – for leading brands across the action sports industry.

• Produced corporate guidelines for merchandising and licensing of global brands; managed and recruited freelance talent in creation of apparel, trims and textile designs.

• Managed client relationships and created cost estimates for corporate design projects.

CLIENTS: Quiksilver, Billabong, Tommy Bahama, Ocean Pacific, Maui & Sons, Rusty, Hobie, Jedidiah Clothing, Razor Scooters, Calavena, Boarding Trybe, CH3, Ænigma,  Ann Taylor, Sessa, Nautica, La Blanca, Rachel Hale, Sumba Foundation, Enclarity, Roll-A-Flex Doors, Inc./Roll Right Industries, Epic Industries

Partner/Creative Director 

Hodes

• Led creative strategy for telecom, aerospace, tech and healthcare clients in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco's recruitment marketing space.

• Played a lead role in the formation of San Diego's High-Tech Consortium branding that included wireless tech, software development, aerospace, cybersecurity, biotech and life sciences companies.

• Won numerous EMA awards for recruitment advertising and collateral design/packaging.

CLIENTS: Nokia, Qualcomm, Ericsson, SAIC, Cymer, Alaris, Legoland, Upper Deck Company, Callaway Golf, Geico, L-3 Communications, Raytheon, Copper Mountain, INS (International Network Services Inc.)

Creative Director/Senior Art Director

Independent News Corp./West Coast Community Newspapers

Responsible for sales collateral communications, editorial cover designs for special sections of publications and creation of display ads for both speculative and production. West Coast Community Newspapers was comprised of 14 community newspapers covering San Diego County. Won numerous editorial and CNAEA design awards.

Advertising & Marketing Designer

The San Diego Community Newspaper Group

As Art Director for The San Diego Community Newspaper Group, I assisted in both concepting the newspaper branding and design then assisting in launching the award-winning the "La Jolla Village News" weekly newspaper. I designed the editorial layout design, the promotional materials for the paper's launch and managing the design and production of all the retail ads in the weekly publication.

I managed a team of 6 graphic designers and production artists in creating weekly retail display and classified ads for the 3 papers (Beach & Bay Press, The Peninsula Beacon, La Jolla Village News) in this San Diego network.

Art Director & Manager

Orange County Register

Was one of a team of sixteen artists responsible for R.O.P. advertising design and layouts for the Orange County Register. Serviced eleven ad reps in my division and finished the years of 1994 and 1995 being recognized as one of the top producing ad designers in the company for work output and winner of numerous editorial and CNAEA design awards.

Advertising Graphic Artist

Created advertising collateral, special editorial covers and ad layouts for 8 weekly publications for coverage in the North Orange County Market owned by The Orange County Register. Serviced 15 account reps as well as the ad manager and publisher in creation of advertising and special promotional editorial and collateral winning numerous CNAEA design awards for creative.

At the heart of every story is an idea. Ideas are about smart thinking. Effective communication. Memorable branding. And inspired design. 

My life is about taking great ideas and expressing them thoughtfully and beautifully. 

In my role, I lead teams of idea makers: art directors, writers, designers, video editors and programmers. With them, I get to go inside and explore some of the world’s leading healthcare, technology, financial services and consumer goods companies. Where we create ideas that shape their cultures and support careers for talented people.

I create ideas that build great brands, Employee Value Propositions, internal communications, digital and video solutions, content strategies, social campaigns and experiential events.

What inspires me the most is the opportunity to create ideas that have great purpose in the lives of people everywhere. Because ideas touch every part of our lives...from the buildings we work in, to the devices that connect us, and the entertainment that inspires and delights. 

Ideas help us solve problems, discover opportunities and create new experiences for the world. Let’s make some ideas today!


Specialties:
-Creative Direction  & Story Making
-Brand Building & Corporate Identity
-Graphic Design & Digital Painting
-Typography & White Space
-Advertising & Social Media
-Video Direction & Editing
-Community Building & Participation

Inspirations:
-Steve Jobs, Joe Gibbs, Steven Spielberg
-Technology & Design
-NFL Football & Mountain Bike Riding
-Family & Cats
-Movie Geek Talk & Fantasy Football

Battle Gear:
-Pencil & Sharpie
-MacBook Pro & iPad Pro w/ Apple Pencil
-Apple Keynote & Adobe Creative Cloud
-Final Cut Pro & ChatGPT Plus
-Adobe InDesign & iBooks Author
-iPhone 13 Pro Max & Apple AirPods
-DJI Osmo Pocket 3 & Insta360 GO 3S Action Pod
-Ray-Ban Meta Glasses & Sony Alpha a6000
-Apple TV & AMC Stubs A-List
-VanMoof S3 Bike & Toyota 86

Bruce Carey

💛🌍 Happy World Kindness Day! 🌍💛 A small act of kindness can change someone’s entire day...a smile, a message, a moment of patience, or a simple “How can I help?”  In a world that can feel loud and fast, kindness is still the most powerful connector we have. Let’s spread it generously today… and every day. 🤝💫 #WorldKindnessDay #SpreadGoodness #BeTheLight #SmallActsBigImpact #Humankindness

li_at

JSESSIONID

Talks about #design, #creative, #brandingdesign, #employerbranding, and #creativedirection

AI Creative Director | Generative Design & Innovation Leader

Last Fall, while in North Carolina visiting my parents for Thanksgiving, I paused under a sky filled with red, orange and gold leaves 🍁. Being a California resident, seasonal changes are not something you get a lot of...

I snapped a photo...but then I noticed something. Real inspiration rarely comes staring at a blank screen or sitting in another meeting. It usually finds you when you’re least expecting it ✨.

That messy pile of leaves was wild, bright, and a little chaotic...nothing like the usual “best practices” or polished decks. Nature has a way of breaking up sameness, and that’s what real creativity does too 🌳.

If you ever feel stuck, try stepping outside. Sometimes the best creative spark is just beyond your office door 🚪. #AutumnLeaves #InspirationEverywhere

Everywhere I look, there’s fear in the job market. 😨 People are talking about layoffs like it’s the weather. Inbox pings trigger anxiety...not opportunity. It feels like hope is on backorder.

There’s a saying..."Keep Calm and Carry On." But let’s be honest. That advice feels a little hollow when your rent is due in five days.

So why do we still lean on it? Why does it keep showing up on mugs, memes, and motivational posters?

Maybe because deep down, we know something panic tries to hide. Calm isn’t a luxury in a crisis. It’s a weapon. 🛡️

The ones who pause, breathe, and rethink their moves are the ones who make it through. Not because they’re braver. But because they’re balanced enough to see something others can’t...

Opportunity doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it whispers in the middle of chaos. This isn’t just about grit. It’s about perspective.

The market will swing up and down. 📉📈 Layoffs will come and go.

But the value of creative thinking...of people who can see beyond panic...is always in demand.

Think about the brands you respect most.
The leaders you admire.
The campaigns that moved you.
Were any of those born in times of comfort?

Or did they come from moments when someone said, “We have nothing left to lose, so let’s try something bold.”

Maybe “Carry On” isn’t about ignoring the pain. Maybe it’s about refusing to let fear be the loudest voice in the room...

When you’re staring at uncertainty, what do you do?
Do you double down on what you know?
Or do you let yourself imagine something different?

The best ideas are born in adversity.
The best people are forged in fire.
And the best stories are the ones where someone refused to give up, even when everyone else did.

So, as we limp toward the New Year, ask yourself:
Is there a story you’re waiting to write?
A skill you’ve put on hold?
A connection you’ve been scared to make?

Maybe “Keep Calm and Carry On” isn’t outdated.

Maybe it’s a challenge to see what you’re really made of when the world says it’s time to quit. 💪💪

You hear it everywhere this year: “Do more with less.” 💲 For small, nimble creative teams and solo designers, writers, developers, strategists...it’s not a slogan. It’s our daily reality.

We’re producing smart brand campaigns, social content, UX, motion, video, and brand storytelling...with limited time, limited budgets, and limited people. And yet, we still make something meaningful. 💡

The part not seen in this world of urgency? Late nights, fast learning curves, AI platforms being reinvented daily, constant prioritization, and the emotional work of keeping each other encouraged. 🤝

If there’s a silver lining, it’s this: makers, doers and creators have always known how to move fast, make smart decisions, focus on what matters, and stretch every idea into something bigger than its resources. 🚀

So yes, I’ll wear my holiday sweater proudly this year...because “doing more with less” is not a complaint...it’s a craft I’ve mastered.

To every creative person making more with less - I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m cheering you on. 🎄❤️ #DoMoreWithLess #CreativeLife #DesignCommunity #WriterLife #StrategyLife #MondayVibes

Happy birthday Martin Scorsese! 🎂🎉 Today we owe this man a nod for his great film work. Why? He doesn’t just direct movies. He invents entire worlds. 🌍

Scorsese’s films grab you in the first five minutes and don’t let go. They’re sticky. They’re iconic. Here’s the real secret: it’s not just the story. It’s the mood. The grit. The tiny details that add up until you’re living inside the film.

My Top 24 Martin Scorsese Directed Films here: 
https://boxd.it/gcVG

What ties his films together?
- Zero compromise on his vision
- Insane attention to detail 🔎
- Storytelling that’s raw, real, and impossible to ignore

In my world, that’s the gold standard. Every brand campaign should feel like a world someone wants to enter over and over.

Which Scorsese film do you keep coming back to? For me, it’s always Goodfellas. Never gets old. Every time, I find something new.

If you are interested in diving into Scorsese's life and influences- check out "Mr. Scorsese" on AppleTV- a 5-part binge goes down smooth!

Now about that “MS NOW” name rebrand in moving on from MSNBC... 🦚

I've held back on thoughts with this rebrand...I get it...when NBC spins you off, the iconic peacock can’t come with you. But changing the name to MS NOW feels like a downgrade in clarity, tone, and brand equity. 

It sounds less like a news news network and more like “Miss (Mizz) NOW”... which is honestly the first thing I hear when I say it out loud.

And that back-rationalized meaning of “My Source News Opinion World” stretches so far it could qualify for Olympic gymnastics 🤸♂️. If your name requires an acronym explainer video to land, it probably didn’t land...

The identity itself? Predictable red blue 🔴🔵. Clean enough, but homogenous and kind of forgettable. The logo isn’t eye-rolling, but the company name certainly invites it.

In a moment where trust, clarity, and differentiation matter more than ever, MS NOW's identity feels like a shrug when the world is starving for excellence. 
#branding #identitydesign #brandstrategy #corporateidentity #MSNOW

🍹🍻 Happy Happy Hour Day! 🍹🍻 Because some days deserve a toast...and others require one. 😉 Whether it’s craft cocktails, mocktails, or your favorite local brew, today’s the perfect excuse to raise a glass and unwind. 🥂💫
Here’s to good company, great stories, and that magical hour that always seems to last a little longer than it should. 🍸😎 #HappyHourDay #CheersToThat #SipSipHooray #UnwindTime

🎬 Timothee Chalamet is live on YouTube...and what a masterclass in marketing it is.

If you’ve ever sat through a “brainstorming” meeting where someone drops the phrase “synergize the triangle of success” and suddenly everyone nods like they get it...well, here’s the cinematic version.

Our guy Timothée Chalamet strolling into a mock-meeting for "Marty Supreme" (via A24), pitching ideas that seem less “let’s promote a film” and more “let’s launch an existential movement” (corroded orange ping-pong balls = culture, right?).

Find it here in all its glory: https://lnkd.in/gMtSVdur

Wow. And love the YT video file name of: "Timothee_Chalamet_internal_brand_marketing_meeting_MartySupreme_11.08.2025.mp4” Schwwwwepppe!!

As Timmy would say… “Integrate. Culminate. Fruitionize.”
#A24 #FilmPromotion #MartySupreme #TimothéeChalamet #BrandMoments

youtube.com

Timothee_Chalamet_internal_brand_marketing_meeting_MartySupreme_11.08.2025.mp4

Grateful for this community and the work created with my partners. 🙏 Wishing you a Thanksgiving full of comfort, connection, and joy. 🧡🦃

Is being thankful on Thanksgiving just a polite habit, or is it something that actually rewires how we see the world? 🤔

I needed an answer. 
So I treated gratitude as more than a holiday script. 
I made it a daily creative brief.

Here’s what happened.

Every morning, before the barrage of email, meetings, and Slack pings, I wrote down one thing I was truly thankful for... 

A small win. 
A person who inspired me. 🙌 
A wild campaign that actually worked.

At first, it felt odd. Mechanical. 
But after a few weeks, something changed.

Suddenly, tough days felt lighter. 
The pressure to be “brilliant” all the time eased up, and we actually got more creative. 🎨

Turns out, gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is perfect.

It’s about seeing what’s working, even in chaos. 
That little shift? 
It rewired the way I lead, collaborate, and show up for my teams.

Being thankful isn’t a tradition. It’s a strategy for real creative culture. #Gratitude #Thanksgiving

Reputation can change in a single scroll. 🔄 One viral TikTok. One Glassdoor review. One offhand tweet from an ex-employee. 🐦

That’s all it takes to flip a brand’s story upside down...sometimes before lunch.

Employer branding isn’t just about the big claims you make. It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. 🗣️

You can’t control every review. But you can listen...and act. 👂

Read the tough feedback. 
Change what’s broken. 
Tell people what you’re doing differently.

In my experience, the brands that admit their mistakes and fix them out in the open build more trust than those who try to sweep problems under the rug. Silence is risky. Honesty and transparency pays off. ✅

Every December, I’m reminded why Corona’s classic “O Tannenpalm” TV spot is one of the smartest pieces of simple, emotional storytelling in advertising. Watch the classic spot here: https://lnkd.in/g3W9vHpN

A quiet beach at dusk, a single palm lighting up, and a soft “Feliz Navidad”...no hard sell, no noise, just a feeling.

That restraint is exactly what shaped Corona’s long-running brand voice: slow down, breathe, enjoy life. "Miles Away From Ordinary." "Find Your Beach." All born from a spot that dared to be still.

And this year, Corona is dropping an hour-long version of this spot...perfectly on-brand invitation to pause in the middle of the holiday chaos. Sometimes the most powerful creative move is saying less. 🌴✨
#Advertising #BrandStorytelling #CreativeInspiration #HolidayAds #Corona #FelizNavidad

P.S. the title "O Tannenbaum" is a traditional German Christmas carol whose title translates to "O Fir Tree," also known in English as "O Christmas Tree."

Open video: Corona Extra Christmas commercial | Corona Extra Feliz Navidad on youtube.com

Corona Extra Christmas commercial | Corona Extra Feliz Navidad

Great ideas don’t come from one genius...they come from teams willing to battle it out ⚡️

Every breakthrough I’ve seen started with smart people clashing over what works and what doesn’t.

You need:
- People who aren’t afraid to throw “bad” ideas in the mix 💡
- Space for real debate, not just nodding along 🗣
- Trust, so anyone can challenge anyone else

It’s not about having all the “rockstars.” 

It’s about building a culture where everyone feels safe to take creative risks...even if it means tossing out the original plan 🚀

The best creative teams don’t just agree...they collide, debate, and turn sparks into ideas that power the world of work!

The best creative leaders know when to break their own rules. 🚦 Sticking with “how it’s always been done” kills fresh thinking fast. 💤

Real progress happens when you encourage curiosity, risk-taking, and wild ideas...even if some flop. 🚀

I’ve seen it over and over: Give people room to experiment, and innovation follows. 🌱 How are you helping your team take more creative risks?

🎲💰 Happy National Play Monopoly Day! 🎲💰 Today's the day to channel your inner real estate mogul, pass Go, collect $200, and try very hard not to flip the board when someone buys Boardwalk first (I'm looking at you Daniel Craig). 😅🏠✨ 

Whether you’re a ruthless tycoon, or just in it for the snacks, today’s all about friendly competition...and maybe a little financial “creativity.” What’s your go-to token? The top hat, the dog, or the race car? 🚗🐶🎩 LMK! #MonopolyDay #GameNightFun #RollTheDice #ClassicGames

📺 Happy World Television Day! 📺 From prestige drama on HBO, classic sitcoms on NBC, Sunday football on YouTube TV 🏈, to reality chaos to binge-worthy streaming on Netflix and Hulu, TV has shaped our stories, our culture... 😄🍿 

And can I  just say how grateful we are that today’s TVs aren’t the back-breaking heavy beasts we had in the 90s? If you ever moved one of those lead weights, you earned a medal. 🏋️‍♂️😂 

Whether you grew up with Saturday morning cartoons or you’re deep into your latest binge, today’s the perfect day to celebrate the screen that brings us a whole lot of escapism... What show are you loving right now? 👀 #WorldTelevisionDay #TVMagic #BingeWorthy #PopCultureLove #StreamOn

How many times have you heard, “Make it bigger, bolder, faster!” in a brainstorm, only for the idea to get watered down by process or silos? 💡

What if, instead, we focused on making it smarter? Over the years, I’ve found that the best creative breakthroughs often come not from louder ideas, but from teams who trust each other enough to push boundaries. 

When you blend creative courage, open dialogue, and the right tech. Like generative AI that removes friction from execution 🤖, a culture of innovation forms naturally. The result isn’t just campaigns that win awards 🏆, but platforms that create real, measurable impact for brands and talent alike.

Are we prioritizing brave thinking as much as bold visuals? In a world obsessed with speed, it’s creativity and culture that set real leaders apart. I’d love to hear: how are you fostering this balance in your teams? 🔥

Thanksgiving isn’t about the turkey. It’s about how people show up for each other around the table 🦃...stories, laughter, little moments that stick.

Teams can work the same way.

The best creative sessions I’ve been part of? Never about who had the loudest voice or the biggest title. They worked because everyone brought something to the table. No ego.

Just ideas, honesty, and space to listen 👂.

Gratitude is rocket fuel for creativity 🚀.

Saying “thanks” for small wins, wild ideas, and even the mistakes—that’s how trust builds.

So before your next project sprint or brainstorm, try this: ask your team what they’re grateful for.

Pause. Let people be real.

You’ll be surprised where it takes you ⭐.

Creative magic happens when every seat at the table matters.

This week, that’s what I’m thankful for—in work and in life.

Who at your table are you grateful for? 🙏

What story is your brand telling...inside? 🧐 Brand growth isn’t just about the campaigns we launch or the products we build....it's deeply rooted in the everyday moments shared by our teams. 

The most magnetic employer brands don’t just talk about culture, they live it through authentic storytelling, creative collaboration, and a relentless curiosity to improve. ✨

If you want your company’s reputation to thrive (not just survive), start by empowering your people to be storytellers. Give them a platform. Celebrate small wins as vigorously as major milestones. 🎉

In an age where every Glassdoor postings can shape public perception overnight, building an employer brand from the inside out isn’t optional...it’s essential. 🚀

In the race 🏁 to deliver innovative campaigns, are we missing the real magic? ✨

It’s easy to get swept up by the power of generative AI or the latest tech stack...faster mockups, dynamic scripts, endless variations at our fingertips. 

But true creative leadership isn’t about chasing every shiny new tool. It’s about knowing when technology should take a backseat so human insight can drive. 🤔

Great storytelling starts with empathy and ends with action. Technology accelerates us, but only vision and connection inspire audiences to care. Are you using AI to elevate your team’s ideas—or just to speed up production? The difference defines creative impact...and future growth. 🚀

Let’s keep experimenting, but never forget 🤔 why we create in the first place.

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dnb Productions

I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. 

My team and I strive to deliver exceptional results that exceed our clients’ expectations. Every project is an opportunity to explore new creative avenues and bring innovative ideas to fruition.

My journey began in broadcast production with networks like ESPN and Nickelodeon, where I learned the importance of captivating storytelling. Working with corporate clients such as Shell and BP, I merged visual creativity with strategic communication to produce impactful content.

A memorable moment in my career has been capturing live sports for teams like the Houston Texans and New York Yankees. This experience honed my ability to capture the essence of a moment quickly and precisely—skills that translate seamlessly to corporate events and executive portraits.

Beyond technical roles, my passion lies in crafting narratives through photography. 

Whether it’s a dynamic headshot for a LinkedIn profile, a captivating portrait for a corporate website, or vibrant coverage of a corporate event, I aim to create visuals that leave a lasting impact.

We specialize in executive and corporate event headshots, as well as event booth photography. We understand the need for professional, engaging imagery that reflects your brand’s identity and connects with your audience.

 Our approach is highly collaborative; we work closely with each client to understand their story and how they want to be portrayed. This connection allows us to capture images that resonate with authenticity and depth.

Building this company has been a labor of love, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for innovation. We're committed to telling stories that matter, stories that inspire and provoke thought.

If you’re looking to elevate your next corporate event or need striking headshots that capture your professional essence, let’s connect and create something extraordinary.

Founder, Principal

Douglas N Burns Portraits

My journey as a photographer began with a passion for people and storytelling. 

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition and awards for my work, which has only fueled my dedication to the craft. I founded my own photography business to merge my love for art with my interest in human connection. 

From the start, my goal was to move beyond the basic headshot and create portraits that genuinely capture the essence of the individuals I photograph.

The inspiration to start my venture came from observing a growing need for business portraits that tell a story. Professionals wanted images that conveyed their journeys and personalities, not just their professional appearance. 

I saw an opportunity to fill this gap by offering a more personalized and artistic approach to corporate photography.

Building my business has been a labor of love. I’ve dedicated countless hours to mastering lighting, composition, and posing to ensure each portrait I create is not just a photograph but a piece of art. 

My process is highly collaborative; I work closely with each client to understand their story and how they want to be portrayed. This connection allows me to capture images that resonate with authenticity and depth.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the impact a powerful portrait can have. A well-crafted image can boost confidence, make a lasting impression, and tell a story that words alone cannot. I'm passionate about helping people present their best selves to the world, whether it’s through a dynamic headshot or a compelling portrait for a corporate website.

From the boardroom to homes, I strive to craft portraits that showcase individuality and expertise in a natural and captivating way. 

Every portrait is an opportunity to connect, to tell a story, and to celebrate the unique qualities that make each person remarkable. 

It is this passion for people and storytelling that drives me every day and fuels my photography journey.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Manager, Broadcast Studio Scoring 

Culturally Creative Travel

We understand that vacation planning can be time-consuming and overwhelming. With busy lives and demanding schedules, finding the perfect getaway can feel impossible.

That's where we come in. Our mission is to give you back your valuable time and take the stress out of vacation planning, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – enjoying your well-deserved break.

We go to great lengths to create and find the perfect vacation package, presenting only the best travel options that align with your interests, budget, and schedule. 

Our dedication to personalized service ensures that each journey is meticulously planned and flawlessly executed, offering you an unforgettable travel experience.

Our Specialties:

- Luxury Travel: Indulge in the finest experiences with our luxury travel packages. From opulent accommodations to exclusive access and personalized services, we create bespoke itineraries that cater to the most discerning travelers. 

- Family Reunions: Strengthen bonds and create lasting memories with our customized family reunion packages. We design engaging itineraries that cater to all ages, ensuring that every family member has a memorable experience. 

- Corporate Training Events: Elevate your corporate events with our expertly planned training retreats. We specialize in organizing corporate training events that blend professional development with unique travel experiences. 

- Customized Itineraries: Whether you're planning a group trip or an individual adventure, our customized itineraries are designed to meet your specific needs and interests

Why Us?

- Personalized Service: Every detail of your vacation is tailored to your preferences.

- Stress-Free Planning: We handle the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

- Memorable Experiences: We create vacations that are enjoyable, enriching, and transformative.

Let us help you create the vacation you've always imagined.

Co-Founder, Principal

🔍 I’m Douglas, a native Texan, world traveler, and proud dog dad to Peanut. My journey behind the lens began with a childhood fascination, sparked by the captivating images in National Geographic Magazine. This passion blossomed in college, where I honed my skills and developed a profound appreciation for visual storytelling.

As an Award-Winning Corporate Photographer, I bring over 20 years of professional experience to every project. I've enhanced the brand identity of more than 800 professionals, helping them communicate their unique value through compelling imagery.

𝗪𝗛𝗢 𝗜’𝗩𝗘 𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗣𝗘𝗗

My work has taken me across the globe, contributing to prestigious projects with National Geographic TV, ESPN, BBC, Fox News, CNN, and notable personalities like Dr. Phil, Yao Ming and George Foreman. Each experience has enriched my understanding of people, enabling me to create photographs that capture moments and evoke emotions.

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗜 𝗗𝗢

📸 Corporate Photographer: I specialize in stunning corporate headshots that convey professionalism and authenticity. My on-site photo studio ensures consistency across your team, using custom digital and traditional backgrounds, and personalized coaching to bring out the best in each individual, resulting in a cohesive visual representation of your brand.

𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗪𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞 𝗧𝗢𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥

🌟 𝗧𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀:  We bring the studio to you, ensuring a seamless experience capturing your brand's essence. The results are immediate, with instant viewing and image selection on-site, followed by professional editing and secure online delivery.

🌟 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝘀: Ideal for businesses with a widespread workforce, our headshot booth ensures stunning and uniform headshots. Participants benefit from private proofing galleries and instant email delivery. The booth sponsor receives the comprehensive lead list and has the option to brand the individual private galleries for an additional touch point to the participants, with zero administrative work for you.

🌟 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: I offer private consulting workshops to help businesses refine their visual storytelling. These sessions cover headshot techniques to brand imaging strategies, providing personalized guidance to elevate your company’s visual impact.

Through my lens, I strive to capture the unique essence of individuals and brands, creating images that resonate and inspire.

📸 Ready to start your journey?

╰┈➤ Click on the link in my bio.

Douglas N Burns

Every year, my wife and I step out of the office for our board of directors retreat.

We’re the only board members of our company, so this is our time to work on the business, not just in it.

No emails.
No day-to-day demands.
No routines pulling us in different directions.

Just a new setting, open conversation, and plenty of honest questions:
- What did we accomplish this year?
- Where did we stall?
- What do we want to change?

This year, our “boardroom” was a little special: a cruise ship in the middle of the Caribbean.

It sounds relaxing, and it is—but more important, it’s a chance to see the big picture, get clear on priorities, and set our direction for the year ahead.

If you run a business, I highly recommend breaking away once in a while. Sometimes the best decisions happen far from your usual workspace.

Enhancing Your Brand’s Visual Storytelling with Stunning Corporate Headshots | Award-Winning Houston Corporate Photographer | 20+ Years that Elevates Brand Identity for 800+ Professionals including CNN, Fox News, ESPN

Ever notice how the clients who grow your business aren't usually the ones who fill your inbox with endless proposal requests?

I've spent over twenty years behind the camera, 

meeting every kind of professional and executive you can imagine. 

I've fielded long RFPs, detailed proposal rounds, and bucketloads of “we’ll get back to you.” 

But when I look back, the real growth in my business has come from a specific kind of client. 

They're not the ones who make you jump through hoops. 

They're the ones who trust your expertise and come to you because they actually want results.

Those are the relationships that last. 

They’re the clients who stick around for years, refer you to their colleagues, and show up every time their brand or team needs a refresh.

My most transformational projects never started with a 10-page questionnaire or a bidding war. 

They started with a real conversation about goals, trust, and how visual storytelling can move their business forward.

I get it, sometimes procurement has its own process, and I respect that. 

But the difference is clear: 

The high-value clients see you as a partner, not just another vendor. 

They want to talk about the story behind the headshot, the why behind the branding. 

They care about how their people show up in the world, and they know a strong image opens doors.

Here's what I’ve learned:

- The best results come from real collaboration, not endless back-and-forth.

- The photos that transform a brand are always built on trust, not paperwork.

- Clients who value your craft are the ones who send referrals, come back for updates, and become part of your own professional story.

If you ever feel stuck chasing every proposal and feeling like just another item in someone’s comparison chart, take a step back. 

The real business builders are looking for a partner, not just a price.

This is true in every industry, but it’s front and center in photography. 

Images are personal. 

Trust is everything. 

And the people who "get it" are the ones you want to work with long-term.

Have you seen the same thing on your side of the business? 

Which clients actually move the needle for you?

Ever tried running a business when your home feels like a building site?

Right now, I'm living it.

Drywall dust covers everything. 

Tools stacked in every corner. 

Contractors drifting in and out all day. 

My home office? 

It looks less like a workspace, 

more like a behind-the-scenes blooper reel.

Here’s the reality:

The calls don’t stop.

Clients still need answers.

Big and small decisions have to get made.

And yes, my dog has no idea what's happening.

Business doesn't hit pause just because your walls are coming down.

It’s definitely not glamorous. 

This is not the polished version you see on social media. 

But it’s real life, and the work keeps moving.

Still showing up.

Still making progress.

Still grateful for it all, even in the mess.

(Photo: yesterday’s chaos in all its glory)

Everyone thinks running a creative business is all big moments and bright lights.

The reality? 

It's a lot less glamorous than it looks from the outside.

It's about showing up, every day, and doing the stuff nobody sees. 

The boring work. 

The tiny improvements. 

The follow-ups, the emails, the early alarms.

This year reminded me just how true that is.

Here are the three biggest lessons that stuck with me:

𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗼𝘀.

If your back end is messy, your client experience will be too. 

Systems, processes, and automation aren’t just nice to have, 

they're what buy back your time and keep the work moving forward.

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝗱𝘀.

No matter how polished your website or how much you spend on marketing, 

the best work keeps coming from people, referrals, introductions, and the reputation you build one job at a time.

𝗠𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗺 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

Motivation is great when you have it, but it fades. 

What lasts is getting up and doing the work, especially on the days you don’t feel like it. 

Over time, that momentum is what moves everything forward.

Creative businesses are built in the unglamorous moments. 

That’s where the real growth happens.

Anyone else feel this?

LinkedIn

(35) Feed | LinkedIn

Ever notice how everyone says they want something different, but it all boils down to the same thing?

Today I talked with a CPA deep in healthcare M&A, then turned around and met with a marketing strategist. 

Two totally different worlds. 

Different industries, 

different personalities, 

different day-to-day headaches.

You’d expect their expectations from photography to be miles apart.

But here’s what surprised me: 

both told me almost the exact same thing.

They're tired of the noise. 

They just want results.

They don't care about fancy filters, complicated setups, or trendy edits. 

They want images that make them look confident, trustworthy, and professional. 

They want to be taken seriously. 

They want their brand to look as bold as their ambitions.

That hit home for me. 

Because no matter who walks into my studio, the goal never changes

helping people show up as their best selves, 

and making sure their headshot or portrait actually does the work.

Here’s what I’ve learned after 20+ years, working with everyone from Fortune 500 execs to brand-new entrepreneurs:

It’s not about chasing trends.

It’s not about pretending to be someone you’re not.

It’s about showing people who you are, with absolute clarity.

That’s why I built my business around one thing: creating images that speak for you before you say a single word.

No clutter. 

No fluff. 

Just photos that make you look like a leader.

Because in the end, everyone wants the same thing

something real that actually works.

If your photo doesn’t open doors or start conversations, what’s the point?

Are you still settling for images that don’t do you justice?

Grateful for the clients, partners, and friends who keep the work meaningful.
Wishing you a peaceful Thanksgiving.

from DNB Productions Hey friends, The best light isn’t always the brightest — it’s the kind that reminds us where we stand and who stands with us. I’m

Open article: Happy Thanksgiving by Douglas N Burns • 1 min read

Almost at the end of 2025.

For me, this is the real crunch time.

The last shoots, last edits, and making sure every detail lines up for clients before the clock resets.

If you're winding down for the holiday weekend, that's not wasted time.

Rest, recharge

let your brain breathe. 

January always shows up fast, and being ready matters more than any all-nighter in December.

I use this quiet stretch to plan, organize, and clear a path for a sharper start.

Wrap up what you can, let go of what you can't, and get set for what's next.

Finishing strong starts now.

*The Headshot Rule Nobody Talks About*

Your team doesn’t care about the camera you use.

They care about whether they look like they belong next to their peers.

Ever looked at a company’s “Meet the Team” page and thought, does this crew even work together?

It happens when there’s no plan with headshots. 

I’ve seen it too many times. 

One photographer, 

three lighting styles, 

four backgrounds, 

five editing approaches.

The result? 

A team page that looks like a ransom note.

Everyone’s photo tells a different story. 

Some look like LinkedIn, 

some like a passport, 

and some like a college yearbook. 

That’s not a brand. 

That’s chaos.

So here’s the fix:

Pick a lighting style. 

Stick to it.

Set one look for backgrounds, outfits, and direction.

Suddenly, the whole team looks like they belong on the same winning side. 
It’s not about fancy gear. 

It’s about consistency.

That’s the difference between “we hired a photographer” and “we look like a brand.”

If the faces of your company represent your brand… how do you look when you show up?

This week’s newsletter is about the quiet Q1 decision most teams overlook and why it matters more than ever going into 2026.  👇

Hey friends, If the faces of your company represent your brand… how do you look when you show up? Before a word is spoken, before a proposal is read o

Open article: Your Brand Walks In Before You Do by Douglas N Burns • 2 min read

I’ve learned more about teamwork from firefighters than from any business book.

When you’re on a fire crew, there’s no time for ego or confusion. 

Everyone knows their job. 

Everyone trusts the person next to them. 

If things change, you adapt together.

That’s exactly the mindset I bring to every production day.

It’s not about following a script. 

It’s about being prepared, staying calm, and communicating.

On a shoot, things can go sideways fast. 

Lighting fails. 

Schedules shift. 

Something unexpected always happens.

But if you trust your crew and everyone is clear on their role, 

you can keep moving, keep creating, and get the job done safely and with great results.

The best teams don’t just follow the plan. 

They adapt together and have each other’s backs.

That’s how you get the shot.

Most photographers treat their camera like it's the whole job.

I used to do the same until I realized photography is a business, not just an art.

That shift changed everything.

I stopped guessing and started running my work like a real business. 

I began asking, "What problem am I solving for my client?" 

That question became my roadmap.

I built systems for workflow, pricing, and client protection. 

No more winging it.

I chose to focus on services that actually scale

on-site headshots and branding photography for business clients. 

My goal: solve real problems, not just take pretty pictures.

I started shooting work that clarifies, connects, and stands out. 

Not just "nice images," but images with purpose and real business impact.

This industry moves fast. 

If you're not intentional about running your business, you'll get left behind.

If you’re a photographer (or any creative pro) asking, "What next?" here are three questions to get moving:

- What business problem am I solving for my ideal client?

- Can my workflow scale without burning me out?

- Am I building a reputation for more than just "nice images" for real results?

Right now, I’m building my foundation to create a client-focused brand that balances creativity and sustainable growth. 

The strategy isn’t perfect yet, but the momentum is real.

If you’re in the visual business and want to talk systems, pricing, or how to turn your craft into a business engine, reach out.

Let’s raise the bar for our industry.

Ever watched a whole team see themselves in a new light?

After a recent headshot project, I sent the gallery link to the client. 

The HR manager replied:

"These look like the version of our team we want clients to meet first."

That’s what it’s all about.

A unified headshot experience isn’t just about flattering angles and good lighting. 

It’s about giving a team a visual identity that feels true to who they are; confident, polished, and connected.

When people see themselves represented well, something shifts. Morale goes up. 

There’s a sense of pride.

And when clients see a team represented well, trust builds. 

They feel like they already know who they’ll be working with.

Simple idea, big impact.

Here’s to the companies investing in their people and in the brand that represents them.

"How long will it take?"

That's the question I hear most from companies shopping for a photographer.

But here's the thing

if your main goal is speed, 

you’re looking in the wrong direction.

Sure, I can photograph 40 people in two hours.

Will you love how everyone looks? 

Probably not.

Great photography isn't about how fast you move through the checklist.

It’s about what people feel when they see the result.

Confidence. 

Approachability. 

Trust.

If you want pictures that actually support your brand,

Start by asking better questions:

What do these images say about us?

What do we want people to feel?

The stopwatch doesn't build your brand.

The right image does.

A new trend is showing up in boardrooms, not just in photo studios.

It’s not just “We need new headshots.”

More companies are treating their team photos as a business strategy.

Here’s what I’m seeing in the field:

Recruiting? 

Candidates want to see real people not blurry thumbnails from 2017.

Marketing? 

When every headshot looks like it belongs to the same company, customers notice. 

It builds trust.

Client relationships? 

People want to work with people. 

If your team looks present, real, and coordinated, you’re already a step ahead.

Employer brand? 

That first impression happens way before the call. 

Your team’s visuals set the tone.

But this is where most businesses miss the mark:

Strong team images aren’t about chasing perfection.

It’s about clarity and consistency. 
- Same lighting.
- Same background.
- Same framing.
- Authentic expressions.

When your team shows up with that kind of unity, it sends a message: “We’re not just individuals, we’re a team. We’re intentional.”

A lot of Houston companies are already planning for 2026.

If your team photos aren’t part of that planning, you’re leaving trust on the table.

Logos open doors, but faces build the brand.

Most people think headshots are just about those few seconds in front of the camera.

They’re missing the real story.

It’s all about the environment you set up before you even raise the camera. 

The lighting. 

The mood. 

The way the whole room feels. 

That’s what makes the difference between an average photo and a great one.

This week's corporate session was a reminder of this. 

We kept it simple

clean lighting, smooth workflow, steady rhythm. 

Each person stepped in, felt comfortable, and left looking like the best version of themselves.

Nothing fancy. 

Just the real work it takes to make a team look consistent and confident, shot after shot.

That’s the part no one ever sees in the final image.

When people feel comfortable, the images show it every time.

Headshots can do more than just refresh your LinkedIn. 

They can open doors for others, too.

This season, every time a company books a headshot session with DNB Productions, 

𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝗴𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 Dress for Success Houston

That means when you invest in your team’s professional image, 

you’re also helping women in Houston rebuild their careers and step into new opportunities.

Simple. Direct. A win for your brand and for the community.

Want to make your company’s next headshot day about something bigger?

Here’s how to get involved:

Open article: Dress For Sucess Houston - Headshot Give Back by go.dnbproductions.com

Dress For Sucess Houston - Headshot Give Back

The words “company photo day” make most people nervous.

Executives dread the chaos. 

HR fears no-shows. 

Employees worry they’re not “camera ready.”

So what actually happens when I photograph an entire company in one day?

Here’s a quick reality check:

- A simple 10-minute prep guide turns down the stress for almost everyone.

- Lighting and backdrop? Totally consistent, so every department looks like one team.

- Images delivered instantly; no long waits, no follow-up emails.

- HR gets to relax, because no one has to chase people or fix mistakes afterward.

The best part: it’s not just a photo session.

It’s a moment where people see themselves as part of something bigger. 

That builds pride in the brand, and it shows in every shot.

If you think “photo day” is a hassle, maybe you’ve just never seen it run the right way.

If you’re the one who has to organize these days, don’t do it blind.

I built The HR Director’s Playbook from real company photo days; 

prep scripts, timelines, and the exact process I use so your team looks unified without the chaos.

Open article: The HR Director's Playbook by go.dnbproductions.com

Mid-December feels like a strange in-between.

The year isn’t quite over,

but suddenly there’s breathing room to actually see what’s ahead.

Ever notice how your brand photos keep talking, even when you’re not?

They say who you serve, 

the level you’re operating at, 

and even hint at the work you wish you had more of.

So here’s a question for right now:

Are your visuals pointing toward the future you want,

or are they stuck in the past?

This time of year is a rare window.

Everything slows down just enough to let you see your story with new eyes.

Take a moment. 

Look at your brand imagery.

If you’re not where you want to be in 2024, what needs to change?

Clarity now makes momentum automatic later.

The Call and the Quiet explores the space between action and stillness — portraits of those who meet chaos with calm precision.

This is the beginning of a long-term series honoring the men and women who stand ready when the alarm sounds.

Where duty meets humanity Hey friends, This new series honors the men and women who run toward heat, chaos, and danger with calm precision. Each portr

The Call and the Quiet

Some weeks remind you exactly why you play the long game.

This is one of them.

I’m honored to be featured in Spotlight Magazine’s issue on Corporate, Industrial, and Healthcare Photography. 

These aren’t just technical sectors. 

They’re fields where trust and consistency mean everything.

If you’ve ever visited a lab, refinery, factory floor, or hospital, you know there’s no margin for sloppy work. 

Not for the people working there. 

Not for the photographer documenting them, either.

My job is about more than pressing a shutter. 

It’s about showing people the way they see themselves at their best: confident, skilled, part of something important.

That doesn’t change, whether I’m running a headshot booth for hundreds of professionals or sneaking in a portrait before sunrise on the shop floor.

Getting recognized feels great. 

But earning trust from my clients, project after project, is what really motivates me.

That’s why the long game matters.

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