With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering passion for capturing the essence of her subjects, Tess Steinkolk has established herself as one of NYC’s premier headshot and portrait photographers. Tess specializes in creating images that are as authentic as they are striking, whether for actors, professionals, or anyone looking to present their best self. Her ability to put clients at ease during sessions allows her to bring out genuine expressions and create portraits that feel both natural and deeply personal. With years of experience in the industry, Tess combines technical expertise with artistic intuition, ensuring every shot reflects her clients' unique stories and aspirations. Tess’s work is more than just photography—it’s a collaboration rooted in trust, creativity, and professionalism. Her studio is a welcoming space where clients are encouraged to embrace their individuality and feel empowered in front of the lens. From polished headshots that open doors to portraits that celebrate milestones, Tess delivers images that resonate with warmth and clarity. Whether you're seeking to elevate your personal brand or preserve meaningful moments, Tess Steinkolk is committed to delivering a transformative and uplifting experience to each and every client.
BIO
Tess' career began with Living Stage, the improvisational theatrical outreach company in residence at the prestigious Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. Her original interest was in play-writing but her growing interest in classic black & white portraiture was inspired by the works of many legendary photographers such as Irving Penn, August Sander, Dorothea Lange and many others. It was honed at her job at Arena Stage. As executive assistant to Living Stage, an improvisational and politically minded Equity company, she photographed the company's pioneering theatrical work with prisoners at Lorton Reformatory, a maximum security prison in Lorton, Virginia. Her portfolio of those photographs were shown at Arena Stage in 1980, the first of her portrait exhibitions.
While attending Corcoran Art School she was also the photographer for Events, Inc. for which she photographed the US Senate and House during the Iran Hostage Crisis in the Carter administration.
In 1981, Tess moved to New York City and opened a portrait studio that has continuously attracted a steady stream of actors, musicians, authors and corporate executives.
Client List
AMERICAN EXPRESS
MORGAN STANLEY
CBS
LIFETIME TELEVISION
GLOBAL ATLANTIC
VIACOM
SUNDANCE CHANNEL
TURNER BROADCASTING
A+E NEWWORK
MTV
HARRY WALKING AGENCY
NIKE
BRATSKEIR & COMPANY
TRU TV
RDF USA
ESQUIRE MAGAZINE
UNIVISION
NBC
GETNICK LAW
HOLM & O’HARA LAW
LINKEDIN
REID/COLLINS/TSAI
CPI FINANCIAL
TIME WARNER
HEALIX INTERNATIONAL
GOLDEN & ASSOCIATES
IMAGINARY VENTURES
FRESH DIRECT
ENDEAVOR GROUP
PATHSTONE
NORTH STANDARD
HWA
INTER OIL
SIGNAL HILL
OMNI VISTA
ICE MILLER
WORTH MAGAZINE
UA BUILDERS
WAFRA
HAYMARKET
HISTORY CHANNEL
VIBRANT CAPITAL
DISNEY/ESPN
PARK MADISON PARTNERS
VANGUARD MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATE SLAND CAPITAL PARTNERS
