Melissa Seixas - Duke Energy President
Assignment Details
Client: Dalton Agency / Advertising - Public Relations Firm
Assignment: Magazine Feature of Melissa Seixas, Florida President of Duke Energy
Location: Duke Energy's corporate office in St. Petersburg, FL
Date: June 2025
Assignment Highlights
One of the most rewarding parts of my work as a photographer is the opportunity to meet and capture the personalities of people who are shaping our communities. Recently, I had the privilege of photographing the Melissa Seixas, Florida President of Duke Energy for a magazine feature — an assignment that was both inspiring and energizing.
From the moment she walked into the room, her presence was undeniable. Charismatic, approachable, and confident, she carried the kind of leadership aura that instantly puts people at ease. My goal was to reflect that balance of authority and warmth through the images, making sure her personality shone as much as her professional role.
The shoot took place at Duke Energy's corporate office in St. Petersburg. I chose a mix of environmental portraits in the lobby and board rooms that showcased her connection to Florida’s energy landscape, as well as clean, editorial-style headshots suitable for a magazine spread. Lighting played a key role — I wanted to create a look that felt both professional and inviting, with crisp highlights and natural tones.
What stood out most was her ease in front of the camera. Often, corporate shoots can feel stiff, but she approached the session with genuine enthusiasm and a willingness to engage. That authenticity translated directly into the photos, resulting in a collection of images that not only highlight her leadership but also his down-to-earth charisma.
Assignments like this remind me why I love what I do — photography is more than capturing an image; it’s about telling a story. In this case, it was the story of a leader driving Florida’s energy future, brought to life through portraits that combine professionalism with personality.
Assignment Challenges
Every photoshoot comes with its own unique set of challenges, but that’s part of what makes photography so rewarding.
The Environment
Corporate offices are designed for efficiency, not photography. Neutral-colored walls, fluorescent lighting, and limited natural light can make it difficult to create dynamic portraits. Fortunately, Duke Energy invested in beautiful artwork featuring photos of energy infrastructure throughout. The lobby was filled with blue artistic panels that caught my attention as soon has I walked in.
Time Constraints
As the president of a major energy company, Melissa’s schedule is tightly packed. I had only a short window to get everything right — lighting, composition, and posing — without making the shoot feel rushed. Preparation was key. I arrived early, scouted multiple locations within the office, and pre-lit the spaces to ensure the session flowed smoothly.
Authenticity vs. Formality
Corporate portraits often run the risk of feeling stiff or overly posed. My goal was to strike a balance between professionalism and approachability. Melissa’s natural charisma made that easier — she was engaged, relaxed, and willing to trust the process. Still, it was up to me to direct with confidence and create an environment where she could shine naturally.
In the end, the challenges only elevated the experience. The resulting portraits reflect Melissa’s strength as a leader while capturing the approachable qualities that have made her such a respected figure in Florida’s energy landscape.
This assignment was a reminder that great portraits don’t just happen — they’re the result of preparation, adaptability, and connection. And in this case, the final images tell the story of a leader whose energy goes well beyond her title.