What to Wear for Your Photoshoot: Choosing Backdrops, Colour, and Style for Headshots & Branding

How to dress for your personality and your brand.

Your clothing isn’t just fabric — it’s part of your story. Ask yourself:

  • What do I want people to feel when they see my photo?

  • Does this outfit reflect my professional values?

  • Is it authentic to who I am?

For example, a modern, casual power look could be black leather trousers, a blazer, and a statement necklace. This outfit signals confidence, creativity, and approachability. Pair it with a white tee to keep it fresh and relatable.

Tip: Avoid trends that don’t feel like you. Authenticity is always more compelling than trying to fit a generic “professional” mold.

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The Magic of the First Few Frames: Why Authentic Headshots Start Before You Even Notice the Camera

There’s something quietly magical about the first few frames of a headshot session. Before the poses settle in, before the sitter fully realises how they’re holding themselves — something real happens. A flicker of truth. A glimpse of calm.

As a portrait photographer based in Brighton and Hove, I’ve come to love those early, almost throwaway moments. When you’re adjusting your hair, taking a breath, or laughing at how awkward it feels to be in front of the camera — that’s when your real self shows up. And those are often the most beautiful frames of all.

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Mobile Headshot Photography in Brighton & Hove – Professional Portraits Made Easy.

Mobile Headshot Photography in Brighton and Hove - Professional Portraits Made Easy.

If you’re looking for professional headshots in Brighton and Hove, but don’t want the hassle of booking a studio, my mobile headshot service is designed for you. Whether you’re a local business, freelancer, or creative, I’ll bring my professional lighting, backdrop, and camera equipment directly to your office or home.

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West Hove Studio: A New Creative Space for Founders, Artists & Photographers

At the start of summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the open evening at West Hove Studio – a brand new creative space in Hove designed for founders, artists, photographers, and small business owners. Created by Tracey, Gareth and Georgia, the studio has been thoughtfully designed as a flexible, inspiring hub where you can host workshops, display your art, run events, or even hire it as a photography studio.

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swimwear, brand, outdoor swimmer Justine Desmond swimwear, brand, outdoor swimmer Justine Desmond

Model Folio shoot with Tommy - repped by Next Management

I work with independent fashion and lifestyle brands to create image-led campaigns that feel confident, characterful and commercially sharp. Based in Brighton & Hove — minutes from the beach — I specialise in location-based editorial photography for launches, lookbooks and content. If you’re looking for imagery that captures mood, movement and a sense of story, I’d love to hear from you.

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swimwear, brand, outdoor swimmer Justine Desmond swimwear, brand, outdoor swimmer Justine Desmond

Bettylicious Retro: Marilyn-Inspired Swimwear Launch

I work with independent fashion and lifestyle brands to create image-led campaigns that feel confident, characterful and commercially sharp. Based in Brighton & Hove — minutes from the beach — I specialise in location-based editorial photography for launches, lookbooks and content. If you’re looking for imagery that captures mood, movement and a sense of story, I’d love to hear from you.

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Justine Desmond Justine Desmond

Mentorship by me for you.

Got questions about building your photography career, handling tricky client shoots or just want to feel more confident behind the camera?

Let’s sort it with a 1:1 coaching session with me. Before our call I’ll do a proper deep dive into what you’re hoping to get out of it - so the hour is focused on you.

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Why Team Days Are the Best Time for New Headshots

Team days are all about bringing people together—catching up, collaborating, and maybe even celebrating a big win. But while you're all in the same place, have you ever considered using the opportunity to refresh your team's headshots?

Most businesses put off updating headshots because it's tricky to coordinate schedules. People are in and out of the office, working remotely, or simply too busy. A team day solves that problem.

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Headshots, Location Shoot, Photography Justine Desmond Headshots, Location Shoot, Photography Justine Desmond

Headshots on location, best practice.

Today, we are going to delve into the art of creating a consistent set of images. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, the tips and tricks shared here will surely help you level up your game. Read on to find out how I delivered a consistent set of images to This Way Up Design in Marylebone, London

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