Rebranding with Intention: Inside the David Astburys Team Shoot
When David Astburys - a leading North London estate agency - got in touch to refresh their team portraits, it wasn’t just about updating a few headshots. They’re currently in the midst of a wider rebrand and they knew that the visual side of their business needed to align with where they’re heading: elevated, polished and reflective of the clients they serve.
With multiple national awards under their belt - including Most Trusted Agent in the UK and Estate Agency of the Year at the Kerfuffle Conference - the team understood that their brand imagery needed to work harder. Their current visuals no longer felt representative of the high level of service they’re known for.
Why Your Brand Imagery Matters
Let’s be honest - most people can spot a rushed headshot a mile off. And when you’re working in a highly competitive, client-facing industry like real estate, your images speak before you do.
This shoot wasn’t just about looking professional - it was about creating imagery that matched the experience clients can expect when they walk through David Astburys' doors: thoughtful, high-end, personal.
I worked with the incredible Studio Porter, who led the shot list and moodboard development, as well as on-the-day styling and production. And I can’t stress this enough - this is the part businesses often overlook. Having this level of prep and intention behind a shoot is what takes it from flat and forgettable to polished and purposeful. The difference is huge - not just visually, but strategically.
The Shoot Breakdown
The day was set at a stunning, design-led property sourced via Styled Home Studios - think high ceilings, a state-of-the-art kitchen, parquet floors and marble worktops. It provided the perfect backdrop to reflect the calibre of homes the David Astburys team represents.
We started with professional portraits of the company’s Partners, followed by each department and wider team members. These weren’t your average grey-background shots - each portrait was shaped by light, space and personality.
From there, we moved into lifestyle content:
Morning meetings around the kitchen island (yes to fresh flowers, coffee, croissants and laptops)
Agents handing over keys to clients
Team discussions and relaxed moments
Even a few guest appearances from the agency's much-loved office dog, Ovie!
Why This Matters
It’s one thing to have a great team. It’s another to show that team in a way that feels authentic, aspirational and aligned with your brand. When businesses like David Astburys invest in thoughtful, well-produced imagery, they’re not just improving their website - they’re building trust before the first email is even sent.
Images from a shoot like this aren’t throwaway assets. They’re content you can use across your website, LinkedIn profiles, recruitment materials, press features, proposals - even office signage. Because when your team is the face of your business, your visuals need to reflect the level you’re operating at.
