The Foley’s List Project: Photographing 350 Barristers
In 2019, Foley’s List commissioned us to create a consistent collection of portraits for approximately 350 barristers. The photographs needed to work together across the list’s website and marketing while showing each person’s individuality.
With demanding court schedules and limited availability, bringing everyone through our CBD studio wasn’t practical. We worked with the clerks to organise individual appointments over several months, using a dedicated photography space inside Owen Dixon Chambers.
Building a Studio Inside Owen Dixon Chambers
Rather than asking hundreds of barristers to travel to our studio, we created a fully equipped satellite studio inside Owen Dixon Chambers. This allowed us to deliver true studio quality while respecting the realities of court life.
The objective was absolute consistency. Foley’s List wanted a unified visual presence across its website and marketing platforms. When solicitors and corporate clients viewed profiles online, the experience needed to convey authority, cohesion and professionalism. Consistent portraits require more than good lighting. They are about presenting an entire organisation with clarity and confidence.
We installed a state of the art LED lighting system and locked the setup in place for the duration of the project. From the first portrait to the last, the visual standard remained identical. That consistency is what gives large chambers a strong and credible online presence.
Tethered capture allowed immediate review and precise adjustments. Each barrister could see their images on screen, select their preferred expression and leave knowing their professional image was handled with care.
Managing 350 Individual Sessions
Execution relied on close collaboration with the clerks. Structured 30 minute appointment blocks ran from 9 am to 12 noon and again from 3 pm to 6 pm, three days a week, over many months. The rhythm was deliberate. It respected court commitments while maintaining steady momentum.
Each session followed a refined system. Brief wardrobe guidance. Clear, confident direction. Efficient capture. Barristers understand presence and authority, but standing in front of a camera requires subtle coaching. My role was to help them look natural, composed and credible without stiffness.
The same approach continues to guide our work for chambers websites, LinkedIn profiles and media releases.
Why I Value Photographing Barristers
I genuinely enjoy photographing barristers. They are some of the most interesting and diverse professionals I meet. Behind the robes are individuals with varied backgrounds and compelling personal journeys. Some are analytical and understated. Others are dynamic and expressive. Many have moved through academia, commercial practice or public service before arriving at the Bar.
Capturing individuality while maintaining visual consistency is the craft. A barrister’s portrait needs to balance authority with approachability, strength with authenticity and precision with personality.
Leadership Evolution and Ongoing Relationships
Since that initial project, leadership at Foley’s List has evolved. Andrew Turner has taken over from John and has continued to build the list into an even stronger organisation. Andrew began his career in the mail room and worked his way through the ranks to the top. That progression reflects commitment, deep understanding and strong leadership.
Under Andrew’s stewardship, Foley’s List has continued to thrive. We still photograph Foley’s Barristers, readers and staff members today. What began as a large scale commission developed into a long term professional relationship.
Our work extends beyond Foley’s List. We also photograph members of Chapmans List, Greens List and Young’s List, along with individual barristers from other chambers across Victoria.
Headshots for Individual Barristers and Entire Lists
Whether you need to update your own portrait or coordinate photography for an entire list, we can plan the sessions around your requirements. Individual barristers can book at our Melbourne CBD studio, while larger projects can include a dedicated setup at your chambers.
For individual sessions, view our corporate headshot packages. If you’re organising photography for a list or chambers, explore our team headshot options and request a tailored quote.
Here I am with former pop sensation and Australian Idol judge turned barrister, Mark Holden – “Touchdown”!
FAQ's
Every two to three years is a good rule of thumb, or sooner if your appearance has changed, including hair, weight, or wardrobe. An outdated headshot can feel inauthentic and may subtly undermine trust before you’ve even had a conversation.
A headshot is one part of your professional presentation, alongside your experience, expertise and reputation. A clear, current portrait helps solicitors and clients recognise you and form an initial impression before meeting you. The aim is to look approachable and composed, with a photograph that represents you accurately.
The fundamentals are the same, but the emphasis is different. For barristers, we aim for a look of ‘legal confidence’: authoritative, composed and assured. Expression, posture and lighting should convey someone capable of handling a serious matter, without looking stiff or unnecessarily severe. Depending on where the portrait will be used, we can photograph you in a suit, robes, or both.
Most barristers wear a suit or a jabot for their headshot, and some choose to include their wig and regalia. The key is to look polished and professional, just as you would on the day of an important court appearance. Some like to add a subtle touch of personality, but it should always feel authentic, reflecting the real you while maintaining a confident and professional appearance.