Lesley Burdett Photography

Lesley Burdett is a Fujifilm-featured portrait photographer based near Burgess Hill who unapologetically centres women and the queer community in her work. Calling herself a photography witch, Lesley brings a confident, creative energy to every session — she’s not interested in cookie-cutter images, only in making portraits that feel true to you. Why choose Lesley? If you want a portrait experience that prioritises authenticity, safety and bold personal expression, she’s a specialist you can trust. With 15+ years behind the camera, Lesley knows how to put people at ease, coax natural moments, and create striking, editorial-quality images in a relaxed studio atmosphere. Her work leans into minimal lighting and thoughtful composition to produce portraits that are both intimate and dramatic — images that stand out and tell a story. What makes her approach special is the combination of technical skill and radical empathy. Lesley’s sessions are intentionally judgement-free: the studio is a safe space where clients are listened to, guided, and encouraged to explore identity and presence. Whether you’re looking for an honest studio portrait, a distinctive headshot, or a professional portrait with personality, she tailors the session to your comfort and vision. Her direction is gentle but decisive — she’ll suggest poses and looks, share images as she shoots, and collaborate with you so the final set truly reflects who you are. How she works: sessions are conversational and client-led, with attention to music, atmosphere and consent. Lesley prioritises clear communication before and during the shoot to make sure boundaries and creative aims are respected. She often uses minimal lighting setups to craft mood and depth, focusing on expression, posture and small details that make a portrait feel alive. Lesley’s passion is simple: shooting the shit she loves to photograph. If you want portraits that are unapologetically you — thoughtful, polished and with personality — Lesley Burdett’s Burgess Hill studio is a place to start. Book a session and let her work her magic to create portraits that feel honest, powerful and unmistakably yours.