How can I get started in fashion photography?

Fashion is everywhere, and each new person you meet could inspire an idea for a photoshoot. You simply have to be prepared and tap into your creativity. Of course this is easier said than done, so we have gathered some tips to kickstart your fashion photography journey.

Do your research

Mastery doesn’t come naturally. Research is an important part of fashion photography. Each creative decision contributes to the final outcome, so do your research on all aspects involved – the main message, the suitable locations and shooting times, the most appropriate gear, the color theory reflected by the outfit and the overall image. Take the time to find inspiration or go as far as collecting advice. It sounds tedious but this kind of research will allow your final shoot to go smoothly and flow seamlessly. It always helps to be prepared and intentional.

Create a mood and a story

Take your research gatherings and translate them into a mood board or even a shot list. Having a visual reference can help you finalize your ideas, decide on colors, and be reminded of your goals. You can also write down short and specific adjectives of the feelings or aura you’d like to capture. Having a mood board or a shot list can also contribute to your decisiveness – you can have a direct view of where and how to shoot. We usually say that fashion photography is about the narrative you are relaying, so remember to trust your personal aesthetic and the story it shapes. Keep the emphasis on the products, their function, and their value to a person’s life. Fashion photography allows a lot of space for creativity. It doesn’t have to make sense for everyone, it just has to be unique and sincere.

Constantly have a fit check

Needless to say, the outfits are important – they’re a fashion fundamental! Upon planning, you would have already formed a clear idea of what clothes, accessories and makeup looks you require. Once you move onto shooting, the focus shifts to keeping the items presentable and making the most out of them. Make the garments move, let them flow as naturally or as dramatically as you please. You are photographing them to capture their quality and at times practicality, so keep this mind as you guide your models. Your extensive planning will cease to matter if your primary subjects are not styled or presented properly.

Prioritize comfort and communication

In fashion photography everything has to be well thought out, including the models. Though the items are the main focus, the models are representative of the audience you aim to reach and the narrative you hope to portray. It’s definitely not an easy task. Being in the spotlight, putting a face to the narrative, and carrying the products well can easily make one feel vulnerable. This heightens the importance of making your models feel comfortable and communicating with them throughout the process.

Friendly yet polite and professional communication can help models deliver their best and in turn let you accomplish your desired outcome. Each person is different so you might have to adjust your communication style accordingly. Break the ice, establish rapport, take candid shots, and create an overall harmonious atmosphere. As for the posing itself, don’t hesitate to spend time warming up. Start with basic poses and gradually build up towards action shots if necessary. Additional elements that can help are playing music that matches the shoot’s vibe or incorporating props for more pose ideas.

Practice and persevere

Practice makes perfect – it’s a cliché for a reason. Your set-up doesn’t have to be grand. You can start by inviting your friends for a shoot, taking your camera to the streets or even trying self-portraiture. Start with basic gear, find a source of light (the sun is there for free!), locate a backdrop or use simple materials like a wall or a sheet. Fashion is everywhere, and the possibilities are endless! Exert effort and spend time on honing your skills in styling, your preferences in lighting, and so on. Photography is an art where you learn by doing, so do. Equip yourself with perseverance while you’re at it, and see yourself make progress.

Experiment

Once you’ve built some experience of fashion photography, especially shooting on film, you can start to experiment. All creative pursuits take time and courage to master. Study lighting techniques, visit new locations, use unusual film stocks or cameras, apply unique compositions, combine flamboyant colors, shoot from different angles, and the list goes on. There is so much to explore!