The success behind the portfolio of many models lies in the hands of a fashion photographer. This genre of photography is dedicated to showing fashion apparel and accessories in a way that enhances them. Over a period of time, fashion photography has developed its own aesthetic with beauty of clothes, models, and accessories, enhanced by the use of exotic locations, storylines and stylized photographic techniques.
Styles
This genre can be divided into 3 main styles; editorial, catalog and high fashion. A fourth style that is slowly gaining prominence is called street fashion photography. While catalog and street styles are easily distinguishable, it is quite difficult to distinguish between editorial and high fashion because they share a similar style.
1. Editorial fashion photography
Most fashion magazines feature this style of photography. Here, styling takes an obvious forefront. In most cases, there is a story running through the shoot; the models are often photographed through the course of the day, morning wardrobe, mid-day wardrobe and finally the evening attire. These shoots depict a theme and the models need to enact the role they are given and emote to convey their story. The whole image is shot so as to create a powerful statement.
2. High Fashion
Big fashion brands and labels often advertise their products using this style of photography. The photographs generally feature supermodels, famous actors and actresses. The clothes and accessories featured are often styled in a way that is a complete departure from reality. The poses can be exaggerated and over-the-top. All elements of the model; the wardrobe, styling, hair/makeup, lighting and location work together to create a flawless image.
3. Catalog Photography
This style is used by companies that print to market their products to their consumers. This is basically an information image where the model is made to pose against a certain background and you see the clothes very clearly. Here, styling is hassle-free, background is normally white or gray and the photograph is in such a way that the details of the clothes are visible. Most of these photographs are shot in studios or another ideal location.
4. Street Fashion Photography
This style is all about people of the street. It’s about capturing the essence of what is fashionable amongst typical people, what they wear, how they perceive style and how they make a statement with their clothes. Photographers of this style would shoot fashionistas out and about on their daily chores, highlighting trends in the real world.