FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER
A fashion photographer is responsible for photographing apparel, accessories, and fashion models. The goal of the fashion photographer is to highlight the apparel or accessories when photographing a model or a mannequin. Fashion photographers may work for fashion publications or fashion journals.
If you wish to pursue a career in fashion photography, you will need a strong work ethic, a passion for photography, and enjoy the fashion realm. A fashion photographer is responsible for photographing apparel, accessories, and fashion models. The goal of the fashion photographer is to highlight the apparel or accessories when photographing a model or a mannequin. Fashion photographers may work for fashion publications or fashion journals. Furthermore, fashion photographers may work as freelance fashion photographers or for magazines. Additionally, a fashion photographer may be employed by a designer, fashion house, fashion publication, advertising agencies, or beauty publication.
Fashion photographers are responsible for overseeing the entire fashion photography production, from makeup, hair styling, apparel, and lighting. The role of a fashion photographer is to ensure the final photograph of the product meets the satisfaction of the publication or client. Fashion photographers have an exemplary eye for design, while understanding how to perfectly highlight the perfect features within a photographic scene.
Overseeing photography assistants and fashion stylists are also a part of a fashion photographer’s job responsibilities. Fashion photographers collaborate with hair stylists, fashion stylists, makeup artists, and fashion designers. It is crucial that fashion photographers have strong interpersonal skills when communicating with various team members on a photo shoot or assignment. The work of a fashion photographer can be strenuous and grueling, as they typically spend hours on their feet shooting photographs. Furthermore, a fashion photographer may sit in front of a computer for extended periods of time, editing or touching-up photographs. Depending on the deadlines for a publication or assignment, a fashion photographer may work over-time and throughout the holiday season.
In order to obtain a position within the fashion photography field, it is imperative that a fashion photographer has a strong portfolio, exemplary photography skills, and strong attention to fashion trends and details. Additionally, a fashion photographer must understand lighting techniques, composition, camera equipment, visual techniques, and business skills. Establishing lighting moods or schemes, displaying the proper apparel and accessories, and choosing the model for the photo shoot may be a part of a fashion photographer’s responsibilities. It is imperative that a fashion photographer translates a client’s artistic vision, while ensuring the artistic vision comes to fruition in the final photograph. A fashion photographer will understand how to properly utilize camera equipment, lighting, and light metering equipment to ensure a successful photo shoot. Furthermore, a fashion photographer may choose the final images that will be submitted to a client for approval. Editing and touch-up work will also be done prior to the submission of the fashion photographs. Once the photographs are presented to a client, the client may choose to publish them within their fashion publication or advertising campaign.
As a fashion photographer, it is necessary that you understand emerging fashion trends, photographic trends, and the fashion realm. As a fashion photographer, you may be faced with many deadlines and a hectic work schedule; therefore, it is imperative that you can think creatively and remain calm under pressure. It is the responsibility of the fashion photographer to make sure that the fashion shoot is going smoothly, while interacting with models or stylists.