They are all around us. On posters, on television, in magazines. Ultra-thin models strutting along the runways of London, New York and Milan wearing the latest items from today's designers. Their petite figures and constant pouting are all around us. But who captures these images that completely surround us and tell us how to look? These images are the products of years of experience and study, manipulating the light and color while considering the composition to produce the most attractive images possible to display new fashion. They are the products of the fashion photographer.
Names like Michael Muller and Patrick Demarchelier are as famous as super models in the world of fashion. They command a special brand of power in being the arbiters of visual taste and are celebrated accordingly.
The glamorous lifestyle may be the outsider's perception of fashion photography, but reaching success is a truly testing process. This profession is ruthless, and without the focus of strength to persist, the competition will throw you to the side. With every famous photographer there are thousands of others earning nothing from their trade.
To get started in this competitive field you must obsessively study your craft. You can never stop learning, so keep absorbing everything you find, especially in fashion magazines. There are fantastic resources on the internet. You can find books on the subject at Amazon.com. The basic equipment you will need to start out is a good camera, some standard lighting equipment and a tripod. On any shoot, make sure you have extra film so you don't have to interrupt your flow. Research the different types of cameras and the unique looks they produce, as your choice of camera will affect the look of your work.
Your portfolio is your most important asset when you are establishing yourself in the business. It represents what you can do, so spend time making sure it represents you perfectly. Fashion editors are going to want to see examples of your work before they hire you so spend time on that portfolio. It should have at least 20 photos to give sufficient space to show the different styles you can do. 4x5" format is recommended, but 8x10" will do if you're in a rush. Any publications featuring your work can be part of your portfolio too. Make sure to vary the style in your photographs, capturing figures from different perspectives.
Fashion is about accessories too so a close-up partial body shot can make a great photo- say an image of a watch on a young woman's wrist. When you apply for a job be aware that you may have to leave your portfolio there for a couple of weeks. To deal with this you should make copies of your portfolio so that you can apply for more than one job at the same time.
The internet is becoming a useful portal to display your work. Set up your own website with your portfolio online, and submit your photographs to online competitions. This will help get your work seen and a well-presented web page can bring in a lot of clients.
Fashion editors are looking for character in your photographs. Develop your craft so you have the technical ability to express yourself in your work. There are a lot of great resources online to show you the basics of fashion photography. If this is your passion, don't give up on it. Success is possible, but you will have to work hard to earn it.
About the Author:
Click Here To Check Out The Bruce Smith Fashion Photography Courses Need To Know How To Take Digital Photos Like A Pro? Download This Free Digital Photography Pdf For Newbies
No comments:
Post a Comment
Your Comment Here