Fashion magazines are taking over and on billboards all over the world we can see models posing with the latest clothes and fashion. To become a great fashion photographer however, you need to have many things in mind. We asked community member luigiscuderi to share his top tips. Here’s Luigi’s Top 6 Fashion Tips.
1. A Sea Of Images
Immerse yourself in the world of images. Only by continuously looking at the work of other photographers, professional or not, you can get an eye for seeing images, a base for the development of your vision. I’m not talking about copying, I’m talking about contamination of ideas. Ideas origin from association, often it’s a free, non-conscious association.
2. Let Your Imagination Fly
Be certain you have an idea to develop, not just a collection of nice images. Think about a way to differentiate yourself, to tell something new; original. Think in advance what you’re going to record in your images; Imagine. Think of each frame you’re going to take and think as each frame is the only one. Ask yourself: What does the image tell? What do I want the viewer to feel?
3. Plan Your Shooting Carefully
A good photo series is the result of much time spent in planning. Once you have in mind an idea (if you have not there’s no need to read further) choose your model(s), the team you need, the location, the lights you’re going to use, the dresses and accessories. Go and visit the location, if you can’t visit, provide to get the best photos you can of the place. Think about what is the right time to be there and what should be the right light. Think about how much space you’ll have, if there are other people you’ll have to deal with, etc.
4. Sharing Is Caring - And Key To Success
Share with your team the ideas you have in mind, the kind of images you’re going to take, the mood you’re expecting to express. The more they know the more they can help you get the result. I have taken the habit to prepare a mood sheet, with some images that can be of inspiration for everyone. Sometimes this document is prepared together with a stylist, if present.
5. Check Lists
The day before the shooting check every single component of your equipment, provide that you have plenty of fully charged batteries, for flashguns, triggers, cameras, etc. Collect all the things you are going to use and those you might find helpful in the photo session. If you forget to do this you might vanish months of planning!
6. Experience, Experience And More Experience
Be available to work with non-paid projects when asked by other people or on your initiative. I have started working in new ways, experimenting with TFCD projects. Sometimes I get negative responses, and I respect them, but there’s always a great model, or a great MUA willing to try something new. Of course you have to have an idea to work further on together. There are sites that facilitate the gathering of teams, and I’ve tried many of them. I prefer those where the discussion is at an international level. I’ve made myself available to experience projects with foreign models coming to Rome (where I live) and it’s always been a great opportunity to experience different point of views and working habits.
For more beautiful photos taken by Luigi, visit his viewbug profile.
