Fashion photography is typically seen in popular magazines including Vanity Fair and Zoo.
Its function is to show off the fashion houses’ latest styles using attractive models.
Fashion photography is usually shot on location with a theme in mind. Themes can include cat walk, night life or urban. The models used typically have looks that accentuate the type of person the fashion wear is aimed at. For example Gap Clothing is aimed at 18 – 25 year olds whereas Ted Baker and FCUK are aimed at 18 – 30 year olds.
Fashion photography began in the Victorian era with Baron De Meyer being noted for his clever use of soft focus and backlighting.
Shoots are usually staged with poses appearing natural in their location. Fashion photography often reflects the economic conditions at the time with wartime time rationing or punk fashion in the 1980s.
Fashion photography is very popular with novice photographers because of its celebrity potential and the earnings that can be made if successful.
Editors of magazines frequently receive portfolios from aspiring photographers. It is understood that the portfolio should comprise images that require minimum computer retouching. There is an expectation that the portfolio should bring out the photographer’s personality.
Showing off your work requires a portfolio and a place where it can be seen. You should research the internet for current outlets for your work to be shown – find places where editors visit. Be careful to check the legitimacy of companies that charge to show your work.