Written by Menswear Style in Business on the 10th June 2024

High fashion photography is a specialised photography genre that focuses on capturing fashion trends and styles in a visually compelling manner. It entails much more than just taking pictures of clothing; it also involves creating images that evoke emotion, tell a story, and showcase the artistic vision of the photographer and the designer. This is typically achieved through highly detailed and eye-catching clothing, hair, makeup, and other elements, along with the models posing in unconventional ways. For photographers, breaking into the world of high fashion can be both a thrill and a difficult new challenge. Besides technical photography skills, high fashion photography also requires careful planning about shoot locations, instructions for models, and specialty gear to use. If you’re embarking on your inaugural high fashion gig, consider these planning strategies to ensure a seamless and successful production:

1) Fully Understand the Client's Vision 

Before anything else, make sure you understand your client’s ethos and aspirations. Consider doing thorough research into the client's brand identity, aesthetic preferences, and target audience to glean valuable insights on what they want to achieve through the high fashion shoot. It’s also a good idea to communicate with the client and seek clarity on their expectations, desired themes, and overarching objectives for the session. Aligning your creative vision with the client's will help you lay the groundwork for a collaborative and harmonious partnership.

2) Scout for the Best Shoot Location 

For a high fashion shoot, the backdrop can sometimes be just as important as the clothing. That said, explore multiple potential locations that resonate with the desired aesthetic and narrative of the shoot. Choose between urban landscapes, picturesque natural settings, or other shoot venues with a unique ambience and visual appeal that complements the clothing that you’ll be photographing. You can also book a photo studio for a controlled environment that’s ideal for achieving specific lighting effects and creative concepts. If you’re headed to the City of Angels, book a photo studio Los Angeles fashion professionals trust with their projects. As you’re scouting for the perfect location, pay close attention to logistical factors such as lighting conditions, accessibility, and permits. This way, you can ensure seamless execution on the day of the shoot. 

3) Cast the Right Models 

In high fashion photography, models serve as the canvas upon which your creative vision comes to life. Casting the right models may be part of your preparation as a photographer. Collaborate with reputable modelling agencies or conduct independent searches to discover individuals whose unique features and distinctive styles align with the shoot's narrative. You can host casting calls or arrange model tests to assess compatibility and ensure that each chosen model embodies the essence of the envisioned concept.

4) Take On a Collaborative Attitude with the Rest of the Creative Team 

Behind every successful high fashion shoot is a cohesive and proficient creative team. You’ll likely be in the company of seasoned professionals, including stylists, hair stylists, and makeup artists. When you’ve met the other members of the creative team, do pre-shoot consultations to facilitate an exchange of ideas and insights. This ensures that each contributor is aligned in their approach towards the overarching vision for the project. Be sure to take on a collaborative attitude with everyone else in the team, and observe open communication and mutual respect. 

5) Create a Detailed Shot List 

Another planning tip for your first high fashion photography gig is to create a meticulously crafted shot list. Apart from enhancing efficiency during the shoot, a detailed shot list also serves as a reference point during post-production and editing. Devote ample time to crafting a comprehensive list that encompasses various poses, angles, and compositions tailored to each ensemble. Remember to incorporate the client's input and preferences, all while striking a balance between artistic expression and commercial viability.

6) Do Technical Preparations 

Along with other preparations for the shoot, make sure your photography equipment is also ready. Conduct thorough checks and adjustments to ensure your camera, lenses, and other gear are at optimal performance. If you’re using a fairly new camera, familiarise yourself with its settings and features. You can also explore various creative techniques that can enhance the visual impact of your photographs before the day of the shoot. In addition, pack backup equipment and essential supplies to mitigate the impact of unforeseen technical challenges, thus safeguarding the integrity of your shoot. 

7) Keep Your Light Setup Simple and Conduct Test Shoots 

In high fashion photography, simplicity often yields the most striking results—particularly when it comes to lighting. That said, try a minimalist approach to your light setup. Prioritise clean lines and subtle nuances that accentuate the subject's features. Whether harnessing natural light or employing minimal artificial sources, conduct thorough light tests before the shoot to refine your setup and achieve optimal results. If you test and refine your lighting arrangements in advance, you’ll be able to mitigate the risk of technical challenges and ensure seamless execution on the day of the shoot.

Your first high fashion photography gig may open a lot of doors for you in your photography career. Start on the right note, and you’ll be able to lay the groundwork for a successful and memorable production that will lead to similarly exciting gigs in the future.

Fully Understand the Client's Vision, Scout for the Best Shoot Location, Cast the Right Models, and Take On a Collaborative Attitude with the Rest of the Creative Team.