Written by Menswear Style in Tips & Advice on the 4th July 2024

Men are spending more on clothes and taking more care over their appearances than at any point in the past. Yet there’s still a gap between how well the average guy captures his latest look on camera, and what women can achieve with a smartphone and a little bit of knowhow. To redress the balance, here are some fashion photography tips that will give blokes a better chance of showcasing their style, whether that’s in a full-blown ad campaign or just for fun on social media.

Daylight vs. Artificial Lighting 

Lighting can make or break a fashion photo. And since Brits spent £63.7 billion on apparel last year, anyone who wants to tap into this market needs to showcase their products properly. And even if you just aspire to be an influencer, you need to bend light to your will, rather than letting it run rings around you. Here are some pointers:

Daylight Benefits 

- Soft, natural light enhances skin tones. 

- Early morning or late afternoon ("golden hour") provides warm hues. 

- Overcast days give even, diffused lighting. 

Artificial Light Tips 

- Use softboxes to mimic natural light without harsh shadows. 

- Ring lights offer consistent illumination and highlight facial features evenly. 

- Play with colored gels to add mood and complement outfit themes. 

For striking men's fashion photos: 

1. Experiment with both types of lighting for varied effects. 

2. Control the intensity using reflectors or diffusers in daylight settings. 

3. Balance ambient and artificial sources to maintain realism while adding drama. 

So, why choose one over the other? Well, natural light suits casual outdoor shots, while controlled artificial setups excel in studio environments, allowing creative freedom for dramatic looks. If you know what you’re aiming for with your shoot, this decision should be simple.

Choosing Dynamic Backdrops to Complement Attire 

The right backdrop elevates the entire shot, while the wrong one will leave it looking odd, ill thought-out, or plain unprofessional. Consider the following options: 

Urban Environments 

- Cityscapes offer a modern, edgy vibe. 

- Graffiti walls provide vibrant contrast and texture. 

- Architectural lines create strong, dynamic compositions. 

Natural Settings 

- Parks and forests give a serene, earthy feel. 

- Beaches provide an open, airy aesthetic perfect for casual looks. 

- Fields and rural landscapes work well for rugged or rustic outfits. 

To enhance men's fashion photography: 

1. Match backdrops to the clothing style; urban settings suit contemporary looks while nature fits relaxed attire. 

2. Consider color contrasts; neutral outfits pop against colorful graffiti or lush greenery. 

3. Use shallow depth of field (bokeh) to blur backgrounds slightly, focusing attention on the model. 

Bear in mind that you can take charge of your backdrop, rather than relying on what’s there for you already. For instance, with printable banner templates it’s a breeze to come up with backdrops that are tailored to the vibe and narrative you’re intending to establish with the finished shots. It’s even straightforward to make tweaks later on using editing tools, so nothing is set in stone if you don’t mind spending a little time making tweaks.

Angles and Poses that Enhance Men’s Silhouettes 

Great angles can redefine a man's silhouette, adding power and style to the shot. In fact, studies show that posture is particularly pertinent in this context, and it’s an aspect that photographers can manage as needed. Here’s what you need to know: 

Optimal Angles 

- Low angles emphasize height and dominance. 

- Slightly higher angles can slim down broader figures. 

- Profile shots highlight strong jawlines and sharp features. 

Effective Poses 

- Hands in pockets or adjusting a cufflink adds casual sophistication. 

- Leaning against walls or sitting casually gives a relaxed, approachable look. 

- Crossing arms or standing with one leg slightly forward portrays confidence. 

To bring out the best: 

1. Experiment with varied heights to find the most flattering perspectives for each model. 

2. Guide poses subtly, ensuring they appear natural yet deliberate. 

3. Use continuous shooting mode to capture spontaneous moments within posed shots. 

The reason to focus on this is that the right angle and pose make men’s outfits stand out by highlighting structure, fit, and personality. This marks out the difference between ordinary looks and iconic styles.

Incorporating Accessories 

Well-chosen accessories can transform an outfit, adding layers of style and personality. Including them in men’s fashion photography in a flattering and deliberate way will work a charm. Here’s what you have to keep in mind: 

Key Accessories 

- Watches signal sophistication and precision. 

- Sunglasses add mystery and edge. 

- Ties, bow ties, or pocket squares bring pops of color. 

Detail Shot Tips 

- Use macro lenses to capture textures like leather or fabric weaves. 

- Focus on one accessory at a time for impactful storytelling. 

- Ensure lighting highlights the accessory without casting harsh shadows. 

To maximize impact: 

1. Isolate accessories in the frame to draw viewers' eyes directly to them. 

2. Complement outfit themes by choosing accessories that enhance rather than overpower the overall look. 

3. Capture both wide shots with full outfits and close-ups emphasizing key details. 

But why should you bother with all this? Basically, accessory-focused photos add depth to fashion photography portfolios, showcasing your attention to detail while accentuating the nuances of your personal style. And those are things we could all do with more of.

Wrapping Up 

Once lighting is locked down, backdrops are carefully considered, angles and poses are perfected, and accessories are given center stage, snapping stylish men’s outfits will be a walk in the park. And after your first session, it will be a stroll you can take time and again without much trouble.

Daylight vs. Artificial Lighting, Choosing Dynamic Backdrops to Complement Attire, Angles and Poses that Enhance Men’s Silhouettes, and Incorporating Accessories.