Friday, January 15, 2016

What Skills Does You Need As A Clothing Photographer?

By Marie Barnes


To photograph a garment is not the same as photographing other things such as landscapes or still objects. To be a clothing photographer, a particular set of skills is needed, including an understanding of how the garment moves as well as the structure of certain pieces. The end result should be able to successfully sell the item to the viewer.

A photographer of this kind may actually be working with the designers of the garments in question to create an image. In such cases, it's very important to have a firm understanding of what the designer envisions for the outcome of any images including their designs. It is key to bear in mind at all times the designer's aesthetic and brand image.

First of all, a photographer must establish what type of clothing is being photographed. A red carpet gown, for example, will be photographed very differently to active wear. This is in terms of the setting, the model used, the expressions, the poses and many other aspects.

Apparel can be shot in studio or on location, meaning at an existing place rather than a set up. A studio shoot gives the photographer a little more control when it comes to lighting. Lighting is a major component of getting the right shot.

Shooting on location, however, is very good for shots that require ambiance or atmosphere. This is relevant to apparel that needs the additional selling point. For example, swimwear becomes even more attractive when the model is positioned in a beach or pool setting, or something tropical to convey the concept of vacation and relaxation. Sporting apparel sells better when photographed in motion or in action.

That being said, not everything must be paired with an environment that matches its purpose. A good campaign will find clever and witty ways to stand out from the crowd by using juxtaposition. A particular garment could be depicted in a setting that is its polar opposite in order to make a statement.

An individual who photographs clothing may not necessarily be doing it in the style of a photo shoot. A lot of photographers are engaged in runway photography, which is key during the numerous fashion weeks held globally throughout the year. Taking pictures from the 'pit' at the front of the runway, photographers capture endless frames of the same outfit on a model, in order to ensure they get the perfect shot. This would include the way the garment moves, as well as the expression of the model and the pose, which should be most flattering to the outfit itself.

Runway photography is incredibly important. It requires a special understanding of angles, movement and especially timing, as capturing the right moment on the runway is the first point of sale and attention for media and consumers alike. With the right set of skills, anyone taking picture can make an outfit look far more impressive than it actually might be. Having the right photography can be a determining factor in whether a designer is successful on the runway or not.




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