How to Take a Fashion Portrait
A fashion portrait should convey emotion and follow a story line. Delightfully, besides these two rules, it doesn’t have to make sense.
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Capture your subject in the best light with these photography tips that cover everything from nature and still-life photography to fashion photography.
You Will Need
- A camera
- An 80mm lens
- A model
- Fashion accoutrements
- And a storyline or concept
- Props (optional) (optional) (optional)
- Makeup (optional) (optional) (optional)
- Clothing (optional) (optional) (optional)
- An assistant (optional) (optional) (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Select your model
Select a model that is willing to pose for you.
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Try to look for models with interesting or unique facial characteristics, for example, large eyes.
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Step 2
Brief your model
Brief your model on the concept and storyline -- the more the model understands your idea, the better.
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Step 3
Style your model
Style and prop your model making sure their hair, makeup, clothing and accessories are exactly what you want; every detail helps illustrate your vision.
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Have an assistant help the model while you get your equipment ready.
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Step 4
Set up lighting
While the model is prepping, set up any artificial lights that you may be using.
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Even, soft light is the most flattering and desirable when shooting fashion photography.
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Step 5
Eliminate shadows
Try eliminating any unwanted shadows on the model unless it is part of your stylistic expression and concept.
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Step 6
Grab your camera
Grab your camera with a minimum of an 80mm lens attached.
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Step 7
Choose your film and settings
Select your film, aperture and shutter speed that is appropriate for your shooting conditions.
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Step 8
Compose the shot
Compose your shot and meter on your subject.
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Step 9
Focus on your subject
Focus on the desired object or on a captivating part of the subject like the eyes or lips.
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Step 10
Reiterate the scenario
Reiterate the scenario and start snapping as your model lets the storyline and concept unfold.
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Remember to tell your model when you see something you like or dislike. The more feedback you provide them, the better they will interpret your outline.
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Step 11
Shoot away
Shoot as much as you can.
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Step 12
Thank your model
Thank your model, and go check out the results.
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Legendary fashion photographer Irving Penn is 90 years old and still contributing to Vogue.
