06 - Fashion Photography
Photo by Helmut Newton
Few things are as evocative, powerful, and timeless as fashion photography.
Of course, as an aspiring fashion photographer myself, I’m a bit biased.
Still though, it’s hard to deny the artistic quality of the medium.
Photographers like Helmut Newton, Annie Leibovitz, and Peter Lindbergh, capturing raw moods, visceral moments, and in some cases, creating outright worlds that feel tangible and real.
Everything from the glossy, vivid editorials, to the cinematic shots with natural lighting and muted colors, to the high contrast black and white street shots that are a staple of classic New York fashion photography - all of it dazzles the eye.
The respect I have for those who possess an innate ability to capture candid, human moments and expressions (it’s harder than it looks), as well as those who have a specific vision in mind, and work tirelessly to bring that image to life - can’t be put into words. It’s a gift.
Getting the right model, the right outfit, the right hair and makeup, the right location, and the right poses - takes a special eye and attention to detail.
Candid shots only work when all of the aforementioned factors are considered and taken care of accordingly.
The photos tell a story, and provide visual representation of feelings like curiosity, passion, anger, sadness, and jovial playfulness, just to name a few.
The variety is astounding. The photos can be raw and provocative, or safe and classy, and both extremes are necessary at different times. They balance each other out.
For every photo of a woman in a peacoat and beret in the middle of Central Park, is a nude woman in stockings, exuding the power of sexuality and feminine energy.
For every photo of a man emitting strength in a tailored suit, is a shirtless, scrawny man displaying vulnerability and challenging what it means to be “masculine.”
There are ad campaigns that generate outrage. Photos that challenge the status quo and how we view gender, sexual orientation, race, and various body types. Shoots that get people talking about current events. Bold images that push the envelope and take the industry, and our culture at large, in a more progressive direction.
No other type of photography is as creative, versatile, or timeless. No other type of photography gets people to react emotionally in the way fashion photography can. It’s got attitude. It’s got grace. It’s got your attention.
It’s the pinnacle of visual artistry, and the perfect showcase for what can be achieved with a camera.