Travel.Also, as a model and fashion photographer, you will be given the
opportunity totravel andexperience new environments—not as a tourist,but
as an integral part of the region. The fashion photographer will get a unique
impression of the location, because he will integrate the landscape and the
“feel” of the area in his fashion work.
Financial.Financially, this field can be very rewarding, but it may take
years to become known or to establish a distinctive style and a great reputa-
tion. Marketing your distinctive style and reputation will, however, create a
demand for your work, reward you with financial success, and elevate your
professional status.
Making a Positive Change.On a personal note, the aspect of this field
that satisfies me the most is the ability to instill confidence in a new model.
Many young models lack self-esteem. They are convinced that models who
are published are perfect and lacking any personal flaws. The driving force
for me to continue working with beginners is to see the expressions on their
faces as they view their photographs and see that they look like the estab-
lished models they see in print. The change in self-esteem and confidence
that appears as a portfolio progresses, and the praise of the parents about the
change in their daughter’s life, is, to me, an immeasurable reward. How do
you put a value on a positive change in someone’s life?
The Challenges of Model Photography.
Environmental Demands.Many people envision the life of a fashion pho-
tographer as one big round of parties in exotic locations, filled with beautiful
models and fascinating celebrities. It is true that many locations are exotic,
models generally are beautiful, and some celebrities actually are interesting.
However, the reality is that a fashion photographer’s life is one of very hard
work with extreme pressure to “be creative” while staying within budget.
When accepting a client, the photographer shoulders enormous responsi-
bility. There must be meticulous attention to detail, schedules must be main-
tained, and deadlines must be met. There are crews of assistants, makeup
artists, hair stylists, photo stylists, and other personnel for whom the pho-
tographer is ultimately responsible. Shots must be perfect; images must suit
the client’s needs.
Often, the photographer must produce excellent work under trying cir-
cumstances, working with ill-fitting garments, miscast models, and overzeal-
ouson-lookersorpaparazzi.Sometimes,thoseexoticlocalesmayworkagainst
the photographer, as well. Mosquitoes, sand-fleas, high winds, unexpected
rain, and heavy cloud cover do not add up to a pleasant photo shoot—much
less a glamorous adventure!
Technical Challenges.No matter how experienced you are as a photog-
rapher, there are always new techniques to learn—new equipment, new cap-
14 LIGHTING TECHNIQUES FOR PHOTOGRAPHING MODEL PORTFOLIOS
How do you put a value
on a positive change in
someone’s life?