photographic knowledge to prepare yourself for all the demands of lighting,
posing, etc. You’ll need to become knowledgeable about makeup, hair, and
clothing styles, plus you’ll have to learn to work with and instruct people. All
this knowledge needs to be gained before starting out as a fashion photogra-
pher. If you start shooting as a fashion photographer before you have gained
the expertise needed, you can easily blow an assignment and establish a poor
reputation.
Myrecommendationforgettingstartedisthatyoubeginasaportraitpho-
tographer,whereyoupracticeyour skillsinacontrolledlightingenvironment
and learn to develop a rapport with people. In fact, the images of many fine
portraitphotographerscrossoverintowhatisreallymoreofafashionorcom-
mercial style, because their clients want “designer portraits”—portraits that
are creative and unique to the individual.
Using lighting, composition, and design, each photographer—whether
portrait or fashion—will create their own style. The portrait specialist, how-
ever, can use the same style, or combination of styles, for many sessions—or
even for years. This can be a great asset when you are getting started, since it
allows you to become comfortable with the photography process and work-
ing with your subjects without the constant pressure to produce a totally
unique image every time.I-7.Models have different looks, styles,
and personalities. Learning how to high-
light what makes a model unique is an
important skill.