What first attracted you to fashion photography?
During my art lessons at school, I always used to enjoy drawing the human form and, later on, I would spend hours taking photos of people around me, especially my friends.
I started exploring fashion photography because I have always been attracted to beautiful clothes and to the idea of changing looks using different make-up and hairstyles. Combining the two passions – photography and fashion – was the best of both worlds.
What are the main elements that make fashion photography different from other genres?
In fashion photography the photographer works with models wearing or displaying clothing and fashion accessories. The purpose is usually commercial and the final photographs must represent the model and the fashion items in the best possible way. The main aim is to produce an appealing image that sells.
Fashion photography also incorporates elements from other genres. For instance, a fashion photograph can be enhanced with a stunning natural landscape in the background or an urban setting. In this case, a shoot would be more complicated and the photographer needs to attain a good photographic composition.
It is hard both for the team and I to get inspired if there is no story behind a fashion shoot
Is fashion photography necessarily about beauty?
In my opinion fashion photography is all about clothes and beauty. Although both the photographer and the viewer may interpret beauty in a subjective manner, a fashion photograph should have good taste and most of all be aesthetically pleasing.
How important is it to tell a story through a fashion shoot?
Usually it is hard both for the team and I to get inspired if there is no story behind a fashion shoot, especially when a set of photographs are commissioned. Telling a story in a fashion editorial gives viewers something they can relate to and therefore helps create a story within the image. The viewer feels involved in the story and consequently interested in the photograph. More importantly, it is all about having a consistent theme.
Do you prefer to shoot in a studio or outdoors?
I prefer shooting outdoors because of the variety of backgrounds and the freedom of space and especially because natural light can give more mood and expression to a photo.
How important is it to work as a team on a fashion shoot?
It is essential to work as a team before and during a shoot. For me, every member of the team is key to ensure positive results. A fashion shoot is a collaborative effort and everyone, from the model to the make-up artist, hairstylist and wardrobe stylists should be involved and should communicate well with each other.
During a shoot I’m normally focused on having the model pose in the right way and look at her expressions to catch the right shot, so it’s difficult to keep an eye on the rest of the elements, such as creases on the clothes. Therefore it is important that the team is concentrated on their job even during the actual shoot.
When doing a fashion shoot, do you stick to shooting or do you also give your suggestions regarding choice of models and poses?
When I’m commissioned for a fashion shoot, the first thing I ask is who the model is and I usually have a look at her portfolio prior to the shoot so I get to know her looks.
If the model hasn’t been chosen yet, I normally like to be involved in choosing an appropriate model for the shoot. If the shoot is not organised by myself and therefore logistically put together by someone else, I follow the direction of the organiser. That said, if the idea involves something that I know will not look good in the shot, I always speak up and share my ideas on how to improve. Equally, I always appreciate feedback on my work. I think this is the best and most successful way to work professionally.
How do you engage models and make them more comfortable during a shoot?
Communication and direction are very important. I generally make the models feel at ease by explaining the idea behind the image I want to portray and direct them with poses and expressions. I also give comments and feedback throughout the whole shoot and every now and then show the models a couple of good shots to encourage them.
Which fashion photographers inspires you?
I love the iconic shots of Mario Testino and Steven Meisel. However I also get inspired by many shots taken by different photographers around the world.
What would your dream assignment be?
Shooting a top model wearing an evening gown by an international designer on the staircase of Palais Garnier in Paris.