5 Essential Fashion Photography Tips
from Lara Jade
Expert Tips +1
How to Find Inspiration
Lara loves using Pinterest as a tool for gathering inspiration and spotting upcoming trends. She recommends using it to track what designers are creating for the next season and to build mood boards that spark fresh, creative ideas for your shoots.
Understand the Editorial Side of the Industry
Editorial photography is about storytelling—creating a series of images that often appear in magazines, either in print or online. Unlike commercial work, where the goal is to meet a client’s specific needs, editorials allow for greater creative freedom. However, it’s still smart to keep potential clients in mind when creating editorials, as they can serve as powerful portfolio pieces that showcase your style and capabilities.
Develop a Versatile Skill Set
Successful fashion photographers are adaptable. You’ll shoot in various locations, deal with unpredictable lighting, and work with both still and moving subjects. To stand out, expand your technical skills, experiment with different shooting styles, and always be ready to adjust to new challenges on set.
More Gear Doesn’t Mean Better Work
It’s a common misconception that high-end gear guarantees better photos. In reality, some of the best photographers create incredible work with minimal equipment. Focus on mastering the tools you already have, experimenting with lighting techniques, and using creative problem-solving to elevate your work. Strong ideas and execution will always trump expensive gear.
Treat Every Day Like a 9-to-5
Even if you don’t have a client booked, use your time wisely. Market your work, reach out to potential clients, update your portfolio, and refine your skills. Lara advises treating every shoot—personal or professional—as if you’re creating work for a future client. This way, you’ll have relevant portfolio examples ready when an opportunity arises.
Take the Next Step with Portfolio Rêbels
Looking to gain hands-on experience and connect with other creatives? Join Portfolio Rêbels—a platform that brings together photographers, models, and stylists for fashion projects. Create a free account today, submit your portfolio for review, and take your first step toward building a successful fashion photography career.
