Fashion photography is an ephemeral beast that seems to change as quickly as fashion itself. I can imagine it feels like a constant re-invention. However, there are many successful fashion photographers who carve out long and industrious careers. They all have a few things in common: they are incredibly hard-working, highly skilled, and masters at evolving and adapting.
One great example of this is Fashion and commercial photographer Lindsay Adler. She always seems to shine at everything she does, and she is generous with sharing her tips and tricks too. In this video for Adorama, Lindsay shares five nuggets of information to help any aspiring fashion photographer.
1. Collaborate with a strong creative team
Fashion photography is rarely a solo endeavour. The dynamic between a photographer and their creative team—including hairstylists, makeup artists, and wardrobe stylists—plays a critical role in bringing a vision to life. Each team member contributes expertise and creativity, helping to execute cohesive and visually stunning projects. A well-coordinated team can elevate a photoshoot to something truly memorable.
Lindsay suggests doing some test collaborations with different professionals to find the right fit. Look for individuals who not only align with your creative goals but also foster a positive, productive environment on set.
2. Define and refine your style
Your style is your signature—a distinctive combination of lighting, colours, subject matter, and emotion that sets your work apart. However, it’s not easily something you can define looking forward. You simply have to keep producing work that resonates with you, and then define your style retroactively. A clear and cohesive style makes your work more recognizable to clients and helps you stand out in a competitive industry.
Here’s how to define your style:
- Review your portfolio and identify recurring themes or elements in your favorite images.
- Select three photographs that best define your aesthetic and use them as a benchmark for refining your style.
- Experiment within this framework to evolve and strengthen your unique voice.
3. Incorporate trends through test shoots
Staying aware of industry trends can keep your work relevant and fresh. Regular test shoots are an excellent way to explore these trends in a low-pressure environment. You can also look at leading fashion publications and social media influencers to identify emerging visual trends, such as bold colour palettes or creative makeup designs. Schedule monthly test shoot days to experiment with these trends alongside your established style.
Yes, AI is here to stay so we may as well harness it for good rather than evil! By using AI as a helpful tool yu can streamline your workflow and have it do some of the heavier lifting to save you time. Work smarter in other words, not harder.
Some ideas on how to use AI include creating mood boards and fleshing out creative ideas, simplifying culling and retouching tasks, or adding movement to still images to add interest.
5. Stay relevant with the Pantone Color of the Year
Lindsay suggests incorporating the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, into your shoots. Its rich, comforting tone offers endless possibilities for creative experimentation, she says. While it may look like something you avoid on the sidewalk, this colour will be everywhere this year (whether you like it or not). Sometimes, you just have to embrace the madness!
Incorporating this colour into your shoots can help your portfolio feel on trend and provide a creative challenge! You can experiment with fabrics, props, and lighting that highlight its richness, and tag it on social media with #PantoneColorOfTheYear to increase visibility among art directors and clients.
Obviously, these tips are just a starting point, but they should help kick your 2025 into the most fabulously fashionable year yet!
