Fashion Photographer Career Information
Photographer Matt Hardy once said, "Beauty can be seen in all things; seeing and composing the beauty is what separates the snapshot from the photograph." This quote applies excellently to fashion photography. Beauty is the key to fashion photography. Fashion photographers take pictures of gorgeous clothes, accessories, people and places, but it takes talent to make the photo itself beautiful. The field of fashion photography fits shutterbugs who have a deep appreciation for the latest styles.
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Job Description
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The title "fashion photographer" sounds self-explanatory, but the job requires more than just taking pictures. Fashion photographers need to work with props, lighting and models to create the best possible pictures. The job also requires strong interpersonal skills. Fashion photographers have to work with people, including models, fashion editors, stylists, agents and art directors and clients. All of these elements combined can make a photography assignment difficult, but a skilled photographer will overcome the challenges to create a gorgeous shoot.
Education
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If you want to land a job in the field of fashion photography, you do not have to spend thousands of dollars on an education. While having a degree in photography will not hinder a photographer from breaking into the field, practical knowledge is more desirable. Fashion photographers generally learn through apprenticeships to established photographers. An internship with a well known photographer will also help aspirants enter the field.
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Qualifications
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Aside from knowing how to use a camera, budding fashion photographers need to possess other skills to advance in the field. Employers look for candidates with an artist's eye, knowledge of the latest technological advancements in photography and good people skills. Having a positive reputation and showing your drive helps you get your foot in the door. Clients want a photographer who can translate their ideas into photographs.
Breaking into the Field
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Professional fashion photographer Nicolass de Bruin recommends that those who wish to enter the field should market themselves intensively. De Bruin notes that he promoted himself at every party in New York he attended. By introducing himself to as many people as possible, de Bruin made important connections that helped him when he moved to Los Angeles. Developing a portfolio of photos will showcase a photographer's talent. After making connections, a budding fashion photographer needs to have proof of his talent.
Career Outlook
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While fashion photographers can travel all over the world taking pictures, they usually return to New York or Los Angeles, the homes of the American fashion industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that careers in photography will increase 10 percent by the year 2016. However, the field of fashion photography can be challenging to enter. A large number of people want jobs in this field, but few open positions exist.
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References
- Fashion Schools: Fashion Photographer
- All Art Schools: Is Fashion Photography for You?
- Education-Portal: Job Description and Info for Students Considering a Career in Fashion Photography
- Jobmonkey: Modeling Industry Photographer Jobs
- Photography Schools: Interview: Meet Fashion Photographer Nicolass de Bruin
- Photoquotes: Matt Hardy
- Photo Credit Rob Melnychuk/Photodisc/Getty Images
