I’m 18 years old and just finished my HSC. I would like to know how can I become a fashion photographer. I live in Australia and I’m wondering what courses can I do or what jobs can I get that would put me in the direction of becoming a Fashion Photographer.
Answers from working fashion photographers would be great!
Many Thanks!!!!
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well obviously you should go to college and major as a photographer. slowly you build a portfolio and work your way up after you get out of college.
the thing about being a successful commercial photographer is you have to be technically proficient, visually creative, and most importantly be able to connect with people in a pressure situation. all at the same time.
let me give you an example, if i sent you to a school to take year book pictures do you think you could get great photos with nice expressions from subjects who don’t want their picture taken?
or let’s say your shooting a wedding do you think you could get those perfect shots during the ceremony or pose and direct people taking formal group shots with no time or studio?
so the answer to these questions will reveal if you have the temperament or desire to be in these types of situations for a living. it also shows you that experience is the greatest teacher so you need to try to find jobs as an assistant to learn from a seasoned veteran. it takes time to learn what you want so you can direct and pose people with confidence to bring out the best in your model.
I’ve actually heard a recommendation not to major in photography, because a major in a different area will help you be a more well-rounded person–as well as giving you the oppurtunity to shape your own artistic photography future. If possible, maybe you could look into a major in Art or Fashion Design, with a minor in photography.
I would say start off small–try and get a job working at a photo studio or in a photography lab. I did the first option for a summer job, and it was quite an interesting experience–it really does help you develop a good temperment for the job. Right now I do photojournalism at my school paper, which allows me to shoot many different types of situations. If you do this, it can also help you build up a portfolio, which is the most important part of getting booked.
Sign up for photography workshops as well–not only will you learn valuable information, but you can also get your instructor’s contact information to help with networking.
Keep an eye out for internships as well–they can be your greatest “in” to a job in photography.