Hello fashion aficionados and fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m Mark Sachet, a seasoned fashion photographer on a mission to unravel the secrets of creating stunning visual narratives on location. Fashion photography is more than just capturing garments and makeup; it's about telling a story, and what better backdrop than the dynamic canvas of real-world locations? Join me as we touch the surface of the art of fashion photography on location and uncover the magic that awaits.
#1 Embracing the Unknown Location
When you arrive at a shoot location you’ve never seen before, that can elevate your fashion photography to new heights. To me, it almost always improves my creativity and decision making when I haven’t seen a location I’m supposed to shoot at. Whether you're in the heart of a bustling city like Downtown Phoenix, or capturing the unique vibe of a small business brick and mortar building, let the location itself become an essential character in your fashion story.
Explore every angle and look for the best window lighting or shade for your subjects. Pair that with strobe lighting (this will be for another deep dive blog) and urban locations provide an edgy and contemporary backdrop that can amplify the style and attitude of your fashion subjects. This photo was taken for a local designer in her store located in Scottsdale, AZ. We used a setup she already had at her store and made it part of the overall story.
#2 Nature’s Runway
If you want a change in the urban look, plan on shooting at a destination outside of town. One of my absolute favorite shoots was at sand dunes in the Arizona Desert. But you can choose any outside location based on where you are. Consider the textures of a forest, the reflections in a serene lake, or the golden hour glow on a mountaintop – each location tells a different story so make the most of it!
Experiment with the interplay between fashion and the elements. Flowing dresses catch the wind on a clifftop, while vibrant colors pop against the greenery of a botanical garden. Nature's versatility allows you to create diverse and captivating fashion stories that resonate with the beauty of the great outdoors.
#3 Logistics and Creativity in Harmony
On-location fashion photography brings its own set of challenges, but with careful planning, these challenges can transform into opportunities for innovation. Scout your locations beforehand to understand the available natural light, potential obstacles, and creative angles. Consider the logistics of outfit changes, props, and any necessary permits for shooting in public spaces. Time of year is also a must to consider where the sun will be and at what time.
Harness the power of spontaneity; sometimes, the most captivating shots happen when you embrace the unexpected. Capture a model twirling in the middle of a busy street or posing against a captivating mural. Let the location influence your creative process, and watch as your fashion photography comes alive with a vibrant energy that only on-location shoots can provide.
As we embark on this journey through the world of fashion photography on location, remember that each setting is a unique chapter in your visual story. When you can master the settings of your camera and Immerse yourself in the surroundings, your creativity can grow! Let the location guide you and watch as your fashion narratives unfold against the backdrop of the world's most captivating spaces.
Stay tuned for more behind-the-lens stories and personalized tips as we explore the limitless possibilities of fashion photography on location together. Here's to chasing style in every corner of the world! (Glo Atanmo in Cartegena, Colombia).
- Mark
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