4 types of fashion photography that you need to know about

With the rise and development of the fashion industry, fashion photography has become one of the genres that are highly sought after and demanded. Professional fashion photographers are highly competitive since the right connections and knowledge can lead to prestigious awards as well as publications and appreciation.

Understanding the different types of fashion photography can give a special edge and knowledge in the field. There are 4 different types of fashion photography: catalog, high fashion, street fashion, and editorial fashion. Just like any other genre, there are different nuances that make each type of photography stand out and differ from the other.

1. Catalog photography

Catalog photography is considered the simplest of all 4 photography genres since its purpose is to sell clothes. The focus always falls on the outfit. In fashion photography, catalog is a good place to start for beginners. As mentioned above, this is product photography.

The only difference between catalog and product photography is the presence of the model. The focus remains on the clothes. The background of these photographs is usually plain, white, or grey. The biggest problem photographers face with this type is the lighting. That is why it is best to capture those images at day, not at night.

2. High fashion photography

High fashion photographs are the ones people see in the magazines, as covers. From the photographer’s side, it means working with well-known and famous models in exaggerated poses, wearing strange and unrealistic wardrobes, and presence of elements such as hairstyles, exotic locations, and anything else that contributes to a flawless image.

These are all glamorous images that require lots of skill and talent, as well as patience. With this type of photography, the mood of the shoot must be carefully chosen. The model, on the other hand, must be suitable for that mood so that the final goal is pure success. Working for this type of photoshoot means dealing with professionals in different areas.

3. Street fashion photography

Street fashion is also known as urban fashion. It is considered as an opposite style of high fashion. Good examples are hip-hop and alternative fashion-grunge styles. This type of fashion looks a bit more rugged than high fashion. Catching photos of this style means people with jeans, shirts, hoodies.

It can also include dresses that are elegant, but still very comfortable. Photographers in this style shoot regular people on the street and they do not look for models. Street fashion does not only focus on the clothes but also the expression, confidence, and attitude of the wearer.

You might also like: 10 essential steps in high fashion photoshoot

4. Editorial fashion photography

Editorial fashion photography focuses on images that tell a story. There are many editorial fashion photographs and publications like magazines and newspapers. The photos here are accompanied by text, which can cover different subjects. Another interesting point of editorial photography is the story that may or may not hide behind the image.

The specific mood created for this type of shoot will contribute to the story, both close-up or distant captures. Editorial photography can be one of the most rewarding fashion photography styles because of the creativity that it allows to the photographer.

These 4 different styles are the most common ones that define fashion photography. There are a lot of choices when it comes to fashion photography, and what is particularly interesting are the clothes, makeup, and fashion in general that comes as the main focuses. It is both a challenging and rewarding style, and many photographers pursue this style as their professional orientation.

Now you know the main types of fashion photography. As you can see, it is really a wide world full of interesting subgenres, many of which most people have seen but don’t know the name or the intricacies of its activities.

In Jacky Reuter we know the importance of fashion photography as one of the most glamorous and exciting types of photography. We work in this and many other genres of photography and we have the experience and professionalism to deliver a quality service as our many clients can attest.

In Jacky Reuter we can capture the art within the best moments of your life. If you need professional photography and films crafted with care and attention to detail, please don’t hesitate to contact us through our contact page.