Fashion Runway Photography for Beginners

If you aspire to be a runway fashion photographer or if you simply need to photograph a runway show for a friend, there are some simple techniques you can use to make your photos fantastic.

Position Yourself

Your position can mean the difference between a great photo or no photo at all. The best position is at the end of the catwalk. This way, you can get photos of the models as they walk all the way down to the end. Getting this plum position may require you to get to the show early or to push others out of the way.

If you simply can’t get a spot at the runway’s end, position yourself up higher than the crowd. You can do this by standing on a chair at the back of the room. Use your zoom to get close shots and make sure to keep your camera steady.

Adjust for Color

Many fashion shows incorporate colored lighting. For accurate photos of the clothing colors you will need to compensate for the lighting by adjusting the white balance on your camera or by adding filters to your lens.

The Money Shot

The best shots are captured at the right moments. As a model stomps down the runway, she will display the garment she is wearing. This is when the money shots are made. Here are some basic model movements you should look for:

* Taking off a jacket or wrap and throwing it over the shoulder
* The pose and turn at the end of the catwalk
* Unzipping a garment
* Putting hands in pockets
* Flipping the end of a train or skirt

Setting your camera to photo burst mode will help you capture the most movements so that you have a wider selection of photos to choose from for your project.

The best fashion runway photography tip is to stay alert. You never know when a great shot is about to happen.