Fashion in urban environments
The theme for October is “fashion in urban environments”. When questioned about the criteria for winning the contest, Julie replies that a photograph must have an identity. In her opinion, identity is displayed by light, composition and expression.
“Creativity is a wonderful thing. It is so liberating. But for me, as a professionally trained photographer, light is essential. Without the light, a photograph has practically nothing to offer. In my mind, to win, you must show that you can in one way or another control the light in your photography. You can work with daylight, artificial light or some other source. I’m hoping to see a photograph that makes me stop in my tracks, and I’m pretty confident I will,” she says.
Not outfit of the month !
For Julie, fashion photography has nothing to do with the best outfit. Even though the focus is on the clothes or fashion, it is how you tell the story that counts. In other words: how an outfit can be immortalised and you can create a fashion photograph that is still as wonderful to look at ten years from now.
“It may happen quickly or it could also take time. That’s what I love about photography. There was this one time when I took the shot for the front page of a magazine in less than three minutes. There was no point taking any more shots, the first one was just right. Hopefully, I’ll see that kind of spontaneous photography now,” she says.
Keep in mind focal length !
A long focal length is important for fashion photography, although this depends somewhat on whether you prefer extreme angles or not. If you want to find a compromise, Julie can recommend a lens such as the Nikkor 85mm, and describes it as a fantastic lens for both portraits and fashion.
“Buy a stand and use daylight and flash – preferably at the same time. Try something new every time – it's the best way to learn. But you don't need the most expensive camera or the best lenses. Be creative and do things your own way. The day you stop being creative is the day to find a new job,” she claims.