Fashion Photos

By Andrew Green

I have the Foo Fighters to blame for getting me into mobile photography. To get presale tickets to a gig, I needed to be on a UK cellular network. And, to get on that network, I needed to get an iPhone 4.

So, I got the iPhone and immediately downloaded Hipstamatic. Although I didn’t get tickets to the gig, I became absolutely hooked on Hipstamatic. Around that time, I had one of my first fashion shoots. To the surprise of the model, I asked if she wouldn’t mind me taking some pictures on my phone. She agreed, and I loved the results. This would become a recurring theme over the next 3 years.

I always get asked “Why are you shooting with that?” Traditional DSLRs give such similar results, and I want to create something different, while still getting beautiful, interesting images. When I show people the results, and they call others over and say, “You should see this!” then I know I’ve done my job.

I now use Oggl on every shoot, applying the same principles I would use when shooting with any other camera. 

HOW TO:

Scout & Prep: Scout locations in advance to make sure you have the conditions you want, and have lens and film combos in your head. Reviewing as you go along is key. Don’t however be so set in your ways and always stick to the same combos. Oggl now gives you the opportunity to change things after the shoot, giving you surprising but excellent results that you may have not gotten before. Remember to save those as favorites!

Know Your Audience: Are you shooting for yourself or for a client? If it’s a client, get a brief on their requirements. If it’s for yourself, have a clear idea in your head what you are trying to achieve with the shoot. Storyboarding can help ensure everyone gets what they want, and advance preparation means that if time is restricted, then no time is wasted.

Assemble an A-team: Put interesting people and clothes in front of the camera, and work with the best creative team you can assemble. It makes your job a million times easier, and you’ll definitely get better results.

Basics Still Rule: Fundamental points of creating great images still apply, meaning lighting, composition, ideas, and killer concepts. You also need to be flexible — work with people so you can get the best out of them.

Make Moves: Be prepared to move around and use your feet more than you normally would to frame shots and get the best composition. I generally take this as a plus. It makes you work harder, and you come up with ideas as you go. It also helps ensure you’re never complacent.

Silence the Skeptics: You may face skepticism when shooting with your phone, so be sure to show people your work in advance. On set, talk them through why you’re doing what you’re doing, and show them the great results. This helps people embrace doing something new, and the photos are better because of it.