As a fashion photographer, I’m always on the lookout for cool, new locations. Getting a stylish shot is easy if you know the right tricks. Let me share my life hacks for taking modern, trendy, and interesting magazine photos.
Location
Location is the first piece of the puzzle. For me, a simple background leaves more attention for the person and clothes. During my years in Lisbon, I often chose Parque das Nações. Most examples here were photographed there: its modern buildings, lines, textures, and plain walls offered plenty of possibilities.
For a new Miami session, I look for those useful qualities: a background that supports the outfit, suitable light, and room to move. These earlier photographs retain their Lisbon location.
Outfit
I often consider two directions: a quiet outfit in the location’s color family, or a bright contrast that becomes the main accent. Then I look at the complete shape, fabric, shoes, and accessories. Check how loose clothing behaves in wind, and bring comfortable shoes for walking between photographs.
Pose
A comfortable pose matters more to me than a complicated one. Walk, stand, sit, or lie down when the setting allows it. A small shift of weight or turn of the head can be enough. If something feels uncomfortable, we change it. My posing guide gives more practical examples.
Geometry
Architecture, repeated lines, and rhythm give a frame structure. With a wide-angle lens, watch the edges and the relationship between the person and the building. Correcting lines later can change the crop. I decide during the shoot whether a tilted line distracts or supports the idea. I enjoy experimenting, but I want the choice to be intentional.
Light
Natural light is a big part of my work. I often visit a location a day or two before the shoot, at the time I plan to photograph there, and check where the sun will be. A little preparation makes it much easier to work with light and shadow.
Details in the Frame
I check for small distractions: a label, litter, a bright shape behind the head. In the staircase example here, people kept passing through the frame. I waited for a few clear seconds. Yes, retouching can remove distractions, but I love getting a clean, stylish photograph in the camera.
Angle Matters
Try the same scene from three or four positions. Move left or right, lower the camera, or find a higher viewpoint. Notice how the background and the proportions of the face, body, or clothes change. Experiment and compare. It’s a simple way to discover something you wouldn’t see from your usual angle.
For a street style series in Miami, tell me your idea and how you will use the photographs. We can plan a private photo shoot or visual content for your personal brand around the clothes, mood, and setting💛
Author: Julia Yatel
