What Equipment Is Required to Be a Fashion Photographer?

DSLR Camera

More and more art directors require fashion photographers to provide them with large images. This means that you will need a high-pixel-count camera like a digital single-lens reflex camera. DSLRs are different from regular “point-and-shoot” cameras in that they give the photographer more control over the image, which the photographer can see optically, directly through the camera's higher-quality lens, as well as via an LCD video screen. With DSLR cameras, photographers can manually set the aperture, shutter speed, ISO rating and depth of field to get exactly what they want out of each image. Canon and Nikon are examples of mainstream producers of DSLRs, and the cameras cost anywhere from $400 to $8,000, depending on the quality and features of the camera. If you can't to purchase a top-end camera right away, purchase a cheaper model and rent a high-end camera for shoots that require higher pixel counts to produce billboard-sized images.

Once you've purchased the body of the camera, you must choose appropriate lenses for your shoots. Variable zoom lenses are fast and allow for fast shooting. Zoom lenses allow you to achieve close up images of your subject without making them uncomfortable. Wide-angle zoom lenses are best if you need to capture the surrounding environment. Prime lenses are great for portraits by allowing for a more shallow depth of field.

To create top-notch images, fashion photographers should invest in filters, tripod, flashes, and remotes. These are accessories that you don't necessarily need in the beginning, but each allows for a better image. For instance, a tripod is used to keep the camera steady in shooting. You can always set your camera on another steady surface like a shelf, but this limits your shooting options. If your camera is flash-equipped, you may not necessarily need a mounted flash, but using flash units will allow you to create different effects when you shoot.

To make your clients comfortable, fashion photographers should own a foldable table and folding chairs that they can bring to their set. Photographers should also invest in a set of backdrops, which can be as simple as your favorite type of cloth or metallic material. A photographer will need a camera bag to hold all of her equipment, and a battery pack or power strip to keep her equipment charged. Since you'll most likely be shooting digital photos, be sure to purchase a copy of Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to edit your images to perfection.