Fashion Look Books and Style Guides Photography

Every fashion shoot starts with an idea or vision. Whether it’s minimalist look book or a vibrant, edgy style guide, understanding the brand’s identity is critical. Mood boards are a great way to start the creative conversation as designers bring their ideas, and I bring my technical know-how and creative input. This ensures that the images we are going to make are not just beautiful but also functional. The perfect look book or style guide should draw people in and make them imagine themselves wearing those clothes, and ultimately, inspire them to buy

Shooting in the Studio: Controlled Creativity

Studio shoots are where we can control every aspect from lighting to backgrounds. At my studio in Bath, I’m lucky to have a versatile space that lets me adapt to most  concepts.

For instance in the shoot I did recently for Carole Waller I used crisp lighting to highlight the garments. Texture was very important and I wanted viewers to almost feel the hand painted silk as it wafted with the use of a wind machine.  I purposefully created shadow and depth, creating a moodier vibe that has an editorial feel.

Shooting on Location: Adaptability and Emotion

If the studio is about control, location shoots are often about adaptability and emotion. This is where fashion photography comes alive. A carefully chosen backdrop can elevate a garment from “great” to “amazing.” 

Location shoots aren’t all glamour and nearly always come with challenges—It may mean waiting for the right weather, chasing sunlight and dodging the rain, getting permits or an annoying passersby—but the results are usually worth it. 

Bringing It All Together

Once the shoot is done, the real work begins. Editing is where I refine the images and align them with a brand’s identity. It’s about creating cohesion—whether that means creating a custom colour grade that is applied across the whole image collection or cleaning up and enhancing the tonal range of a studio shoot.

For me, photography is always about connection. Whether it’s in the controlled environment of the Studio or the unpredictable beauty of an outdoor location, creating fashion photography with my clients, models and  crew is a labor of love, a craft, and always a joy. 

Categorised in: Fashion Photography

This post was written by Colin

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“ Colin was absolutely superb to work with, was really understanding and flexible, and the quality of his shots is excellent.  Couldn’t have asked for better and we’re so grateful you were able to help with  at such short notice too!”

HfH

Creative Director

"We have solely used Colin's services for the past 18 years for our company's website and it's always been such a delight to deal with him. His professionalism, enthusiasm, flair and creativity make him a real gem to work with. Tried others but kept going back to Colin. We'll always use him first.”

B Bm

"Colin is a phenomenal photographer….he could not have made me feel more comfortable. Throughout the shoot, he remained conscious of my artistic visions and captured them perfectly, whilst gently directing me throughout the process.“

E. Scrivens

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