Why is Fashion Photography so important?

Fashion has always been a huge part of expressing ourselves as humans, but how has photography changed it?

Before the invention of phones and camera’s, fashion was something that people were only able to express and portray in person or through paintings. That was up until the 1850’s, when photos were taken of the wealthy in France to portray their style of dress. Despite this, fashion photography was not properly popularised until the beginning of the 20th century. This was because fashion had only just become accessible to a much wider audience, therefore only just sparking more people’s interest in the photography side.

There were only a few fashion magazines available at this time, such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, which were hand drawn. This shifted in 1913, when Vogue introduced it’s first ever photographer, beginning the age of fashion photography and it’s inclusion in fashion magazines.

Fashion photography has such a important and impactful history, with it’s evolution reflecting the changing historical conditions and social values. For example, after WW2, many new designers popped up, and fashion models became really important. There were many new approaches to photography, and famous names paved their way, making a mark on fashion photography history.

All of these aspects have had a huge impact on fashion photography today, and is the reason why many photographers make certain stylistic choices.

In today’s age, fashion photography is bigger than it ever has been, with the rise of social media and modern technology. It can be used to portray things such as diversity, self-expression, racism, consumerism, and social, political, economic and cultural values.

Fashion photography has made a huge mark on the world and continues to do so as each new day passes. All of the aspects are the reason why it’s so important, crucial to the fashion industry, and helped influence the world on the diversity of fashion.

By Aimee Cazeaux