What does it mean to be an editorial photographer?

1) What in the world is it?!

First, we need to identify what editorial photography is. What do you think? I’ll give you a minute to ponder about it. Okay, keep that answer in your noggin as it will evolve throughout this reading. Yes, that is foreshadowing for the upcoming series of events. In the traditional sense, the photos that are often included with an article in a magazine are referred to as editorial photography. 

Jumping to the current time period that view has shifted. What changed? I’ll give ya a short synopsis. The focus has primarily shifted toward telling a story with clothing by using imagery rather than text. Photographers in this genre work closely with the stylist to create a compelling story that’ll communicate the designer's ideas. They often hint at a story or sketch out a novel idea. Essentially there is more room for creative liberty and the pictures can also stand alone. 

Does that mean I can only work with clothing? Nope, you can work with food, products, etc. As mentioned before, you are telling a story with the subject matter and Illustrating it with imagery.

2) Are commercial photography and editorial photography the same? 

Wow, another excellent question! Those two genres seem like they're the same right? They both exist in the publication realm. So what’s the difference? The answer lies in how the work is produced and who it is for. Commercial photography's main focus is to help small & large businesses grow financially. The images are licensed and used for promotional materials such as; business cards, increasing website traffic/sales, ads, etc. 

Key differences- 

• Commercial photography's= increases sales, brand awareness, & formal presentation 

• Editorial photography= telling a story in a creative manner.

The image of the chocolates was created to increase sales and brand awareness for the client

The 2nd image was created to illustrate and highlight the chaotic fun energy of the 90s and sunglasses

3) Well that’s great & all, but how do I get started?

 You want to take pictures now!? I like the enthusiasm, well let's not waste any time! I’ll tell you how I plan out editorial-themed shoots. 1st we need to decide on a theme or idea, for example, sake let's do eyewear. Next, we need to decide how we want it to look. I want to create a ’90s-themed eyewear shoot with hip outfits. I’ll be using Pinterest to illustrate the mood and look I have in mind.

This is a collaborative shoot and mood board. Twas Created by Kayla Abrams + Karly Tuuhetaufa + me :)

Next, we’ll need to find a model that can work with us. I like using Canvas to create designs, it’s user-friendly and customizable. 

Now we must prep my friend! We need to do some location scouting or book a studio. In this case, I’m booking a local studio. If you decide to do so, review the studio's policies as they may differ. You don’t want to end up with a large fee. Once that is done we need to source and style the clothing. For beginners, I recommend purchasing items and returning them after the shoot. If that’s not an option for you, take a look into your closet. Select articles of clothing you can use for the shoot. If the clothing is too big for the model, you can clamp it from the back. Oh, we can’t forget about the MHA (make-up and hair artist.) We’ll need one to do the model's makeup and hair. Go ahead and locate one or use your own makeup skills. 

Budget TIP- Some MHA & Models do TFP, which stands for trade for photos. They trade their time/talent to receive your service. You get images for your portfolio and they do as well. It’s a win, win deal. 

Image- Jazmin Quaynor

Alright, it’s the day of the shoot! It’s time to set up the lighting & get the model into the look. We can finally start shooting! Connect with the model, enjoy the session, and give direction when needed. Wrap up when you finish, and thank the model and MHA for their time. Clean up the studio, always leave it better than you found it. Edit the images and deliver them to the model and MHA in a timely manner.  

• Tip- In case the model gets nervous use the power of music to relax them. Put on their favorite band in the background. You’ll both be vibing and the images will turn out great! Genuine emotion goes a long way in illustrating a story. 

Side note- I am not sponsored by the programs mentioned above. I’m sharing what I like to use and have experience in :) 

Choose a theme- eyewear

1. What does it look like? Think of how 

2. Make a mood board- Pinterest, drawing/sketches or whatever your heart desires)

3. Create and share a model call on social media or find a friend that can model. (use canva) 

4. Book and share the mood board with the model- you want to be on the same page.  

5. Prep for the shoot- select location and lighting, style clothing/products beforehand, find a makeup/hair artist, maintain communication with the model, and update them  accordingly 

6. Day of the shoot- set up lighting, clothing, MHA & model on set.

7. Have the model sign a model release form 

8. Shoot 

9. Edit and deliver images 

Conclusion bullet points 

• Commercial photography is to make money while editorial is storytelling 

• You’ve learned how to execute an editorial shoot. It’s a lot of planning but it's worth it 

• Learn about free programs that can aid in brainstorming for shoots 

• Follow me on Pinterest and share the board or pin with me. I’d love to see what you are working on :)