It’s not what you think.
Getting your foot in the door of the fashion industry can be difficult… especially in Ireland.
But if you’re working on a fashion photoshoot – well done, you’ve made it.
And while it might seem like being behind the scenes is all glitz and glam, you will learn soon enough that it is certainly not.
Yes, there are standout, fancy moments (that you will totally adore, ofc), but it’s also a lot of hard work.
So, whether you want to get into fashion, or are already working in it, here are 6 lessons you’ll learn – quickly – from being on a fashion photoshoot.
Lesson 1: It’s not glamorous
Yes, the person/people in front of the camera could not be more glamorous or stylish, but behind the camera is a different story. You work hard. You work long hours. You’re probably tired… and you look a wreck, but you keep going because you absolutely love it.
Lesson 2: Comfy clothes are everything
Most of the time, an entire spread will take place in the space of one day – if you’re lucky it’ll be two days. There’s also the days prior where you’re pulling clothes from various shops all over town. You need to dress appropriately and comfortably.
A stylist I used to work with told me once that an assistant arrived in for a day of pulling clothes wearing heels and a mini skirt. Big no-no. You will not be fast enough to get the work done.
Lesson 3: Learn to be quick
As mentioned above, the fashion industry is extremely fast paced and if you need to get ten shots in for an editorial in one day then you need to be quick. Quick but careful.
Clothes are borrowed so you cannot damage them, yet you need to take them off the model at the speed of light. Be organised from the get-go and it’ll run much smoother.
Lesson 4: Learn terms/designers/etc
You will need to pick up on the lingo fast, especially if you also have to take note of the specific outfits. Learn how to spell designers names and how to pronounce them. Learn what ‘taping shoes’ means. Learn what pulling means (it’s not getting the shift in Coppers).
Lesson 5: You will have fun
It can be a stressful job, and extremely full on, but while you’re running around like a mad woman all day, you will have fun if it’s what you love to do. It’s an incredibly enjoyable experience to be around so many creative people, and the industry is packed with funny, enthusiastic minds. Make the most of it.
Lesson 6: When a group of creatives come together, it’s magical
This was my favourite part of working on a photoshoot. Between the fashion stylist, the photographer, the makeup artist, the hair stylist and the creative director – they all have a vision of what they want the photoshoot to be.
And when their separate visions come together as one, it’s brilliant – and you couldn’t be more proud of the work you do.
