When I go out and look around, I notice how differently people dress, how they arrange and layer their outfits. Many of them might think they’re outside the realm of the fashion world. However, as Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada taught me, that could not be further from the truth.
Take a simple blue sweater, for instance. Some might think it’s a random choice, but, as Miranda points out, “That blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs, and it’s comical how you think you’ve made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you’re wearing a sweater selected for you… from a pile of stuff.” The point is: the fashion industry is everywhere, influencing us even when we think we’re making independent choices. But how does it have such a hold on us? One powerful answer: editorial photography.
What is editorial photography?
Editorial photography is a style primarily used in magazines, newspapers, and online publications to tell stories and bring clothing to life. It goes beyond showing clothes as mere fabric; it connects us emotionally to what we wear, making even a simple blue sweater feel like part of a larger narrative.
Editorial photography doesn’t need words, so it tells stories through images. It’s all about narrative. Every editorial photo is crafted to make you feel something or to spotlight a particular detail that ties into a bigger theme. Think of it as the visual sidekick to an article— its job is to bring the story to life, to turn words into emotions, and to make sure that even if you’re just flipping through pages, you’re still getting the message loud and clear.
Characteristics of Editorial Photography
Variety
What makes editorial photography especially fun is its sheer variety. This is a genre that refuses to be pinned down. One day, it could be giving real-life photojournalism then the next, it’s diving headfirst into a high-fashion world. The style can shift and morph depending on the publication or the story it’s trying to tell. But no matter how much it changes, there’s always a thread connecting it back to the narrative — each photo has a reason, a purpose, a plot of its own.
If it’s relevant
Then there’s the matter of staying relevant. Editorial photos have to keep their finger on the pulse of what’s happening right now. They capture cultural moments, societal shifts, and current trends, making them feel urgent and alive. This relevance is what makes editorial photography feel like a snapshot of the world as it is, right at this very moment.
The obvious creative freedom
But here’s where things get really interesting: when the photo clearly has creative freedom, that’s when you know it’s most likely editorial. Unlike commercial photography, which often has to play by strict rules and stick to a brand’s vision, editorial photography loves to break the mold. Photographers get to experiment with wild concepts, unusual lighting, unexpected compositions, and all kinds of post-processing magic. It’s like being handed a creative license to surprise, provoke, and delight, without having to worry about sticking to a script.
It’s goal is to make you think and feel.
Finally, let’s not forget that editorial photography isn’t here to sell you stuff — well, you know, at least not directly. While it might feature high fashion, reference controversial events, or feature fascinating people, its main goal is different. It’s to make you think, feel, and engage with the clothing as a process and as a product.
Editorial vs commercial photography
First off, purpose. Editorial photography is all about storytelling. It’s like the visual narrator that adds depth and dimension to articles or stories. On the other hand, commercial photography is more of a salesperson. It exists to make you want, need, or buy something. It’s there to push products, boost brands, and close deals. It’s all business!
Then there’s the matter of creative direction. Editorial photographers? They’re the wild ones since they have so much room to play around. They get to experiment with artistic concepts, be avant-garde, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. All in the name of telling a compelling story. There are fewer rules, more room to play, and a lot more space to explore.
In contrast, commercial photographers have a bit more of a straight-and-narrow path. They’re working within the tight constraints of brand guidelines, marketing strategies, and client demands. Their job is to deliver images that fit a pre-defined vision — creativity is welcome, but it’s creativity with a specific outcome in mind.
How do I take editorial photos?
Editorial photography takes more than just snapping a few pictures. It requires meticulous planning, creativity, and a deep understanding of the story’s essence. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to take editorial photos:
Step 1: Choose a theme that’ll speak volumes.
First things first: nail down a theme. Think of the theme as the soul of your photoshoot — it’s what gives the images all their purpose and meaning. The theme should align with the publication’s content (remember to coordinate with them!) and ideally strike a chord with its audience.
Maybe dive into current social issues, shine a light on cultural trends, or tell a deeply personal story. Whatever the case, the theme should evoke emotion and spark curiosity. Ask yourself, “What’s the message I want these images to send? How do I want people to feel when they see them?”
Step 2: Agree on a mood board.
Once you’ve got your theme down pat, it’s time to make something everyone involved can see and feel to understand your vision: a mood board. It’ll be the core of your brainstorming sessions.
Gather images, colors, textures, and snippets that embody the mood and aesthetic you’re going for. Get creative and gather a mix of fashion spreads, art pieces, photos, or even a swatch of fabric. This mood board becomes your visual blueprint, ensuring that you, the client, the editor, and the creative team are all speaking the same visual language.
Step 3: Pick and style the right models.
Now, who are the characters in your visual story? Don’t just pick faces that look good on camera — cast the right people to embody the essence of your theme. Look for models who not only fit the aesthetic but who can also project the emotions and narratives you’re trying to capture. Are they strong and defiant? Vulnerable and introspective? The right model can add layers of meaning with a single look or gesture.
Once you have your cast, work with stylists to create looks that feel authentic to the story. Clothing, accessories, and makeup aren’t just decorative, they’re narrative tools that add depth and detail.
Step 4: Get the perfect location.
The location has to set the right tone and atmosphere for your story. It should do more than look pretty, it should feel like an extension of the narrative that you and your team want to tell.
Hmmm, examples. Oh! Think of how an abandoned warehouse might speak to themes of decay and renewal, while a cozy, cluttered café could capture the warmth and intimacy of everyday moments. No matter what location you land on, remember the right setting can amplify the mood you’re trying to create, turning good photos into unforgettable ones.
Step 5: Pre-plan your shots with a shot list.
Before you start shooting, plan out your shots. This is where something called “a shot list” comes into play. Make a list that includes a variety of compositions, angles, and perspectives to ensure you tell a complete visual story.
Wide-angle shots to establish the setting? Could be nice. Tight close-ups to capture those nuanced emotions and little details? Yes. A well-thought-out shot list ensures that you get all the essential images and have enough visual variety to keep your story dynamic and engaging from start to finish.
Step 6: Be a nice director! You set the mood.
During the shoot, direct your models with clarity and confidence. You have to exude good vibes to guide their expressions and body language to align with the story you wanna tell. Encourage them to tap into genuine emotions and create candid moments that feel authentic and alive. Stay flexible and responsive to the vibe on set — sometimes, the best shots happen in those spontaneous, unplanned moments. Be open to the unexpected and ready to capture magic when it strikes.
Step 7: Edit well and soulfully.
The story doesn’t end when the camera stops clicking, especially when the publication is paying you to edit, too. Editing is where you fine-tune your visual narrative. Please don’t just slap on a filter and call it a day. Do more. Enhance the story with subtle adjustments to color, contrast, and sharpness.
Your goal, oh powerful one, is to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the images while creating a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with your theme. Remember, every tweak should serve the narrative — not overshadow it.
Editorial Photography Examples
Let’s dive into some real-world examples of editorial photography that show just how powerful this art form can be.
Fearless Fashion in Vogue Italia
Its theme was: Defiance and unconventional beauty.
This campaign in Vogue Italia was all about pushing the boundaries of what’s considered beautiful in the fashion world. The theme here is rebellion — against traditional fashion norms, against expected aesthetics, and even against the typical constraints of a glossy magazine spread.
Planet or Plastic? Campaign by National Geographic
Its theme was: Environmental awareness.
The theme centered around the threat of plastic pollution, showing how it’s seeped into every corner of our planet, from the deepest ocean trenches to the most remote beaches.
The Eyes of War by Time Magazine
Its theme was: The human cost of war and the unseen stories behind the headlines.
“The Eyes of War” focused on the raw, unfiltered human emotions that come with conflict. The theme revolves around bringing the unseen stories of war into sharp focus. It showed that behind every statistic is a human being with dreams, fears, and scars. Both visible and invisible.
FAQs: Editorial Photography
Editorial photography tells a story or complements written content. Meanwhile, high fashion photography focuses on showcasing high-end fashion and luxury.
Editorial photos are created to accompany and enhance text in publications. On the other hand, non-editorial photos may not have a narrative purpose and could be used for commercial, personal, or artistic reasons.
An editorial look refers to the styling, pose, and mood used in photos that fit the story or theme of a magazine or article. It’s often characterized by a distinct, artistic, and story-driven approach.
Editorial photographers can earn anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000+ annually, with freelance rates ranging from $200 to $1,500 per assignment.
Welcome to Editorial Photography!
Editorial photography is a dynamic and expressive field that blends stories with visuals and art. You go from conceptualizing a theme to executing a photoshoot, so it’s no surprise that it involves creativity, planning, and an understanding of the narrative. I hope you learned something from the sections above, whether it be in the editorial photography definition, characteristics, examples, or the FAQs. Onward, editorial photographer! You have much more to accomplish.
