Fashion/Beauty/Glamour Photography Part#2

Beauty Photography Part 2 of 3

Much of what constitutes fashion, beauty, or glamour photography is often found in the way the image is used, the type of model chosen for the image, the quality or type of light, and/or the venue the image is presented in. Much of what you’ve seen in cosmetic ads, makeup ads, and/or skin care products may fall under the classification of beauty photography.

All categories aim for models that are youthful in appearance and yet beauty photography like fashion photography often tends to trend younger still; gearing many television and print ads toward a demographic that falls within the 18 -30 age range. The lighting used is mid to high key to create an air of cleanliness. Furthermore, high key light tends to blowout (diminish) any wrinkles or other imperfections in the skin. This quality of light is less contrasting and of cooler temperatures to portray even skin tones and an air of coolness to the general picture.

Commercial beauty photography often emphasizes skin and hair of a model. Models have better than average complexions and skin quality. While images of beauty are geared toward female markets, there is an increasing amount of beauty imaging trending toward younger male markets with skin and hair product ads featured in many magazines; ads like Axe and even shaving and skin care products by Neutrogena.

The primary market is still female and you will see many images focused on the upper body with very tight close shots of the face, neck, shoulders, and hair. The idea is to show youthfulness, natural beauty, vitality, and cleanliness.

Recurring themes of beauty photography and video are often whimsical themes that are light, and airy. Models are often shown laughing, smiling, or even dancing.

Strong commercial uses of such types of video and photography are Maybelline, Neutrogena, Revlon, and Dove. There are several others but those are the most advertised.

Keep in mind that these are not hard facts but largely subjective classifications. However, most professional photographers and individuals in the industry will have some classification even if broad of what genre an image falls in. You will hear questions like “It’s fashion, but is it high fashion?” Or “the image is more appropriate for Sports Illustrated than beauty photography.” What is being applied in these comments is where an image, design, or video may fall categorically. If you’re interested in getting into the industry its important to define your style and understand the dynamics of segmentation.

Wil