By Julia Aidan
Giorgio Armani, the famous personality in the fashion industry, was born in the year 1934 in Piacenza, a small countryside in Milan. He studied in a public school where he got fascinated towards cinema and photography. After serving in Italian army for three years he finally began his profession in the fashion industry. Initially he joined the Nino Cerrati , a popular fashion house in Italy. After learning the concepts of designing for nine years with Nino, he stepped in to the fashion world as a designer in 1970 and soon in 1974 he started with the Armani Brand clothing and now there are variety of products offered under Armani brand.
Armani Exchange, the brand that gave a variety of clothing for affordable prices soon became popular amongst people due to its low-priced products. It was created in 1991 and amazingly now there are around 63 well-known boutiques in USA and more than 47 are there in the international market. Over the period of time the prices for Armani Exchange gradually grew and hence lost the popularity amongst the masses.
Armani Casa, that offers a wide range in furniture and home decoration furnishings proved itself to success. Its products are often sold at higher prices because it offers quality products and also it shares a good brand name in the market.
Armani Jeans, another fashionable range of clothing that has done quite well in the UK market and has shown exceptional performance in London, Manchester and Liverpool as compared to other cities. People go crazy for the trendiest styles like J16 and J31, which costs around120 pounds in UK and are available in quite well known stores. Armani Junior caters to the need of juniors and are available in kid's male and female range.
Emporio Armani, the fashion clothing that attract the young generation has achieved enormous success and fame in the USA and still proves to be the best in the present scenario. It is presently the lowest priced product as compared to other brands in the Armani range.
Armani Collezioni fulfils the need of the young professionals and the challengers of the new society. In London this product range has done a tremendous business as the Armani Collezioni includes tailor-made suits which are workwear collection and being the costliest brand targets the high class society.
This is not the end, Armani has further added a premium collection of cosmetics along with designer Fashion clothing which contributes to very good revenues for Armani. The cosmetic collection includes a variety of skin care products and perfume assortment for both men and women.
Presently the Giorgio Armani summer collection has created waves in the market by presenting beautiful clothes in order to meet the demands of your daily life. The fabric used is of high quality and being lightweight it seems to flow on the body. The color combinations are such that it has a lasting impact on the spectator. The overall impression is very effective and mind blowing thus giving you a distinctive appearance. Just recently Armani has come out with a beautiful collection of undergarments as Emporio Armani Women's Underwear, and if Victoria Beckham is promoting the brand, the product has to hit the market and contribute to huge profits for Armani!!
About The Author
Looking for the most fashionable clothes that are well-known in the international market log in at zara clothing experience the world of fashion and know the famous fashion designers of the fashion world at h&m clothing, to explore the world of glamorous fashion designers at mordernights.com.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Versace Clothing
By Julia Aidan
Gianni Versace, the founder of world famous Versace Brand, is from Italy and he started with Versace in 1978, when the first Versace boutique was inaugurated in Milan, Via dellea Spiga. Presently, is one of the most well known brand in the world among other famous brands. It has a huge collection of fashion clothing, perfumes, beauty products, home d'cor and accessories under the Versace Brand.
Gianni Versace was killed on 15 July 1997, after which his sister Donatella Versace took over his business as a creative director for Versace and Santo Versace was appointed as the CEO of the company. Versace is highly organized where the designers and stylists work in groups and these groups dedicate themselves to a specific fashion label. Donatella Versace inspects and guides them perfectly well.
Versace has a number of fashion labels which form the entire group. The famous labels I the group are Gianni Versace Couture, Versace Home Collections, Versace Jeans Couture and Versus and Versace Collection. Apart fro clothing and fashion accessories, Versace has also stepped into the hotel business, popularly known as The Palazzo Versace.
The main fashion label from the Versace brand is the Gianni Versace Couture which includes Fashion apparels, watches, perfumes, cosmetics and a range of home d'cor. Initially, only the Gianni Versace Couture dominated the runway at the Milan's Fashion show, but now things are quite different. The Couture fashion has a very high range of dresses which cost around $10,000 and the Gianni Versace Suits cost about $5000, which can not be afforded by just anybody. This type of variety is highly in demand and Donatella is keen to produce more of these items under this fashion line.
Versace Jeans Couture concentrates on informal wear, it is casual clothing which caters to a different class of people who are comfortable in wearing something casual. These include High-end Denims and Gianni Versace Printed shirts. These come in huge variety and are easily available in stores and that too at affordable prices! This fashion label has around more than 56 boutiques with flagship stores. It has around 1800 multi-brand stores where the brand is on sale with other famous brands even the Online shops. The Versace Sports wear includes active wear and accessories with the brand name featured on it.
Doantella has not only performed exceptionally well in the men's collection but has also shown a remarkable performance in the women fashion clothing and accessories. She is strongly determined to give the best in women�s fashion. Her collection in this range has given a sexy, bold and an elegant look and thus enhanced the beauty of the lady. Versace fashionable clothing is widely supported by the a number of Class 1 celebrities and top models as it offers a huge variety of fashionable clothes that suit their needs.
Finally, Versace has developed an immense significance in the worlds fashion industry and has maintained its name from several years in the market. There are future trends set that will take Versace to heights never imagined!
About The Author
Looking for the most fashionable clothes that are well-known in the international market log in at zara clothing experience the world of fashion and know the famous fashion designers of the fashion world at h&m clothing, to explore the world of glamorous fashion designers at mordernights.com.
Gianni Versace, the founder of world famous Versace Brand, is from Italy and he started with Versace in 1978, when the first Versace boutique was inaugurated in Milan, Via dellea Spiga. Presently, is one of the most well known brand in the world among other famous brands. It has a huge collection of fashion clothing, perfumes, beauty products, home d'cor and accessories under the Versace Brand.
Gianni Versace was killed on 15 July 1997, after which his sister Donatella Versace took over his business as a creative director for Versace and Santo Versace was appointed as the CEO of the company. Versace is highly organized where the designers and stylists work in groups and these groups dedicate themselves to a specific fashion label. Donatella Versace inspects and guides them perfectly well.
Versace has a number of fashion labels which form the entire group. The famous labels I the group are Gianni Versace Couture, Versace Home Collections, Versace Jeans Couture and Versus and Versace Collection. Apart fro clothing and fashion accessories, Versace has also stepped into the hotel business, popularly known as The Palazzo Versace.
The main fashion label from the Versace brand is the Gianni Versace Couture which includes Fashion apparels, watches, perfumes, cosmetics and a range of home d'cor. Initially, only the Gianni Versace Couture dominated the runway at the Milan's Fashion show, but now things are quite different. The Couture fashion has a very high range of dresses which cost around $10,000 and the Gianni Versace Suits cost about $5000, which can not be afforded by just anybody. This type of variety is highly in demand and Donatella is keen to produce more of these items under this fashion line.
Versace Jeans Couture concentrates on informal wear, it is casual clothing which caters to a different class of people who are comfortable in wearing something casual. These include High-end Denims and Gianni Versace Printed shirts. These come in huge variety and are easily available in stores and that too at affordable prices! This fashion label has around more than 56 boutiques with flagship stores. It has around 1800 multi-brand stores where the brand is on sale with other famous brands even the Online shops. The Versace Sports wear includes active wear and accessories with the brand name featured on it.
Doantella has not only performed exceptionally well in the men's collection but has also shown a remarkable performance in the women fashion clothing and accessories. She is strongly determined to give the best in women�s fashion. Her collection in this range has given a sexy, bold and an elegant look and thus enhanced the beauty of the lady. Versace fashionable clothing is widely supported by the a number of Class 1 celebrities and top models as it offers a huge variety of fashionable clothes that suit their needs.
Finally, Versace has developed an immense significance in the worlds fashion industry and has maintained its name from several years in the market. There are future trends set that will take Versace to heights never imagined!
About The Author
Looking for the most fashionable clothes that are well-known in the international market log in at zara clothing experience the world of fashion and know the famous fashion designers of the fashion world at h&m clothing, to explore the world of glamorous fashion designers at mordernights.com.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Fashion Bag Tips For 2009
By Bryan Halverson
Handbags have been in use for quite a long time as the fashionable accessory but their use in the modern times seems to have gathered quite a zeal and vigor as never before. They are an important tool simply because a handbag accentuates the user’s personality. Apart from these handbags used as a fashion accessory they are also commonly used as a status symbol by many ladies.
Numerous shelves in the shopping malls can be seen sporting a wide range of these hand bags ranging in styles and designs, shapes and sizes. So a little care must be exercised before purchasing these trendy items and it must at all time be remembered that THERE IS MORE TO THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE .
Some of the handy tips that would allow you to select a suitable hand bag for your body type are given here.
The shiny and cheap quality material made handbags must be avoided without a doubt as they are not long lasting. Similarly the zips and other items must be colored in accordance with the color of hand bag.
Buying from authorized dealers usually saves a lot of trouble as they most of the time comes with a warranty.
The quality of material used in the handbags can be checked simply by placing it on a smooth surface. a good quality material neither sags nor collapses under its weight and this firmness can be used to check its quality.
Stitching of the hand bag should also be considered and checked carefully as improper stitching would destroy the shape of the bag.
It must be bore in that a relation between the body shape of user and the size of hand bag exist. For instance a thin shapely girl must use a close fitting small bag.
Above all the purpose for which the bag is bought must clear. Remember that the trendy and the fashion hand bags must NEVER be used as shopping bags.
These were some of the tips which have to be generally considered before purchasing a hand bag. If a hand bag is purchased as a fashion accessory than the ongoing fashion trends need to be checked too.
Since the celebrities and the divas are the fashion icons and the trend setter for the majority, the latest trends popular in hand bags for the year 2009 will be noted by discussing the stars and celebrities.
A bag which is making news in the fashion circle this season and is attaining such level of fame that it is not like to disappear from the fashion scene for a long time is Yves Saint Laurent’s Muse. It is supported by the young stars like Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton and Jessica Alba.
The much pursued Cowboy look wouldn’t be seen now but bags having fringes are still somewhat en vogue. The top handle bags or the classic lady like bags are still in fashion.
For women looking for new trends in handbags, 2009 offers plenty of styles to choose from.
About The Author
For those in need of a fashion bag wholesaler, visit http://www.bagsfirstdirect.co.uk today. They offer a wide variety of wholesale leather bags as well as many other accessories.
Handbags have been in use for quite a long time as the fashionable accessory but their use in the modern times seems to have gathered quite a zeal and vigor as never before. They are an important tool simply because a handbag accentuates the user’s personality. Apart from these handbags used as a fashion accessory they are also commonly used as a status symbol by many ladies.
Numerous shelves in the shopping malls can be seen sporting a wide range of these hand bags ranging in styles and designs, shapes and sizes. So a little care must be exercised before purchasing these trendy items and it must at all time be remembered that THERE IS MORE TO THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE .
Some of the handy tips that would allow you to select a suitable hand bag for your body type are given here.
The shiny and cheap quality material made handbags must be avoided without a doubt as they are not long lasting. Similarly the zips and other items must be colored in accordance with the color of hand bag.
Buying from authorized dealers usually saves a lot of trouble as they most of the time comes with a warranty.
The quality of material used in the handbags can be checked simply by placing it on a smooth surface. a good quality material neither sags nor collapses under its weight and this firmness can be used to check its quality.
Stitching of the hand bag should also be considered and checked carefully as improper stitching would destroy the shape of the bag.
It must be bore in that a relation between the body shape of user and the size of hand bag exist. For instance a thin shapely girl must use a close fitting small bag.
Above all the purpose for which the bag is bought must clear. Remember that the trendy and the fashion hand bags must NEVER be used as shopping bags.
These were some of the tips which have to be generally considered before purchasing a hand bag. If a hand bag is purchased as a fashion accessory than the ongoing fashion trends need to be checked too.
Since the celebrities and the divas are the fashion icons and the trend setter for the majority, the latest trends popular in hand bags for the year 2009 will be noted by discussing the stars and celebrities.
A bag which is making news in the fashion circle this season and is attaining such level of fame that it is not like to disappear from the fashion scene for a long time is Yves Saint Laurent’s Muse. It is supported by the young stars like Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton and Jessica Alba.
The much pursued Cowboy look wouldn’t be seen now but bags having fringes are still somewhat en vogue. The top handle bags or the classic lady like bags are still in fashion.
For women looking for new trends in handbags, 2009 offers plenty of styles to choose from.
About The Author
For those in need of a fashion bag wholesaler, visit http://www.bagsfirstdirect.co.uk today. They offer a wide variety of wholesale leather bags as well as many other accessories.
Designer Handbags
By Rateempire
You are all dressed up and looking dashing but you think it lacks that little something that we called ' the cherry on top'. Wondering what it is? What can compliment your outfit better than anything else other than a handbag? Designer handbags come in different shapes, sizes and style to match any occasion. Whether you are on your way to the market, formal dinner parties or even to your work place.
Designer handbags are exclusive and are consistently able to strike an incredible balance between innovation and yet classic design in all of their creations. Handbags are sure next to diamonds and may be shoes, are a women's best friend.
Designer handbags not only can create a fashion statement but are also receptacles of your prized possessions. Handbags are often used to express your moods, individuality, style and status. These handbags although not worn to the body like bloused, skirts and jeans but their shapes and styles may be flattering or unflattering to you. Believe it or not, handbags can do wonders to your figure; it can actually add or lessen the weight that you appear to carry.
There are a number of varieties of designer handbags that you can choose from to best suit your figure. Say, closefitting handbags, which can are fit right under the arm at your chest level are best suited if you have a slim figure. Whereas, people with big arms and a little plump may not be such a good choice as short handles will only emphasize your figure. Most women look great with handbags and shoulder bags that end in mid-torso as it flatters the waist.
Designer handbags may be a little costly but worth the penny. A good handbag will withstand the test of time. The majority of the designer handbags are designed and created in leather. There are many types of leather, each with its own characteristics, alligator, rawhide, ostrich, deer, lamb, moose, and even swine. The process at which a handbag is treated, cured and shaped is extremely important to the life of the handbags. Obviously, designer handbags will use higher quality of leather.
When looking for a handbag there are certain factors that you need to take into consideration. Finding a reasonable and acceptable price is often frightening. But you got to know that you get what you pay for. The compartments of the handbag are also one of the vital features. Some like many compartments some like only a few, some like small and some like big. Designer handbags try to keep the variety of their potential customers in mind.
Designer handbags are sure to satisfy your needs and are worth it. Each and every handbag is potentially unique and made gives you the sense of uniqueness and style. Be aware with what you really want before you purchase. Know your budget and what you are looking for. Make a list of the options you just cannot live without and get the one that satisfies you the most. Designer handbags will satisfy important factors like functionality, durability, versatility and yet stylish and trendy.
You are all dressed up and looking dashing but you think it lacks that little something that we called ' the cherry on top'. Wondering what it is? What can compliment your outfit better than anything else other than a handbag? Designer handbags come in different shapes, sizes and style to match any occasion. Whether you are on your way to the market, formal dinner parties or even to your work place.
Variety of handbags including discount handbags from brands like Chanel, Louis Vuiton, Hermes, Kate Spade, Gucci, Christian Dior, Coach etc. Super low prices for all your handbag needs. For more information please visit Designer handbags
You are all dressed up and looking dashing but you think it lacks that little something that we called ' the cherry on top'. Wondering what it is? What can compliment your outfit better than anything else other than a handbag? Designer handbags come in different shapes, sizes and style to match any occasion. Whether you are on your way to the market, formal dinner parties or even to your work place.
Designer handbags are exclusive and are consistently able to strike an incredible balance between innovation and yet classic design in all of their creations. Handbags are sure next to diamonds and may be shoes, are a women's best friend.
Designer handbags not only can create a fashion statement but are also receptacles of your prized possessions. Handbags are often used to express your moods, individuality, style and status. These handbags although not worn to the body like bloused, skirts and jeans but their shapes and styles may be flattering or unflattering to you. Believe it or not, handbags can do wonders to your figure; it can actually add or lessen the weight that you appear to carry.
There are a number of varieties of designer handbags that you can choose from to best suit your figure. Say, closefitting handbags, which can are fit right under the arm at your chest level are best suited if you have a slim figure. Whereas, people with big arms and a little plump may not be such a good choice as short handles will only emphasize your figure. Most women look great with handbags and shoulder bags that end in mid-torso as it flatters the waist.
Designer handbags may be a little costly but worth the penny. A good handbag will withstand the test of time. The majority of the designer handbags are designed and created in leather. There are many types of leather, each with its own characteristics, alligator, rawhide, ostrich, deer, lamb, moose, and even swine. The process at which a handbag is treated, cured and shaped is extremely important to the life of the handbags. Obviously, designer handbags will use higher quality of leather.
When looking for a handbag there are certain factors that you need to take into consideration. Finding a reasonable and acceptable price is often frightening. But you got to know that you get what you pay for. The compartments of the handbag are also one of the vital features. Some like many compartments some like only a few, some like small and some like big. Designer handbags try to keep the variety of their potential customers in mind.
Designer handbags are sure to satisfy your needs and are worth it. Each and every handbag is potentially unique and made gives you the sense of uniqueness and style. Be aware with what you really want before you purchase. Know your budget and what you are looking for. Make a list of the options you just cannot live without and get the one that satisfies you the most. Designer handbags will satisfy important factors like functionality, durability, versatility and yet stylish and trendy.
You are all dressed up and looking dashing but you think it lacks that little something that we called ' the cherry on top'. Wondering what it is? What can compliment your outfit better than anything else other than a handbag? Designer handbags come in different shapes, sizes and style to match any occasion. Whether you are on your way to the market, formal dinner parties or even to your work place.
Variety of handbags including discount handbags from brands like Chanel, Louis Vuiton, Hermes, Kate Spade, Gucci, Christian Dior, Coach etc. Super low prices for all your handbag needs. For more information please visit Designer handbags
How To Become A Professional Fashion Photographer
By Aditya
Photography is the process, activity and art of creating still or moving pictures by recording radiation on a sensitive medium, such as a film, or an electronic sensor. Light patterns reflected or emitted from objects activate a sensitive chemical or electronic sensor during a timed exposure, usually through a photographic lens in a device known as a camera that also stores the resulting information chemically or electronically. Photography has many uses for business, science, art and pleasure.
The word "photography" comes from the Greek φώς (phos) "light" + γραφίς (graphis) "stylus", "paintbrush" or γραφή (graphê) "representation by means of lines" or "drawing", together meaning "drawing with light." Traditionally, the products of photography have been called negatives and photographs, commonly shortened to photos.
How to become a fashion photographer and Professional photographer
A career in fashion photography doesn't have to be an impossible dream. With its huge audience, high pay-checks and glamorous international lifestyle, fashion photography may seem like one of the world's most sought-after professions. But for every fashion photographer who makes it through the door of a top magazine, a thousand others find their niche fashion advertising, art photography, celebrity portraiture or even paparazzi work to make a living.
Photographer Sydney Eva Mueller agree that breaking into the industry can be hard. But they have some tips for beginners on setting up a portfolio, submitting work to magazine picture editors, choosing the right photo agency and even getting shown in a gallery.
Setting Up A Portfolio
A photographer's most important tool is her portfolio, and this is particularly true for beginners who don't have an established reputation.
"Having been around, I know how hard it is to get in the door," says Allure magazine photo editor Clio McNicholl, who receives around 50 unsolicited portfolios a month. Conde Nast's Allure, with a monthly circulation of almost 900,000, is a prime target for beginners wanting to get their work seen. "If I don't know who the person is, I ask them to send me some promotional material. Generally I only see people who are coming with a direct recommendation from somebody I know," she says.
Many photographers find that websites offer an inexpensive way to showcase a relatively large quantity of images. Eva Mueller a Munich-born fashion and beauty photographer who has been living and working in Manhattan for ten years, points out that computer editing is also a method of keeping down retouching and printing costs.
But despite the medium's advantages, most industry professionals will still need to see an old-fashioned book before they hire you. By all means use the web as your calling card, but have something to show them when they call you in for a meeting.
Many fashion photographers find the sharp, bright imaging of 4 x 5" transparencies show off their work to best effect. Tear-sheets (literally, pages ripped from a magazine) are great if you've been published, but good quality, 8 x 10" prints are also OK. Have at least 20 in your book, and be prepared to leave them for at least a week.
"I like to see a common thread throughout the book," says Clio McNicholl, who says she can tell within three images whether she likes a photographer's style. "Tell a story: not necessarily having all the pictures relating to each other, but I like to have some sort of sense at the end of it that I've seen that photographer's personality come through in the pictures."
The images you choose to showcase in your portfolio should be thematically linked to the job you're trying to get – still-lifes or product shots if you're going for an advertising gig, for example. But also throw in one or two other images to demonstrate your range. Strong portraits are always a safe bet, as they tend to stay in the mind of the viewer.
Once you've got your portfolio together, the next challenge is to get the picture editor to use you.
Picking Your Picture Editor
"Most people who cold call me haven't done their research, which is the world's biggest mistake," says Clio McNicholl. "The single biggest thing that people should do is their research. They should know what the magazine does, and see how you can apply that to what you do. And they should at least know the name of the photo editor."
When you submit work to photo editors, remember that you're "showing" rather than "selling". Editors almost never buy the specific image they see before them; they're looking for a photographer who can execute future commissions. You'll need to be persistent in sending out your work, and ruthless in editing what you choose to show.
The best way to grab an editor's attention is to show previously published work. But there's a down-side. "Because there's such an over-supply of photographers, a lot of magazines really take advantage of that fact," says Eva Mueller. "Some mags have a decent budget, but a lot of magazines just cover your expenses, they don't pay for your time or anything. And a lot of magazines don't pay at all." McNicholl says Allure's rates start at $350 a day for unknown photographers, up to $130,000 for a fashion spread.
A photograph is a document just as much as an article or an essay, and picture editors are looking for concise images which clearly communicate an idea or an emotion. Celebrity portraiture, for example, should reveal an aspect of the subject's character, preferably one that is in harmony with the accompanying written profile. Women's magazines all over the world buy hundred of stock shots every month – typically young women having fun with their boyfriends, hanging out with friends, or maybe moping home alone with their stuffed toys – all of which express a sentiment commonly dealt with in feature articles. If your work speaks clearly, you'll stand a much better chance with picture editors than with vague or ambiguous images.
When you're submitting your work, remember:
• Call the magazine ahead and get the name of the person to whose attention the submission should be marked
• Label everything with your name and telephone number
• Send working prints or transparencies, not originals
• Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you want the work back
Eve Mueller has one last warning about dealing with magazines: "Another bad thing is not getting paid in ages – months and months and months. Some clients really take advantage of the fact that there are so many photographers out there: they make you pay for the whole shoot, they alter your pictures and don't tell you when they drop the story. Sometimes they're just really disrespectful toward the photographer."
There is a way to avoid having to deal with photo editors, however: and that's to have a photo agency do the selling on your behalf.
Finding A Photo Agent
Photo agencies exist to liaise with clients and sell photographers' work on their behalf. They benefit everyone from start-out photographers, who may not have many industry contacts, to seasoned professionals, who are too busy to take care of business dealings themselves.
"First of all, it's vital to be known, and an agency is in daily contact with clients and publications," she says. "That's the best way for a young photographer to be able to have a connection with them, because usually the photographer is busy taking pictures, and the agent is busy talking to clients. And that's the way it should be. Usually the photographer doesn't have enough time to take care of everything."
Agencies can also re-sell your work in several different markets, acting as a mini publicist and giving career advice. There are so many agencies – and so many photographers – that Cappelletti says it's important to research which one may be right for you before making an approach.
"The young photographer has to understand their target, in terms of their personal goals the direction the photographer wants to take," she says. "Everyone is different."
Agents recommend treating your first contact with them as seriously as if it were a job interview. You should also consider whether they already represent someone whose style is significantly similar to your own – there may not be enough work for both of you, and the other photographer could resent the competition.
A photo agency is not the only place that can sell your work. If you're more interested in concentrating on your personal vision than taking commercial work, you can also considering exhibiting in a fine art photography gallery
Getting A Gallery
Once derided as a scientific curiosity with no artistic value, photographs are now one of the hottest growth areas in the international fine art market.
While gelatin silver prints are the staple of fine art photography, you'll find a healthy interest both in contemporary photos using antique methods (such as Chuck Close's daguerreotypes), as well as modern printing methods, including Cibachromes and C-prints.
Like any artistic undertaking, art photography is unlikely to pay you a living wage for many years. Although many artists sell their work directly from the Internet, critical attention and the strongest sales come from a relationship with a Gallery. While there is now at least one photo gallery in most major cities, the center of the world art photo market is Sydney. Sydney boasts around 100 galleries dealing in photographic prints, and prices there tend to be strongest. A comprehensive list of Sydney and international galleries is available at the websites of the bimonthly listings guide Photography in Sydney , as well as the Association of International Art Photography Dealers.
Before approaching any gallery with your work, you should telephone and request details of their submissions policy. Many galleries review new work only at set times of the year, and even to get in the door of some places you will need the recommendation of somebody known to the gallery directors. (Sometimes it helps to drop the name of a well-known critic or museum director, even if your connection to them is tenuous.)
If a gallery is interested in taking you on as an artist, they'll probably want to see a representative sampling of your work. Even if you have one or two knock-out images in your portfolio, a gallery will want to know that you have a mature body of work with a consistent standard throughout. Remember that many artists join a gallery simply by having their work go into the back-room inventory, where it will be shown to specific collectors, rather than having a public exhibition. Not everyone is offered a solo show.
The most important thing to remember about working with a gallery is to maintain a proper business relationship. Every print you give to a gallery should be inventoried by you – not them – and you should understand when and how you can expect payment in the even of a sale. Industry standard is that the artist receives 50% of the retail price of a photo.
You should also discuss whether you are free to have relationships with other galleries, or if your gallery expects exclusivity. If you have a New York gallery, for example, but then arrange to have a show in Los Angeles, sometimes the New York gallery will expect a cut (typically 10%). However, in return for that, they are expected to deal with details like paperwork and shipping. Each relationship between artist and gallery is unique, and you should get as much as possible in writing at the beginning.
Photography is the process, activity and art of creating still or moving pictures by recording radiation on a sensitive medium, such as a film, or an electronic sensor. Light patterns reflected or emitted from objects activate a sensitive chemical or electronic sensor during a timed exposure, usually through a photographic lens in a device known as a camera that also stores the resulting information chemically or electronically. Photography has many uses for business, science, art and pleasure.
The word "photography" comes from the Greek φώς (phos) "light" + γραφίς (graphis) "stylus", "paintbrush" or γραφή (graphê) "representation by means of lines" or "drawing", together meaning "drawing with light." Traditionally, the products of photography have been called negatives and photographs, commonly shortened to photos.
How to become a fashion photographer and Professional photographer
A career in fashion photography doesn't have to be an impossible dream. With its huge audience, high pay-checks and glamorous international lifestyle, fashion photography may seem like one of the world's most sought-after professions. But for every fashion photographer who makes it through the door of a top magazine, a thousand others find their niche fashion advertising, art photography, celebrity portraiture or even paparazzi work to make a living.
Photographer Sydney Eva Mueller agree that breaking into the industry can be hard. But they have some tips for beginners on setting up a portfolio, submitting work to magazine picture editors, choosing the right photo agency and even getting shown in a gallery.
Setting Up A Portfolio
A photographer's most important tool is her portfolio, and this is particularly true for beginners who don't have an established reputation.
"Having been around, I know how hard it is to get in the door," says Allure magazine photo editor Clio McNicholl, who receives around 50 unsolicited portfolios a month. Conde Nast's Allure, with a monthly circulation of almost 900,000, is a prime target for beginners wanting to get their work seen. "If I don't know who the person is, I ask them to send me some promotional material. Generally I only see people who are coming with a direct recommendation from somebody I know," she says.
Many photographers find that websites offer an inexpensive way to showcase a relatively large quantity of images. Eva Mueller a Munich-born fashion and beauty photographer who has been living and working in Manhattan for ten years, points out that computer editing is also a method of keeping down retouching and printing costs.
But despite the medium's advantages, most industry professionals will still need to see an old-fashioned book before they hire you. By all means use the web as your calling card, but have something to show them when they call you in for a meeting.
Many fashion photographers find the sharp, bright imaging of 4 x 5" transparencies show off their work to best effect. Tear-sheets (literally, pages ripped from a magazine) are great if you've been published, but good quality, 8 x 10" prints are also OK. Have at least 20 in your book, and be prepared to leave them for at least a week.
"I like to see a common thread throughout the book," says Clio McNicholl, who says she can tell within three images whether she likes a photographer's style. "Tell a story: not necessarily having all the pictures relating to each other, but I like to have some sort of sense at the end of it that I've seen that photographer's personality come through in the pictures."
The images you choose to showcase in your portfolio should be thematically linked to the job you're trying to get – still-lifes or product shots if you're going for an advertising gig, for example. But also throw in one or two other images to demonstrate your range. Strong portraits are always a safe bet, as they tend to stay in the mind of the viewer.
Once you've got your portfolio together, the next challenge is to get the picture editor to use you.
Picking Your Picture Editor
"Most people who cold call me haven't done their research, which is the world's biggest mistake," says Clio McNicholl. "The single biggest thing that people should do is their research. They should know what the magazine does, and see how you can apply that to what you do. And they should at least know the name of the photo editor."
When you submit work to photo editors, remember that you're "showing" rather than "selling". Editors almost never buy the specific image they see before them; they're looking for a photographer who can execute future commissions. You'll need to be persistent in sending out your work, and ruthless in editing what you choose to show.
The best way to grab an editor's attention is to show previously published work. But there's a down-side. "Because there's such an over-supply of photographers, a lot of magazines really take advantage of that fact," says Eva Mueller. "Some mags have a decent budget, but a lot of magazines just cover your expenses, they don't pay for your time or anything. And a lot of magazines don't pay at all." McNicholl says Allure's rates start at $350 a day for unknown photographers, up to $130,000 for a fashion spread.
A photograph is a document just as much as an article or an essay, and picture editors are looking for concise images which clearly communicate an idea or an emotion. Celebrity portraiture, for example, should reveal an aspect of the subject's character, preferably one that is in harmony with the accompanying written profile. Women's magazines all over the world buy hundred of stock shots every month – typically young women having fun with their boyfriends, hanging out with friends, or maybe moping home alone with their stuffed toys – all of which express a sentiment commonly dealt with in feature articles. If your work speaks clearly, you'll stand a much better chance with picture editors than with vague or ambiguous images.
When you're submitting your work, remember:
• Call the magazine ahead and get the name of the person to whose attention the submission should be marked
• Label everything with your name and telephone number
• Send working prints or transparencies, not originals
• Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you want the work back
Eve Mueller has one last warning about dealing with magazines: "Another bad thing is not getting paid in ages – months and months and months. Some clients really take advantage of the fact that there are so many photographers out there: they make you pay for the whole shoot, they alter your pictures and don't tell you when they drop the story. Sometimes they're just really disrespectful toward the photographer."
There is a way to avoid having to deal with photo editors, however: and that's to have a photo agency do the selling on your behalf.
Finding A Photo Agent
Photo agencies exist to liaise with clients and sell photographers' work on their behalf. They benefit everyone from start-out photographers, who may not have many industry contacts, to seasoned professionals, who are too busy to take care of business dealings themselves.
"First of all, it's vital to be known, and an agency is in daily contact with clients and publications," she says. "That's the best way for a young photographer to be able to have a connection with them, because usually the photographer is busy taking pictures, and the agent is busy talking to clients. And that's the way it should be. Usually the photographer doesn't have enough time to take care of everything."
Agencies can also re-sell your work in several different markets, acting as a mini publicist and giving career advice. There are so many agencies – and so many photographers – that Cappelletti says it's important to research which one may be right for you before making an approach.
"The young photographer has to understand their target, in terms of their personal goals the direction the photographer wants to take," she says. "Everyone is different."
Agents recommend treating your first contact with them as seriously as if it were a job interview. You should also consider whether they already represent someone whose style is significantly similar to your own – there may not be enough work for both of you, and the other photographer could resent the competition.
A photo agency is not the only place that can sell your work. If you're more interested in concentrating on your personal vision than taking commercial work, you can also considering exhibiting in a fine art photography gallery
Getting A Gallery
Once derided as a scientific curiosity with no artistic value, photographs are now one of the hottest growth areas in the international fine art market.
While gelatin silver prints are the staple of fine art photography, you'll find a healthy interest both in contemporary photos using antique methods (such as Chuck Close's daguerreotypes), as well as modern printing methods, including Cibachromes and C-prints.
Like any artistic undertaking, art photography is unlikely to pay you a living wage for many years. Although many artists sell their work directly from the Internet, critical attention and the strongest sales come from a relationship with a Gallery. While there is now at least one photo gallery in most major cities, the center of the world art photo market is Sydney. Sydney boasts around 100 galleries dealing in photographic prints, and prices there tend to be strongest. A comprehensive list of Sydney and international galleries is available at the websites of the bimonthly listings guide Photography in Sydney , as well as the Association of International Art Photography Dealers.
Before approaching any gallery with your work, you should telephone and request details of their submissions policy. Many galleries review new work only at set times of the year, and even to get in the door of some places you will need the recommendation of somebody known to the gallery directors. (Sometimes it helps to drop the name of a well-known critic or museum director, even if your connection to them is tenuous.)
If a gallery is interested in taking you on as an artist, they'll probably want to see a representative sampling of your work. Even if you have one or two knock-out images in your portfolio, a gallery will want to know that you have a mature body of work with a consistent standard throughout. Remember that many artists join a gallery simply by having their work go into the back-room inventory, where it will be shown to specific collectors, rather than having a public exhibition. Not everyone is offered a solo show.
The most important thing to remember about working with a gallery is to maintain a proper business relationship. Every print you give to a gallery should be inventoried by you – not them – and you should understand when and how you can expect payment in the even of a sale. Industry standard is that the artist receives 50% of the retail price of a photo.
You should also discuss whether you are free to have relationships with other galleries, or if your gallery expects exclusivity. If you have a New York gallery, for example, but then arrange to have a show in Los Angeles, sometimes the New York gallery will expect a cut (typically 10%). However, in return for that, they are expected to deal with details like paperwork and shipping. Each relationship between artist and gallery is unique, and you should get as much as possible in writing at the beginning.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
