As a photographer specialising in beauty, hair, and fashion portraiture, Brian Rolfe brings a refreshingly straightforward approach to fashion portraits. His method: pick a strong model, bring a clear idea, lean on simplicity—and you often walk away with images that feel spontaneous, elegant and true to life. Here are his ten key tips for creating fashion‑portrait shots that resonate.
1. Build a Mood Board
Start by creating a mood board that gives your team (even if it’s just you and the model) a shared vision. This isn’t about rigidly replicating one image—but offering a unified direction. If you’re unsure of your exact style, find a photograph that approximates your goal and use it as a springboard.
2. Cast the Right Model for the Style
Choosing the right model for your concept is critical. A “girl‑next‑door” face may not suit an edgy, editorial look. Match the model’s attitude, presence and type with the aesthetic you’re chasing—otherwise the final image risks feeling disconnected.
3. Remember — Models Are People
Models aren’t props. Taking time to chat, relax the atmosphere and build rapport makes a real difference. When your model feels at ease, the shoot becomes more natural and the images reflect authentic expression.
4. Avoid Over‑Directing
Let creativity breathe. While you may begin with a pose or direction, allowing the model some freedom often yields unexpected magic. Fashion portraits benefit when the subject is given licence to explore—and when you’re open to capture what they bring.
5. Don’t Put Your Camera Down
When the model is in front of you, keep shooting. A pause might mean missing a candid moment with potential to become a standout frame. As Brian says: “I’ve done it and you will kick yourself.”
6. Minimal Crew, Maximum Impact
You don’t always need a full team, extensive hair/makeup or elaborate styling. Some of the best portraits happen with nothing more than the model, basic wardrobe (sometimes just what they brought) and your camera. Simplicity often brings focus back to the subject.
7. Go Simple with Lighting
Great lighting doesn’t require an arsenal of modifiers or multiple light sources. A single light or a clean use of daylight is often all you need. The goal is flattering, direct and uncomplicated illumination.
8. Experiment with Angles
Move around the model. Shoot from the floor. Change your vantage point. Variation in angle can bring fresh perspective to even familiar faces or settings. The key is to keep exploring until you find that different angle that elevates the shot.
9. Embrace Fresh or No Makeup
By keeping makeup minimal—or shooting without any—you achieve a realism that complements fashion portraiture beautifully. A model presented as a near‑blank canvas often yields images that feel honest and bold.
10. Keep Styling Understated
When the wardrobe is minimal, everything else naturally becomes the focus: pose, light, atmosphere, model’s expression. Think basics—denim, t‑shirts, simple tops, underwear—and avoid letting elaborate styling overshadow the portrait’s intent. Prepare a few items or ask the model to bring something straightforward if you don’t have a stylist.
Final Word
Fashion portraiture doesn’t always have to involve huge crews, complex lighting or crowded sets. By focusing on the model, letting ideas breathe, simplifying every element and remaining open to the unexpected, you can achieve striking results with ease and authenticity.
That’s the essence of Brian Rolfe’s philosophy and your shortcut to compelling fashion portrait work.
