Everything you need to know about styling for photography

1. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Presented
by
Elizabeth John
Fashion Stylist, Fashion & Accessories
Designer,
Portfolio Mentor, Graphic Designer
&
Artist

2. TOPICS
• INTRODUCTIONTO STYLING
• COLOUR, PRINT, PATTERN,TEXTURE
• PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
• INSPIRATION, IDEATION,THEME, MOOD
• FACTORS TO CONSIDER FOR A SHOOT
• STYLING FOR FOOD
• STYLING FOR FASHION
• STYLING FOR INTERIORS
• STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
• STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
• PRACTICAL: SHOOT DRIVE-THROUGH

3. • DEFINITION
• DEIFFERENCE BETWEEN DESIGN & STYLE
• THE NEED FOR STYLING
• STYLING & STYLIST
• STYLING AVENUES
INTRODUCTION TO STYLING

4. DEFINITION
• The way in which something is said, done, expressed,
or performed
• It is a manner or way in which something is
presented
• The combination of distinctive features belonging to
a culture, heritage, literary or artistic expression,
characterizing a particular person, group, school, or
era
• A quality of imagination and individuality expressed
in one's actions and tastes (choices)
• Style =Taste (Choice)

5. DEFINITION
• It has a distinctive appearance, typically determined by
the principles according to which something is
designed
• It is independent of time
• It is the process of putting together, assorting, mixing
and matching different elements with reference to a
previously selected theme or inspiration
• It requires one to be a skilled observer of the world at
large and posses a keen eye for detail
• It is specific and directed towards a pre-determined
brief

6. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
DESIGN & STYLE
DESIGN STYLE
1. Design has to do with the basic layout of a
product with its core functionality and user
experience
2. It creates value for customers in terms of its
features and in-built components
3. Design considers the functioning, purpose and
lifespan of the product
4. It is executed prior to styling of the product
1. Style has to do with the outer look of a
product
2. It creates important aesthetic value for
consumers
3. Style considers the overall aesthetic
appeal of a product or story
4. It is executed either during designing or
/and post-designing of the product

7. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
DESIGN & STYLE

8. DIFFERENCE
BETWEEN
DESIGN & STYLE

9. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
DESIGN & STYLE

10. THE NEED FOR STYLING
• Styling is essential during design or/and post design as
man is a visual being
• Due to this nature, he procures goods not only as per
design and functionality, but as per style and overall
aesthetics as well
• Therefore, styling plays a huge role in marketing a given
product, notion or story
• Everything we see around us, from billboards, hoardings,
posters, window displays, shop layouts, arrangement of
various items within shops, magazine covers, ad
campaigns, pictures or dishes, etc all these cohesive
displays have been put together by a Stylist

11. THE NEED FOR STYLING

12. THE NEED FOR STYLING

13. STYLING & STYLIST
1. Styling is probably one of the most
misunderstood professions of all
2.The process of executing the tasks of a
Stylist is called Styling
• 1.A stylist is an expert (person) who uses art
and science to make people and objects look
good in order to make a statement
• A Stylist defines trends, creates looks, innovates,
has unique personal style and has a good sense
of aesthetics and is a keen observer of things
around
STYLING STYLIST

14. STYLING AVENUES
FREELANCE
PHOTO STUDIO
CINEMA/THEATRE
PRODUCTION/ADVERTISING
CATALOUG/LOOKBOOK
CATWALK
CELEBRITY
PERSONAL
PERSONAL SHOPPER
IMAGE CONSULTANT
E-COMMERCE
RETAIL/VISUAL MERCHANDISER
MAGAZINE
FASHION
FOOD & BEVERAGE
LIFESTYLE
INTERIORS
PRODUCT

15. COLOUR, PRINT, PATTERN, TEXTURE
• COLOUR
• COLOUR HARMONY
• COLOUR COMBINATIONS
• PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE

16. • The Colour Wheel is the starting point to demonstrate
the relationship between colours
• The relative positions of colours is an indication of how
they will work together
• Sir Isaac Newton developed the first circular diagram of
colours in 1666
• Since then, scientists and artists have studied and
designed numerous variations of this concept
COLOUR

17. COLOUR
• The ColourTriangle has 3 Primary
colours, namely:- Red,Yellow, Blue
• The Secondary colours represent the
mix of the 2 primaries on either side:-
Red +Yellow= Orange, Red+ Blue=
Violet, Blue+Yellow= Green
• The remainingTertiary colours
represent the mix of a Primary colour
and the Secondary colour directly
opposite, resulting in a less saturated,
more neutral colour

18. COLOUR
• Hue is another word for colour
• There are 3 types of hues:- Warm, Cool and Neutral
• Warm hues are found in the sun and fire
• They are known as advancing hues as they create an
illusion of moving forward
• They tend to make shapes and objects appear larger, eg:
red, yellow, orange
• Cool hues are found in the water and sky
• Cool hues are receding colours and make the object
appear smaller, less important and further away, eg: green,
blue, violet

19. COLOUR
• Neutral Hues have low saturation, therefore are not
bright or intense, like gray-beige bark textures
• The soft faded greens and silver- grays are other
examples of neutral hues
• Pure, brilliant colours can be mixed with their
complements to create neutral colours

20. COLOUR
• VALUE OF COLOUR- The lightness or darkness of a
colour is called its value
• Lightened values are tints, darkened values are shades
and medium value colours are described as midtones
• Value can be changed by adding white, black or gray
to a colour
• A variation in the light to dark arrangement or design
is called a “value pattern”

21. COLOUR
• SATURATION- The intensity of a colour is described as
saturation or chroma
• Saturation is determined by how little or how much gray a
colour contains
• In its purest form a hue is at maximum chroma, these are
colours that are not grayed
• The grayer or more neutral a colour is, the less saturated it is
• Less saturated colours- are soft, muted, subtle, toned-down,
misty, dull or dusty
• More saturated colours- clear, pure, brilliant,bright, rich, bold

22. COLOUR HARMONY
• Harmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of parts
• Be it music, poetry, color, or even an ice cream sundae
• In visual experiences, harmony is something that is pleasing to
the eye
• It engages the viewer and it creates an inner sense of order, a
balance in the visual experience
• Color harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order
• In summary, extreme unity in colour leads to under-stimulation,
extreme complexity leads to over-stimulation
• Harmony is a dynamic equilibrium

23. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
• There are 7 basic colour schemes derived from the colour wheel
• This serves as an easy start to mastering the art of mixing and matching colours while styling
• They are:-
• MONOCHROMATIC
• ANALOGOUS
• COMPLEMENTARY
• SPLIT COMPLEMENTARY
• DOUBLE COMPLEMENTARY
• TRIAD
• ACHROMATIC

24. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
MONOCHROMATIC

25. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
ANALOGOUS

26. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
COMPLIMENTARY

27. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
SPLIT COMPLIMENTARY

28. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
DOUBLE COMPLIMENTARY OR TETRAD

29. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
TRIAD

30. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
ACHROMATIC

31. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
CONTRAST & COLOUR
• Contrast is how one color stands apart from another
• It is what makes text or objects distinguishable from the background
• High contrast is when colors easily stand apart from each other
• Low contrast is when they don’t easily stand apart from each other
• People assume a difference in color is what creates contrast, but that’s
not true
• One might have two colors that are completely different but have no
contrast at all because their tone is the same
• To test out color contrast, turn them into grayscale and review their
contrast

32. COLOUR COMBINATIONS
• Colour combinations are affected by a number of criteria such as-
• The borders they are confined within
• The shape or form they exist and co-exist in, the print, texture or pattern
they are assembled within,
• The tint, shade, tone, hue and saturation of the combined colours and thus
an occurrence of a balance among them
• Thus there are no hard and fast rules to colour combinations as it is solely
based on perception of the colours, doctrines of taste which vary from
culture to culture, artistic evaluations and stylistic trends

33. PRINT
• PRINT- Adding a single
print or a combination of
prints adds detail and
aesthetic to any
photograph

34. PRINT

35. PATTERN
• PATTERN- One of the simplest ways to
produce a striking image is by filling the entire
frame with a strong pattern

36. PATTERN

37. TEXTURE
• Textures surround us, on every object or surface
• Zoom in closely enough on almost anything and it will
start to look really interesting
• The trick is to decide exactly what level of
magnification creates the most effective image
• Remind yourself to point the camera at subjects you
wouldn’t ordinarily pay attention to: even surfaces that
from a distance appear ugly or dirty can be revealed as
startling,and even beautiful

38. TEXTURE

39. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS
• Mixing prints & patterns can be tricky
• Therefore, it takes practise and a few basic
tricks to master the art of mixing and matching
various prints, patterns and textures while
styling for photography

40. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS
TIP 1: GROUPING OF PATTERNS
• Keep Pattern 1 as a strong
statement, the pattern with the
largest scale of print
• Keep Pattern 2 possessing a couple of the
same colors as the first pattern, but half the
scale
• Keep Pattern 3 as a complementary colour
or neutral textured piece in a smaller scale

41. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS

42. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS
TIP 2: COLOUR INTENSITY
• Stay with the same color tones and intensities
• Veer away from mixing primary
colors with pastels, or muted ones
with jewel tones

43. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS

44. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS
TIP 3: SOLIDS & TEXTURES
• You don't want to put too many
patterns on top of each other
• Add in solids and textures to
balance and separate
• You need a place for the eye to rest

45. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS

46. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS
TIP 4: WHITE • Just make sure to keep the same white
throughout for a crisp, clean look
• White is a great base that brings everything
together and lets your patterns make a vibrant
statement

47. PRINTS, PATTERNS & TEXTURE
MIXING & MATCHING TRICKS

48. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
• INTRODUCTION
• DEFINITION
• TYPES OF PROPS AND BACKGROUNDS
• HOW TO CHOOSE THEMWISELY
• NEED FOR IT IN PHOTOGRAPHY

49. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
INTRODUCTION
• When styling for a photoshoot it is highly essential to consider the
props and backgrounds that will be used for the shoot
• Props and backgrounds are essential as they complete the overall
aesthetics of the shoot
• A shoot can take place in the studio or at a specified location
• Based on the location the background, frames and props for the same
will be planned and sourced
• One needs to consider the colour and scale of the backdrop or provide
your own draped fabrics, painted backdrops or textural surfaces

50. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
INTRODUCTION

51. PROPS DEFINITION
• PROPS- are objects used by your talent, clients
or subjects
• The primary aim of props are to enhance the
realism of the shot
• They add a sense of ambiance or character to
the scene in addition to the clothing and the
rest of the set

52. PROPS DEFINITION

53. BACKGROUNDS DEFINITION
• BACKGROUND: In photography the background is the part of the
overall scene
• It’s behind the main subject of the photograph
• Therefore, it is considered secondary in importance to the subject
• Proper design and use of this background is crucial to photographic
success
• They can involve great artistry, grand constructions or be very simple
• Styling the subject and the theme with different contexts and colours to
the background creates an artistic imbalance and confuses viewers

54. BACKGROUNDS DEFINITION

55. TYPES OF PROPS

56. TYPES OF BACKGROUNDS

57. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
HOW TO CHOOSE THEM WISELY
• Some important pointers to keep in mind while choosing
props and backgrounds are:-
• CONSISTENCY– ensure props & backgrounds are in a
proper time or technology context
• Also make sure they are in character as well as right for
the location and cultural context

58. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
HOW TO CHOOSE THEM WISELY
• BUDGET- Don’t let your shoot become uneconomic
or a professional loss
• The most expensive items are not necessarily the best
under the camera

59. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
HOW TO CHOOSE THEM WISELY
• PLANING AHEAD- Planning a shoot is sometimes a
long process
• Often the best props are not easily available or need
special design
• You may also need to consider special licensing or
legal documentation, especially regarding weaponry or
machinery props
1
2
3
4

60. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
HOW TO CHOOSE THEM WISELY
• WISE USAGE- Consider how
your props are to be used
• Think about what they will look
like to your audience too
• Don’t forget to consider the
effect different types of light you
will have if artificially lighting the
scene

61. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
NEED FOR IT IN PHOTOGRAPHY
• In photography, a great shot comprises of multiple well-balanced elements
• They are:-
• SUBJECT: Be it a given product, dish, model etc, the prime focus is dedicated to this subject
• BACKGROUND: A well thought of background that goes along with the theme, mood, vibe,
purpose of the shoot and most importantly the subject, is essential
• LIGHTING: Based on the above two selected elements, it is important to consider the kind of
lighting apt for the shot on the whole (Natural or Artificial)
• PROPS:They support the above 3 elements and serve as a finishing element to the shoot.They
can be large in scale or small in scale, a single object or multiple objects
• All these elements when put together add an over-all aesthetic, character and charm to the shot

62. PROPS & BACKGROUNDS
NEED FOR IT IN PHOTOGRAPHY

63. INSPIRATION, IDEATION, MOOD
• INSPIRATION
• IDEATION
• MOOD

64. • An inspiration is someone or something that gives you ideas
to do something new and innovative
• It can be an idea that arises in the spur of a moment
• Or it can arise from vast in depth research into a specific
topic over a given period of time
• It is the starting point to any creative process
• Thus, it takes a keen observer to spot and identify various
platforms of inspiration
INSPIRATION

65. INSPIRATION
• The various sources of inspiration are:-
• ONLINE FASHION RESOURCES
• BLOGS
• MAGAZINES
• ONLINE MAGAZINES
• LIBRARIES, BOOKS & JOURNALS
• MUSEUMS & ART GALLERIES
• TRAVEL,TRIPS, EXPEDITIONS
• PERSONAL LIFE EXPERIENCES
• FLEA MARKETS & SECOND-HAND SHOPS
• RECYCLED GARMENT MANIPULATION
• ARCHITECTURE
• NATURE
• FILM,THEATRE & MUSIC
• STREET &YOUTH CULTURE
• NEWTECHNOLOGIES
• SUSTAINABILITY & ETHICS

66. IDEATION
• Once the inspiration is finalized it leads to
the ideation stage
• This stage is a process where the
inspiration is transformed into realistic and
tangible ideas to further implement for a
shoot
• It is the thought process that is undertaken
prior to planning for styling a shoot
• This stage documents data in the form of
pictures, sketches, artifacts, references, etc

67. IDEATION

68. IDEATION

69. MOOD
• Mood is the theme, concept or vibe generated
with the help of styling in order to narrate a
story
• Mood boards are created using a variety of
photographic images which serve as references
to generate the desired vibe
• Mood can be anything that sparks the creative
team’s intuition

70. • These can vary according to one’s imagination and
serves as appropriate inspirational material
• Research photos, both historical and current , may
be used to show the stylists creativity on how
literally one wishes to express the “mood”
• Fabric/colour swatches, garment pieces, props are
often included with research and tied into the
overall story of the photos, indicating both colour
sensitivity and coordination ability
MOOD

71. MOOD BOARDS

72. MOOD BOARDS

73. FACTORS TO CONSIDER FOR A SHOOT
• QUESTIONS- PURPOSE
• CREW/TEAM
• REFERENCES
• LOCATION & BACKGROUND
• LIGHTING- NATURAL / ARTIFICAL
• SUBJECT- LIVING/ NON-LIVING / STORY
• PROPS
• SOURCING
• EQUIPMENT- CAMERA, LENS,ADD ON’S
• EMERGENCY KIT

74. QUESTIONS
A FEW QUESTIONSTO ASK TOWARDS A SHOOT
• What are you trying to achieve?
• What is the purpose of the shoot? {Portfolio, Client, Brand,
Product}
• What is the ultimate purpose of the Styling & Photography?

75. • Are you conveying the correct
message according to your Market &
Design Research?
• Is it your intention to attract, shock,
inform or amuse?
• Have you given the photographer
enough time to sort out any special
equipment needs, such as lighting kit,
other equipment, etc
QUESTIONS

76. CREW/ TEAM
• A good crew and team is essential for a successful
shoot
• Depending on the purpose of the shoot, the team
would vary
• For a Fashion shoot, the team would consist of a
Hair & Make up Artist, Fashion Stylist, Designer,
Photographer and Editor & assistants
• On the other hand for a product shoot, the team
would consist of Designer, Stylist, Photographer and
Editor

77. REFERENCES
• Before a shoot it is important to document your references
• References comprises of your inspiration, ideation, mood and
overall feel
• Categories of references are:- photography, lighting, location,
angles, perspectives, poses, styling, props, hair and make up,
accessories, garments, brand etc
• These references must be accessible during the shoot either
digitally or via a printed handout and it also needs to be
circulated to the crew prior to shoot in order to gain visual
clarity on the overall aesthetics and requirements of the shoot

78. LOCATION & BACKGROUND
• It is important to have a clear idea about the desired location for
the shoot
• This can be of two types- Outdoor & Indoor
• Based of the selection of either of the above, various parameter
need to be considered
• OUTDOOR- Shoots executed in natural lighting (street, hills, park}
• Factors to consider- Time of the shoot, weather and climatic
conditions, Permission, Distance, Diffusers and Reflectors if need be
• INDOOR- Shoots executed in artificial lighting ( studio, café, room}
• Factors to consider- Alotted area, lighting, Diffusers and Reflectors

79. LIGHTING- NATURAL / ARTIFICIAL
NATURAL
(OUTDOORS)
ARTIFICIAL
(INDOORS)
• The sun being the ultimate source of
illumination
• Results in free and abundant light without
much control over
• Applicable for Portraits, Lifestyle and Fashion
Photography
• Lack of the ultimate source of illumination,
therefore replaced by secondary sources of
illumination
• The light and other elements can be precisely
controlled and all outside distractions are removed
• This is only possible in a studio or indoor setting
• Applicable for Products, Jewellery, Interiors

80. LIGHTING- NATURAL / ARTIFICIAL
NATURAL
(OUTDOORS)
ARTIFICIAL
(INDOORS)

81. SUBJECT- LIVING/ NON-LIVING/
STORY
• SUBJECT- In photography a subject is the item or concept of utmost focus
in a potential image/shot
• There are various types of subjects, they are:-
• Living-These are subjects which have life and mobility, eg: human beings,
children, models, animals, pets,
• Non-living-These are inanimate items or objects which possess some
significance, eg: products, accessories, jewellery, furniture, food
• Story-This is a different kind of subject which focusses on bringing out an
theme or concept which is independent of the above 2 subjects

82. PROPS
HANDBAG
JOURNALS & POST IT
NOTES

83. PROPS
TECH TOOLS PENS, PENCILS & PAINT

84. PROPS
THREAD, RIBBONS &
BUTTONS
BALLOONS

85. PROPS
HANDS BOOKS

86. PROPS
RULERS & SCISSORS DISHES & BOWLS

87. • Sourcing is executed prior to any shoot
• It is the process of procuring various desired materials for
an upcoming shoot
• The Stylist or the Art Director usually procures these
desired materials with the help of the budget provided for
the shoot by the client/brand
• They can range from jewellery to garment pieces to
backdrops, props of varying kinds, textured surfaces, etc
SOURCING

88. EQUIPMENT- CAMERA/
LENS/ ADD ON’S
• Prior to a shoot it is important to discuss with the photographer on
the equipment he/she has and the additional elements they have in
their photography kit
• Some key equipment one must possess for any given shoot is:-
• UV Lens Filters
• Prime Lens
• DSLR Camera body
• Memory Card
• White Balance Card
• Reflectors
• Dust Blowers
• Tripod
• Microfibre Cleaning Cloth
• Wireless Remote Control

89. EMERGENCY KIT
• An emergency kit is one that a stylist usually carries
during a shoot
• This is to ensure that there is no mishaps, accidents,
etc in terms of delivering the aesthetics of a shoot
• Thus the kit contains items like:-
• Double sided tape, safety pins, rubber bands, lint roller,
clamps, needle & thread, scissors, seam ripper, stain
remover, measuring tape, etc
FOOD STYLISTTOOL
KIT
FASHION STYLISTTOOL
KIT

90. STYLING FOR FOOD

91. STYLING FOR FOOD
• FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY- It is a genre of still life
photography used to create attractive still life
photographs of food
• It is a specialization of commercial photography, the
products of which are used in advertisements, magazines,
packaging, menus or cookbooks
• Professional food photography is a collaborative effort,
usually involving an art director, a photographer, a food
stylist, a prop stylist and their assistants

92. STYLING FOR FOOD
• FOOD STYLING- Is the process of ensuring that the food
looks attractive in the finished photograph
• This involves the art director or stylist to carefully and artfully
arrange the food, in order to sell the food
• It also involves creating a visual translation to depict the
perception of taste, aroma and appeal that one gets from an
actual dish, to a two-dimensional photograph
• Food styling involves basic culinary know-how therefore leading
to resourceful shopping (for sourcing) prior to a shoot

93. FOOD STYLING TIPS & TRICKS
STYLING FOR FOOD

94. STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR INGREDIENTS WISELY
• Pick ingredients that are
unblemished, ripe, fresh and have
good shapes
• Consider the preparation-
cleaning, cutting, coating
STYLING FOR FOOD

95. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 2: SHOW DON’T TELL
It is visually
pleasing to
illustrate the
ingredients of
the dish with a
scattering of
plums in the
background
and a sprinkle
of lemon thyme
over the
surface
Allow the image
to express the
dish it features in
its entirety

96. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 3: STAY REALISTIC
There are practical
garnishes & impractical
garnishes
Poorly selected
garnishes are
jarring, they
make the
viewer question
whether they
even care
about the dish
in the first
place
look at the effect of adding several whole sprigs of thyme to the tart, rather than the light
scattering of leaves that we ultimately went with

97. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 4: GET MESSY BUT
NOT DIRTY
The grease stains on the
parchment in this photo
just aren't attractive
Mess in a food photo
communicates
movement, dynamism,
and the unbridled
pleasure of eating
But there's a
difference
between mess we
want to eat and a
big grease stain
that reminds you
of the clean-up
you'll need to do
later

98. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 4: NARRATE
A STORY
Food Styling
isn’t just about
making the food
look delicious,
but bringing it
to life
Aim to keep
your props,
colors, and
serving sizes
consistent with
the atmosphere
the dish is
meant to evoke

99. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 6: HIGHLIGHT
DIMENSIONS & BREAK
BOUNDARIES
Experiment with
height & boundaries
Don't keep
everything super
flat. By breaking
up surfaces and
playing with
boundaries, you
can bring the
image to life and
translate it to a
three
dimensional
world

100. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 7: USE PAPER TO
ADD TEXTURE AND
CONTRAST
Lining the dish with parchment or baking adds visual interest and soften the mood
Contrasting colour
paper highlights the
dish displayed and
brings a different
texture to the dish

101. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 8: EXHIBITTHE
NATURAL BEAUTY OF
THE FOOD
Ensure that the dish
looks delicious and
mouth watering and
serve it in a way that
flaunts the dish

102. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 9: GET SOME
WORK-IN-
PROGRESS SHOTS
Try taking a few
shots during the
preparation,
cooking process
and the plating
process

103. STYLING FOR FOOD
STEP 10: CHOOSE
SIMPLE CROCKERY
&TABLEWARE
While highly
decorative China
and napery are
beautiful on their
own, they can
detract from the
visual impact of
the food
Plain plates, allow
the food to be the
star

104. STYLING FOR FASHION

105. STYLING FOR FASHION
• A stylist is responsible for creating “style”
• the stylist is deciding what a model or person wears,
and how they wear it.
• The main roles of a stylist can essentially be broken
down into these three categories:
• Editorial styling / Styling for photoshoots
• Brand consultancy
• Celebrity styling

106. STYLING FOR FASHION
• EDITORIAL STYLING / STYLING FOR PHOTOSHOOTS
• When styling for a photoshoot, one chooses the clothing, the
accessories, and the general “look” of the model for the shoot
• In the case of a magazine shoot, the stylist would be given some
direction from the magazine or art director as to what the theme
and what brands need to be featured
• Once the “concept” for the shoot is finalized the stylist then
sources for the shoot with the estimated budget

107. STYLING FOR FASHION
• BRAND CONSULTANCY
• It is another branch of styling
• Some brands hire stylists throughout the whole process
and others bring in a stylist at the end of the collection
process, when most of the clothes have been designed, but
they need someone to help “pull it together.”
• The stylist essentially becomes a part of the design team,
but they don’t do any physical designs, they just give their
ideas

108. STYLING FOR FASHION
• CELEBRITY STYLING
• Is another category of styling wherein the stylist can work with
a celebrity on a regular basis (dressing her/him for day to day as
well as events)
• Or the stylist will work with them only for a special occasion or
event
• When dressing a celebrity for an event, the stylist needs to
consider the brand/ brands the celebrity needs to support,
current trends, and what message they wish to convey

109. STYLING FOR FASHION
• Styling for a fashion shoot involves one to be a part of the
larger creative team assembled by the client
• It includes collaborating with a Fashion Designer,
Photographer, Director, hair and makeup, to put together a
particular ‘ LOOK’ for the concept & brief that has been
created
• During a shoot the role of the Stylist is to provide the
photographer an extra set of eyes, ears and hands leaving the
photographer to stay behind the camera, while catering to all
the aesthetics of the shoot with the aid of the stylist kit

110. STYLING FOR FASHION
STYLINGTO-DO LIST
STEP 1: Source fashion
items and props for
photographic shoots within
the budget

111. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 2: Offer advise on
photographic approaches
Be involved in the
selection of locations,
props, clothing, models,
makeup artists,
photographers, hair
stylists and the overall
look for photo shoots

112. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 3:Advise and direct the
photography of items and
clothing selected for
promotion

113. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 4: Liaise with
fashion designers,
retailers, the
media,
models/model
agencies,
photographers,
makeup artists,
hairdressers,
beauty therapists,
personal trainers
and the media

114. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 5: Offer modelling advice, how to
pose, when to look natural and how to
create different looks

115. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 6: Offer
modelling advice,
on how to pose,
when to look
natural and how
to create different
looks
Making sure the
client is placed in
the most flattering
body positions

116. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 7: Ensure that the frame
is clear and uncluttered by
removing any
obstructing/distracting objects
in your photo foreground and
background

117. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 8:Attend to wardrobe,
iron/steam clothing if required,
check if buttons and zippers are
done correctly

118. STYLING FOR FASHION
STEP 9:Attend to hair and
make-up, making sure that
everything is in its place

119. Hair- Middle Parting,
sleek down
Accessories-
Round/Circle shades
Accessories- Chain
strap clutch
Accessories-
Chunky bangles in
block colours
Make up- Nude,
skin tones
Accessories- Black
Platform Heels
STYLING FOR FASHION

120. STYLING FOR INTERIORS

121. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
• INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHY- It is a genre of still
life photography used to create attractive still life
photographs of interiors
• It is a specialization of commercial photography, the
products of which are used in advertisements,
magazines, packaging, etc
• Professional photography for interiors is a
collaborative effort, usually involving an art director,
a photographer, a stylist, a prop stylist and their
assistants

122. • STYLING INTERIORS- Is the process of ensuring that the
various components featured (table lamp, bed, bedspread)
looks attractive in the finished photograph
• This involves the art director or stylist to carefully and
artfully arrange the furniture and its props, in order to sell
the entire set
• It also involves visually translating the perception of
comfort, ease, luxury, warmth, belonging, into a two-
dimensional photograph
STYLING FOR INTERIORS

123. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 1: Ensure that the desired space is
neat and tidy
Fluff Pillows, straighten drapes, clean
surfaces

124. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 2: Edit and
de-clutter
Keep styling simple,
work with what you
have in the home:
move a vase or a
bowl, stack some
great books
Add foliage to the vase, pick some lemons for the bowl.
Living things bring life to the room and the photography

125. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 3:Tell a story
Add layers of meaning
& context

126. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
Plan your space,
the photos and
angles you want
to capture, plan
the feel of the
whole group of
photos you will
be taking and
how each photo
might relate to
the project and
the story
STEP 4: Make a plan

127. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 5: PROPS
Styling involves
complementing
subjects with
specific props:
florals, accessories,
small art, throws,
pillows, coffee table
books, a rug,
candles, trays, fruits,
etc
Keep the room
as a base to
which you add
a layer of
coordinating
items that will
reflect a
cohesive story

128. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 6: Leave things
slightly undone & natural
A perfectly polished space
seems too pristine & often
feels forced and unnatural
When taking photos, it's
perfectly fine to have
some pillows unfluffed,
a throw randomly
tossed over the corner
of a sofa, or a slightly
crooked tablecloth This way, the image will feel
more real than staged

129. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 7: Be aware of
reflections
When shooting rooms
with windows, reflective
surfaces, or framed
artwork behind glass, pay
attention to what you see
coming through in the
reflections
Have a person hold up a
sheet to block whatever
light is coming in and
causing the reflection so
that you can focus on the
subject and not the
unintended visuals

130. STYLING FOR INTERIORS
STEP 8: Check for straight
lines
Ensure the photo’s vertical
line, like bookshelves,
window frames, and
doors—are in fact straight
rather than skewed and
distorted.
The same goes for
horizontal lines like crown
moulding or curtain rods

131. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS

132. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
• PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY- It is a branch of
commercial photography, which focusses on
presenting the product accurately and in the most
attractive manner possible
• The principal application of product photography is
in product catalogues and brouchers, with a
proportion of product images also being used in
advertising

133. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
• PRODUCT STYLING - Is the process of ensuring
that the product is the highlight of the image in
coherence with various supporting elements
featured, which complete the image
• The focus however still remains on the product
entirely
• This involves the art director or stylist to carefully
and artfully arrange props, backdrops if any in order
to sell the entire look

134. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
STEP 1: Check your Basics
Make sure your
photographs are sharp
and in focus clearly
demonstrating the
product you wish to sell
Do not have distracting borders
or filters and overpowering
props

135. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
STEP 2: Choose your
backdrop
Select a backdrop which
suits the vibe and theme
or colour scheme of the
product or attempt a
contrast

136. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
STEP 3:All about the
Details
Think carefully about the
details and how you
can emphasise the ethos
of the brand and make
the product even more
desirable
Play with texture, print and
pattern as it draws interest to the
product

137. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
Offer clear visual cues on
products with the help of
styling as per season
Such cues can be
demonstrated through the
hues of the backdrop,
seasonal flowers, colour
palette and props accordingly
STEP 4: Style for the Season

138. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
STEP 5: Use natural light whenever
possible
Shooting during the day is best.
Shoot near a window if your at
home or outdoors as far as possible

139. STYLING FOR PRODUCTS
STEP 6: Keep it neutral &
minimal
Don’t go crazy on the
backdrops/ backgrounds you
use for shooting your
products
Use a white or light coloured
backdrop for a darker
product and a dark coloured
backdrop for a lighter
product to create contrast
enabling the product stands
out

140. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY

141. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
• ARCHITECTURE
• CULTURE
• FAMILY
• GLAMOUR
• LANDSCAPE
• NATURE
• NARRATIVE
• PORTRAIT
• PEOPLE

142. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
ARCHITECTURE
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in Architecture
Photography
• The styling for this shot is implemented by means of the play of
light and shadows by the photographer himself
• An angle of perspective and depth is also displayed in the image
• The contrasting colour of the ceiling adds to the overall charm
and aesthetics of the image
• Thus, expecting a keen eye to capture all these elements
together and simultaneously into that one perfect shot

143. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
CULTURE
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in Culture
Photography
• These shots are usually candid shots captured in the spur of
the moment during traditional customs or ceremonies or daily
life occurrences that separate one culture from another
• These styling element of these shots has largely to do with the
subject in relation to the background supporting the mood,
vibe, theme and overall charm of the image
• Traditional attire and the way its draped along with accessories
or props play a hug role in such shots

144. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
FAMILY
• These shots are sometimes candid shots or
otherwise staged shots
• The styling element has largely to do with the live
subjects, in relation to colour or pattern coding all
the subjects outfits to demonstrate unity
• Colour coding the outfits with respect to the
background, creating adequate contrast
• Creating depth and distance is another way to style
the shoot
• Usually styled outdoors for a more natural feel

145. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
GLAMOUR
• There is maximum or over-the-top amount of styling involved
in Glamour Photography
• It is a branch of Fashion Photography
• These shots are exuberant in nature and luxurious in its vibe
• The styling element of these shots has largely to do with the
subject in relation to the background supporting the mood,
vibe, theme and overall charm of the image
• Along with the props and accessories used to give that over-
the-top feel

146. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
LANDSCAPE
• This form of photography has largely to do with angle and
perspective along with wise selection of one’s frame be it
portrait or landscape
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in landscape
photography
• The elements used to style such images would spring from
nature itself
• Although in such images the background is the focus

147. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
NATURE
• This form of photography has largely to do with more focused and
niche subjects
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in nature photography
• In such photography its all about capturing the details
• It is the opposite of landscape photography wherein the foreground
or the subject is the focus
• The elements used to style such images would spring from nature
itself and serve as a form of blurred yet supporting background
• For eg: In this image the prop element would be the leaf on the
ground

148. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
NARRATIVE
• This form of photography has largely to do with demonstrating
an abstract concept, notion or story
• The styling involved can range from minimalistic to maximalistic
• Wherein the main focus would be to tell the story within just a
single image
• Props and backgrounds play a huge role in this form of
photography

149. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
PORTRAIT
• This form of photography focusses solely on a single living
subject and its features
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in portrait
photography
• The main styling element would be the
backdrop/background and its nature
• There would be rare to no usage of props in this form of
photography as it is subject focused

150. STYLING FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
PEOPLE
• This form of photography focusses solely on multiple
living subject and its features simultaneously
• The image would also display some form of interaction
between the subjects
• There is bare to minimal styling involved in people
photography
• The main styling element would be the various ways to
display the interaction between subjects in coordination
with the backdrop/background

151. REFERENCE LINKS
• Introduction to Styling- Definition- http://www.thefreedictionary.com/styling
• Difference between Designing & Styling- https://khandoker.wordpress.com/2015/12/07/is-
there-any-difference-between-design-and-style/
• Difference between Designing & Styling- Extra info link-
https://www.slideshare.net/rogerpitiot/design-vs-styling
• Difference between Designing & Styling- Extra info link-
http://www.autoblog.com/2013/10/11/design-handbook-video-design-vs-styling-cars/
• Colour, Print, Pattern &Texture- Colour & Colour Combinations-
http://thestylenote.com/2013/04/09/styling-101-color-combinations/
• Colour Combinations- Colour & Contrast- Extra info- www.worqx.com/color/

152. REFERENCE LINKS
• Colour Combinations- Colour & Contrast- Extra info-
• http://www.webexhibits.org/colorart/contrast.html
• Prints, Patterns &Textures-Textures- https://dailypost.wordpress.com/2013/09/17/shape-line-
texture-pattern/comment-page-2/
• Prints, Patterns &Textures- Mixing & MatchingTricks-
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/mixing-it-up-how-to-combine-patterns-like-a-pro-174616
• Prints, Patterns &Textures- Extra info- https://www.ephotozine.com/article/patterns-and-
textures---photography-guide-4683
• Props & Backgrounds- Props Definition- http://www.photokonnexion.com/definition-props-
theatrical_properties/

153. REFERENCE LINKS
• Types of props & backgrounds- Additional info- http://ivorymix.com/instagram-
and-blog-photo-ideas-props-and-backdrops/
• Factors to consider for a shoot- Lighting- Natural / Artificial-
https://savageuniversal.com/blog/studio-vs-outdoor-photography/
• Factors to consider for a shoot- Equipment- Camera, Lens / Add on’s
• http://www.shrimpsaladcircus.com/essential-photography-
supplies/#_a5y_p=5065884
• Styling for Food- Food Photography & Food Styling
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_photography

154. REFERENCE LINKS
• Styling for Food- http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/10/food-styling-tips-for-home-
cooks.html
• Styling for Food- https://digital-photography-school.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-food-
photography-styling/
• Styling for Food- Additional info- http://drizzleanddip.com/2012/09/18/10-tips-for-food-
photography-styling
• Styling for Fashion- http://searchingforstyle.com/2011/04/fashion-101-what-does-a-
stylist-do/
• Styling for Fashion- http://styledbyjade.com.au/styling-services/photo-shoot-styling/

155. REFERENCE LINKS
• Styling for Interiors- http://www.davidduncanlivingston.com/photo-styling-for-interiors/
• Styling for Interiors- http://www.mydomaine.com/tips-for-photographing-interiors
• Styling for Products- https://wiki.nikonians.org/Product_photography
• Styling for Products- http://blog.folksy.com/2016/08/02/styled-product-shots-tips
• Styling for Products- http://www.papernstitchblog.com/2010/06/21/top-ten-tips-for-
better-product-photography/