Capture the magic: Tips for great photos

BEST DRESSED & BEST SUITED

For the Best Dressed or Suited category, it's all about showcasing the entire ensemble. From the elegant headwear to the perfectly polished shoes, every element should be in harmony. Here are some tips:

1) Full-length shots

Ensure your entire outfit is in view. Stand tall and confident, with a backdrop that complements but doesn’t overshadow your look.

Aaron, an entrant in 2023, is a great example here, with his full-length shot against a natural and neutral background.

Natural light is your friend!

Early morning or late afternoon provides soft, flattering lighting that enhances your outfit’s colors and textures.

2) Mid-length and cropped shots

Capture the essence of your outfit from the waist up. This allows details like tailoring, fabrics, and accessories to shine.

Gracyn, pictured here in a 2022 entry, did this perfectly.

Experiment with angles.

A slight turn of the body can add dimension and interest to your photos and enhance designs.

3) Close-ups

Highlight the finishing touches that complete your look. This includes heap pieces, jewellery, belts, and shoes.

Take inspiration from how Oliver captured his accessories in 2023.

Use macro settings or portrait mode on your camera to ensure clarity and focus on these details.

CREATIVE AWARDS

For the Creative Awards, the focus shifts to the artistic and imaginative elements of your entry. This category allows for more expressive and unique shots.

Millinery Award

Keep the spotlight on the headpiece. The outfit should complement but not overshadow the millinery.

A great example of this is the entry by Wendy in 2023, where the black dress let the millinery shine.

Use close-ups to capture intricate details and craftsmanship. Aim for shots that highlight the texture, color, and unique elements of the headpiece.

The model can be a real person or a mannequin, but either way, ensure that the piece is well lit and shot from all angles, as demonstrated by Lisette’s entry.

Emerging Designer Award

Showcase the design from multiple angles. Full-length shots provide a sense of the overall vision, while close-ups and mid-length shots highlight specific details and craftsmanship.

Use dynamic poses and movements to bring the design to life. This helps convey the fabric’s flow and the outfit’s versatility.

GENERAL TIPS

Lighting: Natural light works best. Avoid harsh midday sun and instead opt for the soft light of morning or late afternoon.

Background: Choose a backdrop that enhances but does not distract from your outfit. A plain or subtly textured background works well.

Posing: Confidence is key. Practice a few poses in front of the mirror to find the most flattering angles for your body and outfit.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE 2024 COMPETITION