In today's world we are saturated with images. All around us there are images of thin women dressed in the latest fashion. They are on TV, in magazines and all over the internet. But who brings these images to us? Who captures these photographs that command our attention, these photographs that exude style and character while highlighting the clothing to enhance its elegance? These people spend years practising the art of capturing light and colour perfectly with a camera. They spend years studying composition to make their images achieve the most impact. These people are fashion photographers.

Photographers like Mario Testino are just as celebrated as models and designers in the realm of fashion. They present high-fashion to the public and have the responsibility of representing it in its best light.

The extravagant lifestyle of socialiseing with the rich and famous is the aspiration of many who ecome into this business. But the truth is that this is a bleak field to work in if you don't have complete conviction in what you are doing. This must be your passion, as the path to success will try you without mercy. For every success there are hundreds of failures who never get a glimpse of the fame and money they strive for.

You have to study your subject every day. Read, learn and think about everything you encounter. Everything you experience will contribute to how you perceive the world and consequently your art. Read fashion magazines whenever you can and invest in some quality fashion photography books. You can get some off Amazon.com easily. If you're serious about fashion photography then you need to have at least one professional-grade camera, some basic lighting equipment and a tripod. Look into the different types of camera as they will affect the photos you take.

You really need to have a portfolio of your best work on you at all times. If a fashion editor shows any interest in you, they are going ot want to see what you can do. Clear, bright photographs give the best impression. 4×5" is a good format to present your work in, but if your work has been published you can take a copy of that too. If these are not an option then a decent quality 8×10" will do fine. Make sure you have at least 20 photographs in your portfolio and try to show your grasp of different styles. Provide proof of your skill in capturing full figure shots.

When you apply for a job, you can expect to leave your portfolio there for a few weeks, so make sure you make copies of your portfolio so you don't have to be idle while hearing back from employers. For a different look try taking partial body shots, for instance photographing watches on wrists. They make a great contrast to the rest of your work.

Having an online presence is becoming an important part of fashion photography. Setting up a website with your portfolio on it could be the key to your success. Research ways to promote your website, such as entering online competitions and participating in online fashion forums.

What fashion editors are really looking for is a unique character in your photographs. Every photographer captures different images. It is a good idea to learn about your art to improve your technical skills. This will give you greater freedom to express your vision.To succeed at this, you must be persistent, so don't give up if this is your dream and never stop learning.