Comparing and contrasting.

From looking at all of the photographers I have chosen, it is clear to see changes in techniques, subject matter, form and mood happening over time. For example, Beaton was one of the earliest photographers I studied and overall his work is very simple with regards to subject matter and composition. The images I chose to look at feature one model in the centre of the image and an uncomplicated setting. The work of Blumenfeld was published a few years later but is very different. Blumenfeld’s work has been edited in a more apparent way unlike Beaton’s which looks more natural. One aspect that both photographers share is their excellent use of chiaroscuro. 

Cecil Beaton and his use of chiaroscuro.

Erwin Blumenfeld and his use of chiaroscuro.

Cecil Beaton and his natural-looking editing.

Erwin Blumenfeld and his distinguished editing.

Blumenfeld and Parkinson were active around the same time (1930’s) and just as Blumenfeld changed fashion photography by creating pieces that were very obviously edited, Parkinson changed the industry also by deciding to shoot most of his images outside of the studio. By leaving the restrictions of a studio behind, Parkinson was able to reveal more thought and detail through the setting. The setting also helped to make audiences aware of the context. 

Erwin Blumenfeld and an image taken in a studio.

Norman Parkinson and an image taken outdoors.

Newton’s most memorable work dates from 1936 onwards and, compared to earlier photographers, contains more of a sexual/erotic theme. This could signify a change in society’s attitudes. The women that appear in Parkinson’s photos are the epitome of femininity with their full skirts and elegant poses, whereas the women in Newton’s work are strong, dominant and dressed in a masculine manner. 

The model in Norman Parkinson's photo is dressed very feminine. 

The model in Helmut Newton's photo is dressed very masculine.

From 1944 Avedon produced images that were more digitally manipulated than anything his predecessors had created. Earlier photographers usually kept editing quite natural looking but Avedon purposefully created quirky and unusual images, for example the Audrey Hepburn photograph. This particular photo of Hepburn stands out because Avedon shot her in a way that wasn't necessarily attractive, especially compared to Beaton’s images of her which play on her femininity and beauty. 

Richard Avedon's shot of Audrey Hepburn.

Cecil Beaton's shot of Audrey Hepburn.

With so many changes happening within the industry with regard to content and editing techniques, Bailey needed to do something different to stand out. He made his portfolio unique by choosing to shoot elegant and classy looking models in settings that were less than pristine. The contrasts in his images were probably shocking to society at the time because different classes usually stayed segregated. 

David Bailey.

Out of all my selected photographers, Vallhonrat is the most contemporary but his image has the appearance of the more traditional art form of painting. Combined with the traditional painted effect is the modern poses held by the models, they are sensual and erogenous. This combination makes Vallhonrat’s work stand out and appeal to those who are interested in both traditional and modern art. 

Javier Vallhonrat.

As my study shows, many changes have taken place within fashion photography. It is a fast-paced industry which is constantly evolving. Fashion photographers these days must find ways to evolve and come up with new ideas and concepts, either that or they must be incredibly good at taking images in their particular style. It’s exciting to anticipate what kind of photos we’ll be seeing in magazines over the next few years and I am keen to keep experimenting with techniques I have picked up from the photographers I have studied.