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Behind the Scenes: Capturing Fashion Week Magic

Ashwinder SethiAshwinder Sethi
November 15, 20248 min read

An exclusive look at what goes into photographing one of the most demanding and exhilarating events in the fashion calendar. From early morning setups to the final runway shots.

Fashion Week is a whirlwind of creativity, chaos, and couture. As a photographer, being backstage during these events is like stepping into another world – one where every second counts and every frame matters.

The Early Morning Setup

My day typically starts at 4 AM. While the city sleeps, I'm already at the venue, checking lighting conditions, testing equipment, and visualizing the shots I want to capture. The golden hour before chaos ensues is when I find my calm.

Backstage preparation at fashion week
The calm before the storm – setting up lighting rigs at 5 AM

Capturing the Energy

When the models start arriving and the makeup artists begin their work, the energy in the room transforms. There's an electricity in the air that's palpable. My job is to capture not just the fashion, but the emotion behind it.

The best fashion photographs are the ones that make you feel something. They transport you into that moment, that emotion, that story.

Ashwinder Sethi
Model getting ready backstage
Final touches before the runway – every detail matters

The Runway Moment

When the lights dim and the music starts, everything I've prepared for comes down to split-second decisions. Which angle? Which model? Which expression? It's a dance between anticipation and reaction.

  • Always have a backup camera ready
  • Know the runway layout beforehand
  • Anticipate the walk pattern
  • Focus on expressions, not just clothes
  • Capture the atmosphere, not just the subject

After hours of shooting, thousands of frames, and countless cups of coffee, the real work begins – culling and editing. But that's a story for another day.

Ashwinder Sethi

Written by

Ashwinder Sethi

Professional photographer specializing in fashion, portrait, and commercial photography. Based in Ludhiana, Punjab.

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