Photography: Festival Mode & Design - Montreal

The following are tips for shooting the runway shows at the Montreal Festival Mode & Design

Since 2006, I've noticed a steady increase of photographers at this annual festival of fashion and design. Whether that's because the digital age has brought upon more affordable DSLRs or simply more shows like Canada's Next Top Model or Project Runway have brought fashion even more into the mainstream we may never know. In any case, the Montreal Festival Mode & Design is certainly attracting more photographers each year from the curious shutterbug to the die-hard wannabe paparazzi. We Montrealers are privileged to have free open fashion runway shows.



So for all you willing to test your skills out on the battlefield, here now are some tips and tricks for the festival.

(The following is modified from the New York Institute of Photography)

Study the Field
Consider what framing/composition ideas will work best for these runways. Notice the amount of room left below shoes and above the models heads in the full length photographs, and notice the relationship of model to background.

Position is Key
Expect a crowd fighting over the best positions to photograph from, and realize that you'll need to get there early. It is a free event so definitely first come first serve. If you get a great spot, do your best to keep it and maintain enough room to do your work. Before throwing any elbows or harsh words at the other photographers, though, remember you may see the same group at other events. Probably better to make some new friends. Remember we're all there to enjoy the show too.

Check the Lighting and White Balance
In the biggest fashion shows, you'll be working with the lighting that's provided. Remember to check your white balance, as you may need to switch to a "tungsten" or "indoor" setting. Also, taking some test shots early and checking the histogram — the graphic representation of the tones in the image — will let you know if you have your exposure right. Using spot metering will help you get faster exposures since you'll want to meter only for the available lights. Remember your metering may dramatically change as the model is walking until she finally stops.

Fast Lenses
You won't be controlling the light level, and may find this is a situation where a fast lens — a lens with a widest aperture of F1.4, F2.0, or F2.8 — may help you keep a fast enough shutter speed to freeze the action. Also, shooting at an aperture like F2.8 or F4 can let you create an image with the model sharply focused and the background thrown out of focus — a good effect in some situations.

Take Verticals
Runway photography means vertical shots. You are framing the model from shoes to hat, so turn your camera sideways. As well, this suits the pages of fashion magazines, especially if your goal is the cover. Most DSLR cameras have the option to add a vertical grip — which will make it easy to operate your camera in a vertical position. (Usually, they also let you add a second battery, which may be useful as well. It wouldn't be a good idea to run out of power in the middle of the fashion show.)


Remember, shooting off 10000000+ frames doesn't mean you'll get the shot you want! Get there early, study the runway, the lighting and anticipate what kind of shot you'll be getting.

And while you're looking through the lens, don't forget to look at the models :P!