How Pandemic Life Gave Rise To The Home Photoshoot
By Claudia Langella
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world. Over the past six months we’ve seen how adaptable the fashion industry is, and we’re pretty impressed. Entire collections have been showcased around the world with the noticeable absence of front row spectators. Designers picked up where they left off in the studio, and took it to the comfort of their own living rooms. Even some of the most seasoned photographers and models changed the way they collaborate. Enter the remote photoshoot—so simple you could do it from the comfort of your own backyard.
Bella Hadid & Mert Alas for i-D
Back in March when the world stopped moving, model Bella Hadid saw it as an opportunity to continue working. She and creative photographer Mert Alas shot photos for i-D from the Hadid’s farm in Pennsylvania over FaceTime. Bella is seen in full hair and makeup (done by herself) climbing a cherry blossom tree, surrounded by petals and sunshine. She looks like she’s out there living her best life.
Zara Spring Collection
Zara debuted their Spring/Summer collection in April with the help of models in quarantine. Sounds almost impossible, but the retailer produced new product images by enlisting their models to take selfies and candid pictures at home in the new collection. One model is seen lounging on a couch—like we all were back when the pandemic began—in a drapey pencil skirt and bra top. Another model finds herself perched on some cushions enjoying a cup of coffee. These stunning photos make life at home appear more glamorous than it actually is. We’re here for it!
Naomi Campbell for Essence
There’s only one model capable of shooting her own portrait for the 50th anniversary of Essence: Naomi Campbell. It comes at no shock that this supermodel is able to shine both in front of and behind the camera. Just a few days before Essence was supposed to sit down with Campbell for their 50th anniversary issue, the world shut down and the magazine had to do some major rescheduling. Studios were closed and the only realistic option was for Campbell to take the photos herself. The seasoned pro did her own hair and makeup, styled the shoot and took the photos on her phone. The outcome is a fierce cover and a great story, proving that anyone in the fashion industry can shift at the blink of an eye.
cover image via Preview