research on editorial shoots

• Cinematography

What is Editorial Photography & How to Take Editorial Images

A mong all of the different practices of photography that exist, which provides the most creative freedom? Which practice gives photographers freedom to explore any story or concept that they envision? The answer, most would argue, is editorial photography.

Editorial photography is nor restrained by brand image like commercial photography. Nor does it depend on the unpredictable nature of street photography. Editorial photography allows photographers to use every tool at their disposal to create an image that tells a story. In this article, we’ll take a look at the steps you can take to creating your own editorial photography.

What is editorial photography?

Editorial photography definition    .

Before we dive into the steps to creating editorial photography we must first answer “What is editorial photography?” After the definition, we'll look at the differences between various types of photography as well as examples and styles of editorial photography.

EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY DEFINITION

Editorial photography is a type of photography that aims to tell a story or portray a concept. Editorial photography is commonly found in magazines, newspapers, editorial features, and journalism. Unlike commercial photography, editorial photography relies much more on story than it does on a brand. The motive, therefore, is not to sell but rather express and engage.

What is editorial photography used in?

• Editorial features

Difference between commercial and editorial photography             

Editorial vs. commercial photography.

Before diving into the fundamental components of shooting editorial style photography, let’s take a look at how it differs from commercial photography.

Both editorial style photography and commercial photography are designed to be printed or posted online. Both are also designed to engage viewers. Where they differ is in their goals.

Check out this video by Tin House Studio that lays down the differences in pay, creative freedom, and goals of editorial style photography and those of commercial photography.

Difference between commercial and editorial photography

To recap, commercial photography aims to persuade consumers into buying into a brand, product, or service. Commercial photography is commonly seen in ad campaigns, entertainment promotions, packaging, and general branding. The result of commercial photography greatly depends on the brand being sold. Consider this example from Nike.

What is editorial photography vs commercial photography?

Editorial style photography, on the other hand, aims to tell a story or portray a concept. The motive is not to sell, but rather express and engage. Editorial photography is commonly found in magazines, newspapers, editorial features, and journalism. Editorial style photography relies much more on story than it does on a brand.

Among the many Vanity Fair editorial photography examples, this one by Art Streiber aims to tell the story of a pivotal moment in Hollywood. Streiber’s editorial aims to capture a moment in which Jordan Peele and Greta Gerwig both receive adoration for their films Get Out   and Lady Bird   introducing much needed diversity to the best directors conversation.

Editorial photography examples  •  Vanity Fair

The crisp editorial photo is set dressed beautifully to tell a story. It also helps to have two powerhouse directors be the subject of the photograph. Now that you understand the difference between commercial and editorial photography, let’s dive into how to create it.

What is editorial style photography?

Begin with the story.

The very first step in creating editorial photography is to determine the story that you want to tell. Editorial photography is almost always composed of a series of photos that tell a story. Therefore, the story will become the blueprint of the rest of your shoot.

There are no limits to the stories told through editorial photography. They can be based on current events, lifestyles, a concept, or even pre-existing stories.

Annie Leibovitz Editorial photography examples

If you are having trouble finding a story to tell, it often helps to start simple. What emotion or concept are you curious enough to explore. Maybe it’s paranoia, anxiety, freedom, or angst? Build a story from these curiosities.

Related Posts

• B&W Portrait Photography Tips →
• How Mise en Scène Creates Visual Storytelling →
• Different Character Archetypes in Literature & Movies →

What are editorial photos made of?

Create a mood board.

Once you’ve determined your story, it’s time to start putting together your vision of how to tell it. Creating a mood board will help you find inspiration for what you want to capture. They help you develop an overall aesthetic for your shoot.

What is editorial photography created from?

Mood boards not only help you as the photographer, but everyone you will be working with. It will serve as a reference point for other creatives or models on the shoot. This video by Mango Street lays out how they created the mood board you see above and why creating a mood board is integral to conceptualizing your photoshoot.

What is editorial photography: Conceptualizing

As you can see from the mood board created in the video, visual elements like location, wardrobe, and mood are important to explore. However, mood boards have no rules. They are designed to best serve you and your project’s needs. 

Take a look at the mood board we created for an example editorial shoot using the free StudioBinder storyboarding app . Simply upload images and create your own mood board for your editorial photoshoot. 

Editorial photoshoot moodboard example

If there are other elements that you specifically envision and are important to the shoot, explore them in your mood board. This could be things like make up, color schemes, lighting styles, or set dressing. Compile photos and visuals into software like StudioBinder to create your own mood boards for your project.

Editorial fashion photography     

Cast your model   .

Creating your mood board will also inform you on the type of model to cast in your shoot. This does not necessarily mean you will have an idea of what your model will look like per se, but rather how they will perform.

When casting a model for an editorial shoot there are a few things to consider. First is obviously their appearance and how that fits into your vision. Professional photographers have the luxury of working with high profile models, actors, and celebrities.

Editorial photoshoot example

Without this luxury, it’s important to interview and be thorough with your casting. Utilize resources like casting templates and audition forms to stay organized and comprehensive. Be aware that you will be collaborating with this model and directing them. Because of this, communication skills, competence, and experience should factor into your decision.

A great way to start casting is to contact model agencies and send them your mood board. The agency will then provide model comp cards that will give you an idea of what you have to cast from.

It is also important to note that some editorials that lean more towards journalism may not involve casting a model at all. Some editorials aim to capture real people for authenticity. Whether you shoot this way or with a model will depend entirely on the story you are telling as well as your vision.

What are editorial photos?

Assemble a team.

The next step in preparing to shoot editorial photography is to assemble a team. This step is completely dependent on the story you are telling and the scale of your production.

When it comes to professional, big budget productions, teams can be massive. Just take a look at this behind the scenes video of a Vogue editorial shoot.

Behind the Scenes of Vogue Editorial fashion photography

Of course, we aren’t all shooting for Vogue and we may have smaller budgets to work with. So it’s important to determine what roles you need.

Whether it be make up stylists, camera assistants to hold up reflectors, or a wardrobe stylist for multiple wardrobe changes, your team may differ from shoot to shoot. 

Great editorial photography can still be achieved with minimal team members or none at all. It’s just important to know your restraints prior to planning your shoot so that you can work within your means.

• DOWNLOAD: Audition Form Templates →
• The Best Crew List Template Booking Sheet →
• Online Call Sheet Templates for Any Scale of Production →

Determine a location

Depending on what story you are capturing, location can be everything. The first decision you must make is if you will be shooting in a studio or on location. Some shoots will require the controlled setting of a studio with solid backdrops. It’s essential to understand how to manage your shooting locations if your shoot entails multiple locations.

What is editorial photography?  •  Studios

If you do opt for a studio, find a reasonably priced one that best serves your needs. This may come down to space, affordability, or studio location.

Other editorial shoots will rely on specific locations with complex sets. Refer to your mood board to hone in on the location you will need. These on location shoots will be determined by the story you are telling.

What is editorial photography on location by Oscar Munar

If you shoot on location, utilize online resources to find rentable spaces or locations of other photoshoots you admire. Learn how to scout a location and plan to visit these locations prior to shooting to really understand the environment in which you will be shooting.

On location, consider how it works with natural light and what problems may unfold such as weather, permits, or travel.

How to take editorial photos?

An integral part of expressing your story in editorial photography is styling. Styling is an opportunity to manipulate visual elements of your photograph to better tell your story or portray a concept.

Hair styling and wardrobe can be extremely important for specific editorials. If your story is set during a specific time period or meant to reflect a specific culture, wardrobe styling becomes all the more important. Consider enlisting the help of professional stylists if you can afford to do so.

Types of editorial photography  •  photo by Oscar Munar

While wardrobe, hair, and make up are important, it is only a part of styling a photograph. Set dressing and props can be an incredibly important part of capturing a story or concept.

Even in more abstract shoots where stories are not as straightforward, styling the set can create a deeper meaning in an image that can capture a viewer's attention.

Types of editorial photography  •  Photo by Sahar Rana

Again, referring to your moodboard will be critical when styling your editorial photo shoot. Experiment with different styling tools at your disposal like wardrobe and set dressing to really capture the story you are trying to tell.

Your styling, location, and model will all be information to include in your editorial portrait shot list . This will keep you organized and remind you of what your gameplan is when the shoot days finally arrive.

• Visualize your scenes with intuitive online shotlist →
• How Bong Joon-ho’s Dresses a Set for Meaning →
• How to Use Color Theory for Visual Storytelling →

How to shoot editorial photography         

Direct the shoot.

Most of these tips on shooting editorial photography have more to do with preparation than actual shooting. That’s because in editorial photography, preparation is everything.

Once the actual shoot arrives, the main thing to remember is to trust your instincts and direct the shoot. As the photographer, you conceptualized this idea and put it together. Be the leader on the shoot that can direct the ship in the right direction.

Take a look at how Annie Leibovitz, renowned photographer, directs her editorial shoot for Vogue. Note how she directs her team and the model confidently, but still collaborates creatively to produce the best images.

Annie Leibovitz BTS  •  What is editorial photography

Direct your model and team appropriately so that all hands work toward the same vision. Be open to using tools like music, your moodboard, and your communication skills to set the mood on set.

Editorial photography is one of the best places for a photographer to most freely express their artistic visions. Hopefully some of these tips have inspired you to create your own editorial and explore your artistic curiosities as a photographer.

Portrait photography tips

Editorial photography aims to tell a story through a series of still images. Oftentimes, these images will be portraits within an editorial If these are the type of editorial images you are shooting, check out our next article. We dive into tips and techniques on how to shoot great portrait photography.

Up Next: Portrait Photography Tips →

Showcase your vision with elegant shot lists and storyboards..

Create robust and customizable shot lists. Upload images to make storyboards and slideshows.

Learn More ➜

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Pricing & Plans
• Product Updates
• Featured On
• StudioBinder Partners
• The Ultimate Guide to Call Sheets (with FREE Call Sheet Template)
• How to Break Down a Script (with FREE Script Breakdown Sheet)
• The Only Shot List Template You Need — with Free Download
• Managing Your Film Budget Cashflow & PO Log (Free Template)
• A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet
• Best Storyboard Softwares (with free Storyboard Templates)
• Movie Magic Scheduling
• Gorilla Software
• Storyboard That

A visual medium requires visual methods. Master the art of visual storytelling with our FREE video series on directing and filmmaking techniques.

We’re in a golden age of TV writing and development. More and more people are flocking to the small screen to find daily entertainment. So how can you break put from the pack and get your idea onto the small screen? We’re here to help.

• Making It: From Pre-Production to Screen
• What is Film Distribution — The Ultimate Guide for Filmmakers
• What is a Fable — Definition, Examples & Characteristics
• Whiplash Script PDF Download — Plot, Characters and Theme
• What Is a Talking Head — Definition and Examples
• What is Blue Comedy — Definitions, Examples and Impact
• 30 Facebook
• 1 Pinterest

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

What is Editorial Photography? (+ Settings, Ideas & Examples)

Find out the difference between editorial and commercial photography in this must-read guide! Plus all the rules on licensing.

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ana Mireles

Are you confused about editorial photography? Believe me, you’re not alone.

The first thing that comes to mind is to think it refers to images used by editorial houses, in other words, the ones published in books and magazines.

This is only partially true. More specifically, it can relate to aesthetics when you talk about editorial style, or it can be about the use you give to it.

There are two different types of licenses: editorial and commercial, and we’ll examine them both for clarification.

Let’s dive right in with a definition…

Table of Contents

What is Editorial Photography?

Editorial photography is the usage of editorial images to illustrate, inform, educate or tell a story along with the text in a publication. Editorial photography can be found in books, magazines, on websites, in the newspapers and even in an editorial presentation.

Now that we know that, we have to divide the concept of editorial photo in two. The one that refers to a style and the one that’s about legal matters.

Let me start with the legal, in other words, the license of use. When you talk about editorial, it means that a photograph can’t be used in advertising.

Images that are marked for editorial use are meant to be informative , so they can be about news or an event. In other cases, they can show an object or an action as a demonstration of what an article is talking about.

In the case of editorial images, you usually don’t need releases from the subjects or brands that are represented. Keep in mind that this is just a general rule. Things can be different from country to country and laws can be updated, so don’t take this as legal advice.

For example, if you want to sell your images on a stock photography website , they will have different rules about the images you can submit for editorial use because they don’t know how or where the image will be used.

Selling photos from an event in public areas will be accepted in all websites as editorial photography. Uploading a studio session with a model without a release can’t be done in some stock sites without a release, even if you just want to sell it as editorial. So it can be a case by case situation.

Credit: Left photo by Zane Lee; Right photo by Stephan Louise.

When you’re referring to editorial as a style, then it’s about storytelling . Your image needs to communicate what’s going on and get the observer involved.

Take these images as an example. The one on the left looks more like an advertising campaign as it’s only showing a brand and it doesn’t provide any context.

The photo on the right has an editorial style as it conveys a particular mood. It could be illustrating an article about the brand, or even be about lifestyle or traveling and have nothing to do with the car.

Editorial photographers can stage and produce an image, so there’s more creative control than other types of photography like documental or journalism.

And you’re not executing a client’s idea like you do in commercial photography . Although, you are going to be on assignment so you do need to follow the briefing.

Just remember that editorial style means that images should look natural and tell the message in the best possible way.

There are many types of editorial photographers, you can specialize in news and events or studio images recreating real-life situations.

How do you become an Editorial Photographer?

Credit: Alex Maloney

The first thing you need to do is decide what type of editorial photography you want to do. As I mentioned earlier, there are different areas to focus on and it will also depend on your skill level.

Once you decide what it is that you want to shoot, study your ideal customers and the kind of photography they publish.

How Much Do You REALLY Know About Photography?! 🤔

Test your photography knowledge with this quick quiz!

See how much you really know about photography...

Your answer:

Correct answer:

SHARE YOUR RESULTS

Your Answers

For example, if you choose to be an editorial travel photographer, find the type of magazines that you’d like to work with.

You won’t find the same type of photographs in Conde Nast Traveler that focuses on luxury trips and destinations, as the ones from Backpacker’s magazine targeted to adventure travelers.

Once you have a better idea of what you want and need to do, go out and practice. The more you practice, the better you’ll become. There’s no shortcut to it.

Credit: The Creative Exchange

From that practice, start putting together a strong portfolio. That’s your best presentation card. All that’s left from here is finding the clients.

There are few ways to go about this, for example, try working on your own and then selling the final project to a publication.

It’s difficult to get assignments as a first step. This of course depends on the type of photography.

If a magazine doesn’t know you, they might be reluctant to send you out to cover an event. It’s a liability for them to send someone that they don’t yet trust to cover something that happens only once.

In these cases, it’s easier to go out as a freelancer and then contact the editors to offer your images.

Other types of editorial jobs are easier to get in advance if you have a compelling portfolio that fits the style of the client. For example, a food magazine.

If you have to illustrate a story about a certain ingredient or dish, then you’ll be working in a studio or location under controlled circumstances.

So everything depends on what you want to do and how to approach it. You can start by assisting other photographers too.

Don’t forget about stock photography websites. This is an extra income for most editorial photographers.

How much does an Editorial Photographer make?

The website Glassdoor marks an average of $30,367 for an editorial photographer based in the United States.

While PayScale says editorial photographers make an average of $46,005 plus $1,028 in bonus, $5,500 in commissions, and $989 in profit sharing.

This will be different in each country of course, and the type of work you have. It’s not the same income if you’re freelancing as opposed to being employed by a magazine. It will also depend on a photographer’s skill level.

It will also depend if you do editorials for publications or you sell your images in stock. You can do both things, just be careful about the licenses.

If you sold your editorial photos to a magazine and you gave exclusive rights for a certain period of time, then you can’t sell them as stock photos until the license has expired.

What is the Difference between Commercial and Editorial Photography?

Credit: Sebastian Herrmann

The main difference between both types is that commercial photography is trying to sell, while editorial is informing or illustrating.

Sometimes it’s difficult to understand the difference because the same image can be both things depending on how it’s used.

Look at the example image here, this photo can be both editorial and commercial depending on how it’s used. If you’re writing an article about headaches affecting performance in the workplace and you illustrate it with this image, then it’s editorial.

If instead, you put the logo of a headache medication and place it as advertising for that brand, then it’s commercial.

What is a ‘Commercial’ Image?

Credit: Tim Gouw

Commercial photography is intended to sell a specific product or brand. For example, you could use this photograph for marketing the coffee brand Illy.

Used as a commercial image, you need to have releases for any item that is subject to copyright, as well as the one from the models.

A release is a contract or written permission to use their image. This means a model release for each subject, a property release from the cafeteria, one for the fashion brand of the model’s wardrobe, etc. Basically, anything that shows and is recognizable.

Model releases are common with fashion photography, fashion editorials, and even when the subject photographed isn’t even a professional model.

This is because not only logos are copyrighted, designs are too. For example, if there was a parked car, you would need a permit to use it as commercial photography, even if you can’t see the name of the brand.

If there’s no problem with the design but there is a logo, then it’s easy to erase it using the Healing brushes or the Clone tool in Photoshop by any photo editor or creative director.

In this case, you would have to erase the Nikon logo from the camera, or the Mac logo from the laptop that the model is using.

Some other examples that use commercial photography are:

• The images in the brochure of a gym.
• The photographs from an advertising campaign or other advertising purposes.
• The images in sponsored ads on social media.
• The photos of a product on its packaging.
• Images on commercial websites, that includes your own if you’re a professional photographer . So, make sure you have releases when you create your portfolio.

Now let’s take a look at another commonly misunderstood term.

What is an Editorial Image?

All rights reserved. Credit: Maarten van den Heuvel

An editorial photograph tells a story, usually accompanied by text although not always. Based on what I told you before about the commercial images rules, you might be thinking that everything is fair game as long as it’s used as editorial. But, it’s not.

The first limit for editorial use is the right to privacy. So, you can’t use a photo that infringes on the rights of people.

There was a time when photographing people in public spaces wasn’t a problem. As Diane Arbus once said: “One of the risks of appearing in public is the likelihood of being photographed”.

But this is not the case anymore in some places. A crowd is generally not a problem, but when one person is the obvious subject of the picture, then you need to check the local laws even if they are in a public space.

To be on the safe side, I’d recommend always getting a release.

Another case where you can’t photograph and much less publish images of people without their consent is in the privacy of their home.

If you’re on the street and turn to the window of a building to photograph it, make sure that no one from the inside is visible. Otherwise, you will need a release.

Children are also off the table in most situations unless you have the parent’s or legal guardian’s consent.

It’s not just people who represent a liability when doing photography for editorial use, also private events or locations.

Let’s say that there’s a parade on the main street of your town, that’s OK. However, if it happened in a private venue that was open to the public, this doesn’t mean you have free reign as a photographer.

In this case, you can either get the property release or register as press and use the pass as legal permission for you photographing and publishing the event as editorial.

It’s not all prohibitions though, for this type of photography it’s not a problem if there are any logos showing.

Some other common examples where you can publish photography for editorial use:

• A recipe with step by step photos in a cooking magazine editorial.
• A local newspaper with stories talking about an annual community event with photos from each year.
• The contact page of a website illustrated with a photo of a keyboard or a phone.
• The photographs that illustrate these articles for educational purposes.

Final Words about Editorial Photography

I hope I made things clearer for you regarding what is editorial photography. Please consider that this is in no way a substitution for legal advice regarding licenses, release forms, or usage rights.

This is not a clear cut matter – it’s more of a case by case situation. Sometimes it needs to be solved in court, so I strongly advise you to always be on the safe side. Get the releases even if you’re not planning to use your images for commercial purposes.

If you’re unsure about editorial and commercial licenses, check stock websites because they usually have very good explanations on what you can or can’t use.

Also, remember to be respectful of people. If someone on the street or an event that you’re covering asks you not to photograph them, just don’t do it.

I know there are many rules and it can sound confusing but to sum up, it comes down to deciding if you are informing or advertising. Is your photo used to illustrate or to sell?

If you have any other advice or tips on how to license images, understand editorial photography or recommend a stock agency, share it in the comments section below.

Check out these 8 essential tools to help you succeed as a professional photographer.

Includes limited-time discounts.

You'll Also Like These:

Ana Mireles is a Mexican researcher that specializes in photography and communications for the arts and culture sector.

Great article but you didn’t touch on charging for assignments.

This really helped me in finding the concept to use in my editorial photoshoot.. thanks Ana

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

🔥 Popular NOW:

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

Editorial Photography - A Guide to Creating Editorial Photos

Want to learn how to create editorial images? Here is a complete guide to editorial photography with tips to create a strong editorial photography portfolio.

Editorial photography is a curious term that seems a little bit harder to define. Unlike commercial photography, which has a clear intent and purpose, editorial photography is often presented to tell an entirely different story.

News organizations use editorials to tell a story or illustrate a written piece. As a result, editorial photography examples pop up in all sorts of publications, both in print and online. They cover the gamut of life, from fashion shots in Vogue to small-town news stories in your local paper.

Let's take a look at this fascinating segment of the photography industry, and look at some ways you can boost your editorial potrait photography portfolio along the way.

What is Editorial Photography?

Some types of photography are pretty cut and dry, with clear definitions. But editorial work is different. This is partly because the word editorial is used to encompass several different things.

Even in writing, editorial is a multifaceted word. On the one hand, the "editorial team" consists of all of the people who get material ready for publication. On the other, as a noun, it refers to articles where editors give their opinions on topical issues.

In a broader sense, "editorial content" is writing in a newspaper or magazine with some purpose other than selling something. In a newspaper, it includes all the news stories, obituaries, sports, or entertainment news. In a magazine, it includes all of the articles that aren't advertisements. Here is an  list of photography magazines that you should be reading,

So how does this apply to photography? Like in writing, editorials are meant for publication. To that extent, they're like commercial photographs - taken with the intent to be printed in magazines or newspapers. Here is a guide to commercial photography , if you would like to read more on the subject.

But with photos, it's essential to clearly draw the line of intention with an editorial. 

Editorial images add to the story - they are there to communicate something to the viewer. But whatever that something is, it isn't to sell a product.

Editorial work is commonly compared to commercial photography, but there are some significant differences. See the section below to understand what is an editorial photoshoot and more about these two types of photography .

Understanding Editorial Style Photography

The word editorial is used differently in photography by different companies, so it's important to verify your requirements before proceeding. Are you looking at the term from a legal standpoint or from a creative one?

For example, many stock companies allow for commercial or "editorial" licenses. As a photographer, you must choose which one you are uploading. There are important legal differences between the two in this case, so it's crucial to read the fine print.

In licensing certain photographs, the word editorial is used to note photographs that cannot be used in advertising. Instead, they are for informative purposes only. In a few cases, this sort of image does not require the standard model or property releases to be sold. Read more on how to license your photography works .

On the other hand, you might be referring to an editorial as a style of photography. Some people are interested in taking a specific type of editorial photograph, for example, fashion editorial photography. Read more on fashion photography in our article for those who want to master the craft of creating images of the fashion world.

Another common type of editorial is photojournalism . This goes hand-in-hand with the newspaper and news magazine business. But, of course, this type of photography is used all over the web and social media now, as well.

Editorial Photography Examples

Here are a few examples of where you might find editorial images used.

• Step-by-step recipe photos in a food magazine
• Event photos from a local charity fundraiser or sports game
• Photos used to illustrate articles for education
• Travel photos in a magazine not associated with a resort or brand
• Photojournalism

How to Shoot Editorial Style Photography

Find your story or concept for editorial photos.

• Create a Mood board for Editorial Photography
• Find your model for Editorial Photos

Get a Production Team for Editorial Photography

Scout for locations for editorial photos, direct the shoot for editorial photography, photography gear for editorial shoots.

• Editorial Post Production

There is more process to creating an editorial picture than there is in other areas of photography. Since editorials are all about the story being told, messages implied, and the viewer's emotions, editorials are all about planning and careful execution.

Editorials are also highly dependant on a creative vision. When you're one photographer working on your own, it's easy to keep the vision clear in your head. But when working with a large team, organization and clear communication are key. Here are some expert tips on creating aesthetic pictures .

Most shoots begin with a creative brief written by the company for whom the work is being completed. This brief is basically your job description, and it's going to tell you what the company is looking for. But they hired you not only for your skill in fulfilling the brief but also for your creativity in how you will complete the job.

Creative briefs are a vital part of any shoot for publication since they will clearly outline the goals of the final product. But the creative team, or in some cases the photographer alone, will be responsible for coming up with all the "who, what, when, why, and how" details.

The first thing you'll want to scope out when you receive the brief is what the concept is that you're editorializing. It might not be included because some briefs layout precise details but don't dive into the creative side at all. More often than not, you'll know what the image is being used for, but then why is up to you to polish.

Spend some time working on your vision and figuring out a compelling story to tell with your images. The more time you spend in these early stages formulating a plan, the easier the rest of the process will be.

Create a Mood Board for Editorial Photography

A mood board is a collection of inspirational ideas that you find online. For example, Pinterest is basically a social media network built on the idea of mood boards. Here are 15 great tips on how to create a great mood board .

In professional creative photography, mood boards are used to collect ideas that may or may not make it into your final project. It's part of your research, and you can think of it as a sort of competitive analysis. Search other publications that are similar to your client's, and look for similar projects. What concepts are they trying to communicate, and how did they do it? Find as many editorial photography examples as you can that might help you later.

But mood boards don't have to be that deep. You often might see an element that you really like - one that sparks an idea or a burst of creativity. Maybe it's the wardrobe or hairstyling choices, or may it's the type of model or the setting. Whatever it is, add it to your mood board with editorial photography ideas.

The goal of the mood board is two-fold. Firstly, you want to collect these ideas to better help you formulate your own concepts. In the end, it will help you pull off your shoot by giving your ideas a place to get organized. Secondly, these boards are also a vital part of the teamwork process on big projects. The mood board is shared, and multiple team members can add to the board and make notes.

Big projects might have many different boards and many different revisions as the ideas and concept gets revised. However, as the project moves forward, the favourite concepts get distilled on the mood board, and they start to appear more prevalent. This is when you know you are narrowing your ideas down to your final concept.

Find Your Model for Editorial Images

Of the things you work out through planning, picking your models is one of the biggest. Nearly all editorial work involves models, but the models that work for commercial shoots may or may not work well on editorial ones. Here is an article on different types of models in the fashion world.

For this reason, it's essential to focus on the emotional content of your brief and of your plan. The model will be responsible for communicating these concepts to the viewer, and picking a model with the correct skillset will save you a lot of time and frustration in the future.

And then, of course, there are the pure aesthetics of the model and the image you want to produce. But, again, it's not uncommon for your client to lay out many specifics here since the model often represents the publication's target market or story idea.

Editorial shoots have many moving parts, and you'll want to have an experienced team at your side. You may be responsible for finding your help, or your client may put the team together themselves. At a minimum, most shoots include makeup artists, costume designers, and wardrobe specialists.

Now you have your models, and your creative team put together, where will you work? Again, the details of this may be laid out for you in the creative brief. But many times, there is a lot of flexibility. Depending on the type of project, you may find yourself flying all over the world on editorial shoots. On the other hand, some photographers might never leave the studio!

Once all the planning is done, it's time to take the money shots. As you might have guessed, this is a team endeavour. With so many moving parts, communication is vital. Every team needs a leader, and while there might be a director in your team, the photographer has the final say. The photographer is the only one who can see through the lens and know what the final product will look like. As such, their word goes.

Editorial images are used for print in high-end publications. As such, they require the best technical abilities coupled with the best equipment.

Most editorial photographers use the best full-frame DSLRs. They usually have at least two requirements for their equipment. First, they need it to be portable enough that they can shoot anywhere. Secondly, they need it to be expandable and settable enough to get any shot they ask for it.

Editorial images are often more demanding than other types of photography to get right technically. Getting the lighting, exposure, focus, and poses right may take many tries. The photography equipment you use needs to expand with your vision. This usually requires having a complete kit of lighting and lens options. Usually, prime normal and portrait lenses with the widest apertures available are used.

This type of photography is also often done in diverse locations, so photographers need to consider what gear gives them the most options when they pack their gear bags. While preference is given to heavy and reliable equipment, that gear also needs to be packable enough to be used anywhere.

Editorial Post-Production

The post-production from an editorial shoot depends significantly on the content and the final use. Every project is unique.

In general, editorial images that you see in magazines are highly polished for that perfect look. Much like advertising images, there are few things off-limits in this type of photography. Editorial photography editing is done to help better communicate the overall goal and story of the image. If the image is for journalistic and newsgathering purposes, different rules apply to how they should be edited after capture.

Fashion Editorial Photography

Fashion editorial photography focuses on the mood instead of selling the clothing item or product. During a fashion editorial shoot, models may be wearing specific clothes or showing off makeup techniques. The purpose is to convey a mood, tell a story, or discuss current events.

For example, if a celebrity or politician makes a particular fashion statement, a magazine may run an article showing readers how to get that specific look. The purpose of this article is to discuss current events and show readers a process, rather than sell them particular brands. In this example, the magazine editorial staff have requested the article and will pay for its production. If this were an ad for clothing, the clothing manufacturer would pay for the photography and then pay advertising fees.

In another example, a fashion magazine may have noticed that their readers are interested in reef-safe sunblock. The magazine may then do a compare and contrast article to help readers understand the different types of sunblock available. The photographer may be given a brief asking for photos of models showing the sunblock. The photos may be similar to advertising photos. However, their purpose is different.

Understanding the Difference Between Editorial and Commercial Photography

Commercial photos are pretty easy to understand. The entire purpose of commercial photography is to convince the viewer to use or buy products or services from a particular brand. Most tellingly, the photographers are usually hired by that brand.

You can think about commercial work as a form of advertising for the company. Many creative aspects go into posing and composing this image. And there is a story to be told - but that story is that you should buy the product.

Editorial images sometimes look very similar, but the story and the message are different. Editorials are not about buying something--they are simply about telling a story. Instead of a product or brand, the editorial tries to sell the viewer on a concept. The goal is to express the writer's point of view or story in a visual way.

It doesn't help the confusion that many commercial images try to make themselves look like editorials. If you think about it, it makes sense that a good commercial ad wouldn't just sell you on the beverage and the brand. Instead, it would communicate other ideas, like thirst, satisfaction, or how much you deserve a treat.

Editorial Photography Jobs

Editorial images cover a wide range of topics and specializations. As such, the first step to working in the field is to decide precisely what sort of photographs you'd like to be taking.

A good starting point is to familiarize yourself with the magazines that most closely align with your interests. For example, if you're interested in fashion, study the images used in Vogue or Harper's Bizzare. If you'd like to do travel photography, pick up the latest Conde Nast or National Geographic Explorer.

Editorial photography is not for everyone. It often involves working with a large team to put a shoot together. This contrasts with other types of photography, which can be a solo profession.

Shoots are also often quick-changing as creative ideas ebb and flow. Photographers must adapt quickly and think on their feet. Like a wedding photographer , you might be capturing candids in between posed shots.

How Can You Get Work as an Editorial Photographer?

Breaking into the field of editorial photography is not unlike any other type of photography. You start by researching to learn everything you can about the type of photography, how it's shot, and who is best at it.

Once you start to learn about it, start to shoot it! Set up your own editorial shoots. Your goal is to start building a quality portfolio, so think of editorial photography ideas and do your own editorial product photography projects to hone your own skills. Put together as many editorial photography examples as you can to fill your portfolio. Show that you can communicate different types of concepts and ideas to suit the needs of many different types of clients.

Once you've got a solid online portfolio built of your projects, start looking for projects that you can do for money. You can search online job boards, or you can look in your local community. It's usually easier to start out with small regional publications--don't hit up Vogue as your first job.

It takes years to build a portfolio of work that will land you those top-tier jobs. But the path is fun and rewarding, especially for photographers who enjoy the creative aspect of it.

Building Your Personal Brand in the Editorial World

A career as an editorial photographer is a little different than other areas. As we touched on previously, there is a lot of teamwork in the editorial process. You'll be communicating and sharing ideas and bouncing ideas off other team members to get their feedback and input.

Your clients are also different. For example, you aren't necessarily working for a portrait client or shooting a wedding. Instead, you're working business to business, and a publication hires you.

To have a successful future in this type of work, you'll want to practice the best business and professional skills you can muster. Always be punctual and professional. Treat your coworkers, team members, and clients with respect. In other words, make them want to work with you again.

There's a thin line out there for artists who are hired for their creative vision. You may very well consistently produce the most beautiful images in the business. But if no one wants to work with you more than once, you will find yourself struggling to get repeat business.

How Much Does an Editorial Photographer Make?

According to PayScale, the average editorial photographer in the US makes around $47,000 per year. Of course, this is the average. When you just start out, you will make much less, and those that have mastered the field and work for the best publications make much more.

But when compared to commercial photography, the pay for editorials is much lower. It makes some sense--most of the money in these publications is coming from the ads. Traditionally, news organizations are strapped for cash.

Another vital factor to take into account is the amount of competition in the field. For example, in the field of editorial images as photojournalism, the landscape is much different than it was a decade ago. With everyone carrying smartphones everywhere, the news is often captured as it is happening by the people it's happening to.

So not only is editorial style photography a competitive field, but it's also one that has been diminished to some extent by crowdsourcing.

Most editorial shutterbugs rely on other means to make their big bucks. Many moonlight as commercial photographers to supplement their income. Others work for as many publications are they possibly can, and they also sell their images to stock companies.

Editorial style photography is a rewarding career and a fascinating type of artform. There are a few better ways to exercise your creative vision and create transformational and impactful images.

Editorial photography examples are all around you once you start looking. It's a kind of photograph that isn't on many photographers' radars, but it really should be. There are tons of opportunities and lots of growth potential, both in print and on the web.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is an example of editorial photography? The cover photographs of magazines like Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar are examples of editorial photographs. While editorial photography is not limited to fashion magazines and publications alone, it is most widespread in the fashion genre. 
• What makes a good editorial photo? A good editorial photo should be able to tell a story through images. Since editorial photographs are shot to accompany a larger article or story, the photographs should be able to add more depth to the story and in a manner illustrate it.
• How do you describe editorial photography? Editorial photography is a genre of photography which is commonly used to accompany articles and interviews in publications like magazines, periodicals etc. Editorial photography is designed to tell a story and as such tries to create a visual narrative through photographs.

Try Pixpa - the easy, all-in-one portfolio website builder loved by photographers & creators.

Explore More Articles See all articles

Top-rated by creatives for 10+ years

All-in-one website builder for creatives.

Build Your Website

Start an Online Store

Sell Images

Marketing Tools

Client Galleries

Photo Gallery Apps

Start a Blog

Creatives love Pixpa

15-day free trial. No credit card required.

Beautiful Templates Made for Creatives Awesome Support Really Easy to Use Affordable Pricing

Rated as top website builder by creatives for 10+ years.

What's new on Pixpa

Watermarkup Blog

Editorial Photography: What It is and Best Ideas to Take Editorial Photos

Table of Contents

What is Editorial Photography?

Editorial photography is the art of taking photographs to illustrate a story. It has been around for over 100 years and it is still an important part of journalism today. The pictures are used as illustrations, not just as decoration. They help tell the story in a way that words cannot do alone, and they can be powerful in their message even when they don’t show anything at all!

Understanding the Types of Photography

What is Editorial Fashion Photography?

Editorial fashion photography is a type of photography that is often used to promote and emphasize the clothing being worn by the model.

Fashion photography has many meanings. Editorial fashion photography is often seen in magazines and blogs as images that depict the look of a particular designer or style for which someone may be presenting at an upcoming event, say a runway show. These photographs are usually made to resemble editorial magazine spreads with cutouts on either side to allow more pictures within one frame.

Editorial Fashion Photography is a genre of photography that captures fashion in its various forms. Editorial photographers are often commissioned by magazines to shoot runway shows and editorials for the publication, but they can also be hired independently or as part of teams on commercial projects such as advertising campaigns.

Editorial Fashion Photography is an important facet of contemporary culture because it embodies not only aesthetics, but cultural understandings about beauty ideals and body politics which still play out today through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Editors may also hire freelance photojournalists who have experience shooting journalistic stories from all over the world; these types of assignments sometimes require long-term commitment overseas because they can last several months before publication date arrives back home. Partnerships between editors, stylists, designers and marketing professionals help fuel new ideas about what will be popular next season’s styles by showing how different pieces could look together when worn by real people in everyday settings – without having to spend any money!

Some Editorial Fashion Photography Examples

The photos below are some examples to show you how editorial fashion photos look like. You can study the photos and learn more about this type of photography. Later in this post, we also include some more examples for you to study and replicate. You can replicate the way models pose, the lighting, composition, and background of the photos.

What is the Difference Between Editorial and Commercial Photography?

Editorial photography is a type of work that’s produced for publication in news media or any other kind of mass communication where images are used as illustration rather than advertising purposes – Editorials may be paid by sales revenues from distribution rights and do not have an agenda either way on selling anything so it might also include pictures taken for newspapers, magazines, books etc… It does not mean they cannot enjoy artistic merit but there isn’t intention behind them to sell something specific like cars or clothes etc., while commercial photographers produce their works with intent to promote products such as soap detergent brands which can lead photos including models wearing those product logos prominently shown throughout the picture.

What makes a photo “editorial?” And what defines something as being “commercial?” In general, an image is considered “Editorial” when it doesn’t promote any specific product or service but rather just tells the story of a place or event in beautiful photographs. A photographer might take pictures for magazines like National Geographic magazine because they want them published so that people can see their work – not necessarily because there’s anything advertising in those images. Commercial photographers also take photos of things such as weddings, concerts, portraits etc., but these frames are used primarily to advertise products and services with logos plastered all over them!

Editorial photography is, as the name implies, more editorial in nature. It’s typically used for news and magazine articles or material that may be submitted to a publication with no financial interest by either party (i.e., stock photos). The images are usually accompanied by captions describing them–often on an elevated caption box of some sort so they’re not blocked from view when scrolling through content online–and often have commentary about what you can’t see happening behind-the scenes in the image itself. You might think this type of photojournalism would focus mostly on important world events but it actually covers everything from celebrity gossip to sporting events like NASCAR races! Commercial shots serve their purpose too: sell products and services which range widely across industries.

What is an Editorial Image?

An Editorial Image is a picture that has been selected to accompany a news story, especially one of interest to children. The image may or may not be relevant to the story, but it helps children understand what the article is about. It could be a photo, illustration, cartoon, diagram or an animation. An Editorial Image is often quite striking so is useful in breaking the information down for young readers.

Editorial Images should be relevant to the story and should also be interesting, informative and engaging to children.

A good editorial Image tells us:

• Who is in the picture? (It can be an animal, a person, or a thing like a car or a spaceship)

• What is happening in the picture? (Is there a fire, a battle, a wedding, a parade, a birthday party, etc.)

• What are they doing? (Are they running away from danger or jumping into a pool, kissing each other or hugging?)

• Why is it important? (It’s important because it tells you what the article is about. For example, a person might be on a motorbike to tell you about the pollution problem caused by cars.)

There are many ways to use an Editorial Image, but always bear in mind that the image must be relevant and help the reader understand the news story.

 What is a ‘Commercial’ Image?

A commercial image is a photo or a video that is made to sell a product or service. The purpose is to create an appealing ‘look’ that will entice people to want to buy your product. It’s important to note that this is not the same as a ‘personal’ image, where you make a picture for yourself.

A commercial image is different from a personal image, which could be something you take for yourself and keep, such as a holiday snap. Commercial images are used by businesses and professionals to help them market themselves, and they are used to sell products and services in magazines, newspapers and on television. If you look carefully at advertisements, you may notice that they usually contain one or more of these features: – It is shot in front of a ‘back drop’ or ‘set’ – the background is often a simple, neutral scene that helps define the image. – It is ‘posed’ with the person’s face looking straight at the viewer, with the head slightly angled towards the camera. – The person has their back turned to the camera, so they appear to be unaware that the camera is taking the picture.

To make an appealing ‘commercial image’ you will need a variety of equipment and tools. These could include: – a digital camera with good zoom – a tripod or other stand to hold the camera steady – a flash unit – different lenses, filters and lighting equipment.

How to Start Getting into Editorial Photography?

Editorial photography is exactly what it sounds like — photos taken for use in magazines, newspapers, brochures and more. These are not just the photos that go on the cover of a magazine but also those inside the magazine or on its pages.

Getting started in editorial photography isn’t easy. You’ll need to have a portfolio of published work that showcases your style and skill level. You’ll need to submit your portfolio to editors who hire photographers on a regular basis (for example, if you’re interested in shooting food images for magazines). You may also need to attend some photo conventions where editors will be present and looking for new talent.

Start small. You don’t need to go out and shoot for National Geographic right away — start small by shooting for your local newspaper or magazine. This will help you build up your portfolio, which will help when you’re ready to move on to larger publications.

1. Find a local publication

The easiest way to get started is to find a local publication or website that accepts photos from the public. You can find these by searching your city’s name followed by “submit photos” and “editorial photography.” For example, if you live in Seattle, you could search for “Seattle submit photos” or “editorial photography Seattle.”

2. Read their guidelines

Most publications have specific style guides for how to submit photos. These guidelines often include information about what kinds of photos they want, what format they prefer, what file sizes are acceptable, etc. Some even include examples of previous submissions that were accepted (and some that weren’t). Read through this information carefully before submitting anything! If you don’t follow the guidelines exactly, your picture might be rejected without even being looked at by anyone on staff — especially if this is your first time submitting to them!

Prepare your portfolio . In order to get into editorial or magazine photography, it is important that you develop your portfolio. A portfolio is basically a small collection of photographs which shows what you are capable of. In your portfolio, it is important to include work in a variety of different styles and photographic techniques. It is also very useful if your portfolio includes images with people in them, as this will show that you can work with actors who are not the public.

Take classes and workshops. Taking classes at your local college or university can be a great way to learn more about different aspects of photography, including editorial styles, lighting and more. Workshops can also provide additional training and are usually more affordable than taking classes at a university or college would be.

Join local organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) or the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA). These organizations offer opportunities for networking with other journalists as well as learning new skills through their various workshops and seminars (which are often free).

Practice your skills often. It’s important to have a solid foundation in the basics: composition, lighting and posing. Learn how to use your camera manually, so you can get consistent results every time you take a photo.

Once you’ve got those basics down, try shooting different subjects — people, places and things — as well as photographing from different perspectives (high angle vs. low angle). Experiment with different types of light sources to see what works best for each subject. Practice shooting portraits in many different environments (indoor vs. outdoor) until you find one that inspires you creatively.

Start doing research by reading books and magazines on the subject . Look at different photographers’ work and try to figure out what they do differently from other photographers. When looking at their work, ask yourself why it works — or doesn’t work — for you.

What’s the Difference Between Stock Photography and Editorial Photography?

The main difference between stock photography and editorial photography is often in the way they’re used and the amount of control over the image being sold. Editorial images are designed for journalistic purposes, meaning they should be instantly recognizable as being part of the news media or other mass communication material (like a magazine article). They may actually be copyrighted by someone but it’s not often enforced because there isn’t any profit in it – unless you’re using these pictures to sell something else. But if someone else were going to use those images to sell something, they’d most likely have to pay for the rights. However, editorial photographers use their images to further their own careers and get published.

It’s important to note that not all stock images are copyrighted and not everyone who contributes photos or other visual material to stock image sites is a professional photographer–meaning you can find some really good deals at times when it comes to these types of photos on certain websites!

There are also “public domain” photos which means the person who originally took them has made no attempts at copyrighting them. This also makes the picture 100% free because there is no cost associated with using it. You may only need one or two of these pictures for your blog but if you want something specific and can’t find a free photo on the internet that will do the trick, consider using this option.

Editorial images are often copyrighted but not typically enforced because it’s difficult to make money off of them – unless you’re trying to sell something they depict. People who use editorial photography for their own business ideas rather than monetizing them end up publishing them instead. Usually this means using these pictures in magazines or online print publications as well as marketing materials such as websites, ebooks, brochures and more.

What Are the Benefits of Editorial Photography?

The biggest benefit is exposure! One thing about technology expanding so much over the past few decades is that just about everyone has access to a camera phone at all times. The reality is that most people are only going to take pictures of things they enjoy or want to remember. If you shoot editorial photography, then there’s a high likelihood that your photos will be relevant to someone who reads that publication or website. Every picture in the magazine means money for the company which publishes it and every picture on a well-designed website can mean more traffic – so why wouldn’t they use them?

This type of exposure also translates into contacts and ultimately job opportunities in some cases. Many photographers have gotten their big breaks by being published in local papers or other small publications before moving up, either by submitting work directly (without having to pay an agency) or getting their foot in the door with larger companies simply because they already have experience working with editorial photography.

For a photographer, this is the most lucrative of any type of work because there’s usually no cost to submit your images and more often than not you’re getting paid for them!

What are the different types of editorial photography?

There are many different ways of photographing an editorial story, but each has its own particular strengths and challenges. Editorial photographers have to keep in mind that the end result should be a great image to use in a magazine or newspaper. There is no need to give up creativity just because you are working for a publisher.

The first type of editorial photo is a picture taken in a controlled studio environment. This is where you will find most of the high-quality photos taken for magazines and newspapers. The studio is where your models are photographed for a whole day, while your photographer shoots them and works on lighting and composition.

The second type of editorial photography is much more spontaneous, with models often not knowing they are going to be photographed until they are at the location. Often a model will go to a location that they are interested in and then the photographer arrives a few hours later and takes their photograph. It’s a good way of capturing a model’s personality.

There are a lot of pros and cons to both styles of photography, but we will talk about each of them in more detail below.

The first style of editorial photography is the traditional one, where a model is photographed by a photographer for a set period of time, usually all day, to create a perfect shot. It is generally considered a very controlled environment. Although this can be a fast and easy way of getting a number of high-quality pictures of a subject, it does mean that you will have a limited amount of time to shoot. In this situation, you might be asked to photograph a subject in many different locations and poses throughout the day. You will have to work quickly and shoot at an angle to get the best possible shot and ensure your subjects are not moving too much.

This style of photo can be quite difficult to achieve, as you must work with your model, the photographer and a lighting crew for a number of hours at a location to create something special. This is because you are usually looking for a single great photo, so it’s best to keep moving and to capture lots of images of your subject. The location should not be too big or complicated, otherwise it will become difficult to make any changes, such as a pose or location.

The second type of editorial photography is much more spontaneous. This can be good or bad, depending on how you plan and execute the shoot. With this kind of shoot, you need to be in close contact with your model from the beginning, to allow them to feel comfortable and happy. You will be able to photograph your subject anywhere, including places where you would not normally go.

It is easy to get carried away with taking too many pictures, but you must try to balance your work load to ensure you are working quickly enough to keep the flow of the session moving, without having to stop to take more photos.

In order to do this, it is essential that you have some knowledge of your model’s personality. This allows you to approach them in a friendly manner and makes it easier for them to become relaxed and comfortable. If you don’t know your subject well, it will be much harder to create a photo that has your subject’s character at its core.

The third style of editorial photography is somewhere in between the other two styles. In this case, you will probably need to know your subject well, but you will have more time to spend with them than in the previous style. It is not as easy to get everything right with this type of shoot, but there is less pressure to make changes quickly, because you have more time to do so. The most important thing is to allow your model to feel comfortable and have fun with you and your team. This will allow you to capture a number of unique images.

This style of shooting is also great for capturing a variety of poses and locations. It’s important to plan a few different shots in advance, as it can be difficult to predict what the final image will look like when you are on location. For example, you might be asked to photograph your subject at a beautiful location but with an awkward pose. You may have a whole day planned for a single shoot, but because the subject is not looking the way you imagined, you may not have enough time to do everything you want.

You will need to work fast and adapt to the situation, so it’s good to have some ideas about the best type of pose for a certain location, if there isn’t one already. Try to use your knowledge of your subject to plan their photo session, so that you get the most from your day.

Editorial Photography Salary

Average editorial photography salary in the United States is $47,000 tp $50,000 per year. However, the salary will vary based on your experience, knowledge, and skills.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical salary and benefits an editorial photographer can expect to earn, including a few different types of job you can get on top of this.

If you’re starting out as an editorial photographer, you’ll need to be a little more flexible than usual. Expect to make significantly less money than you would as a freelancer, as well as less travel and work-related perks like health insurance, sick pay, and company cars.

Editorial photographers typically work like a freelancer. This means that you’re self-employed, and it’s up to you to find clients, negotiate rates, manage your business, and keep track of your time. But always consider that the hardest thing when you get started is to find new clients.

When you haven’t had your own reputation, it is hard. But when you can develop your brand or have some existing clients, your past and existing clients can refer new clients to you.

You can get paid a number of different ways. Make sure that you always get paid because you also have to cover your expenses and living cost. One of the most common ways to earn money as an editorial photographer is through per-image fees, also known as a ‘rate’. These are pretty standard for most photographers, but you can also get paid a flat rate, or a per-hour rate. In both cases, you’ll still need to negotiate how many images you will get from each shoot.

Another common form of payment is through a monthly retainer. You’ll get paid a certain amount each month, which can range between $100 and $500 depending on the size of your operation. This is a great way to cover your living expenses, but you’ll have to be flexible with your work schedule, as there is no guarantee that your retainer will be paid in full each month.

A third option is a commission. This is similar to a retainer, except you won’t get a set amount of money each month, but rather a certain percentage of any sales you generate.

Editorial photography can be a lucrative career choice, particularly if you already have a solid portfolio of work under your belt, and if you’ve built a reputation as a reliable, dependable photographer. The more popular you are, the better you can get paid. But you should always focus on the quality of your images and services. That is the foundation for your photography business.

As with any new career path, do some research and see if there are any opportunities in your area, before you jump in. See what the local press is looking for and what they pay.

Editorial Photography Portfolio

If you want to design and create a portfolio of photographs for publication you need to be sure that your pictures are great and make the best possible use of all your skills. Here are some tips that can help you:

Before you start taking photographs alwIys think carefully about what you are trying to achieve with each shot. If you want to show a particular mood, emotion, or moment, you will need to make sure that you are aware of what you are trying to convey before you take the picture. If your photos are not clear enough, it is difficult to imagine how they will look in a magazine or newspaper. If you have several shots of the same subject, you may find that one image is more effective than another. If you think about your photographs first, you will be able to plan your shoot so that the most effective images are the ones you take.

The Importance of Lighting

Photographs taken in a well-lit room will show the best quality. However, if there is insufficient light, you will be forced to take pictures of your subject using flash. The use of flash makes your pictures look unnatural and the quality of the pictures will suffer.

The Importance of Composition

Composition refers to the way in which you arrange objects on the screen. It can make a photograph much stronger or weaker. Some photographers think that any picture can be improved by simply cropping it down to fit a standard size, but this will destroy the composition and make your pictures look dull and boring. Your camera’s settings may give you some control over the composition of your pictures, but it is better to plan your shots carefully in advance rather than try to guess what is going to work.

Getting the Best Shots

It is important to be aware of the different types of photographs available to you. Most cameras allow you to take close-ups, medium shots, and wide-angle views. However, many cameras will also allow you to take artistic compositions and special effects. The more time you spend planning your shots, the better the results will be. If you take the time to experiment with various ideas, you will have a greater chance of producing an excellent portfolio.

The Importance of Editing

All good photographers know how to edit their pictures. Most cameras allow you to delete unwanted objects or parts of the picture and adjust the lighting or color balance. You should spend time editing your pictures before you print them out or make them available for viewing on the Internet. Although the quality of a photo will usually be lost when it is digitally edited, you can still improve your images by removing distracting objects and making minor adjustments to the color balance, contrast, and exposure.

Editorial photography ideas

Find an interesting image and create a short story based around that photo. Use words, drawings, even your own photographs and videos. Be inventive, experiment and have fun.

You could also write a story based on a place you visit often. Maybe it is your favorite park or garden or even a museum. The possibilities are endless.

The below photos are some ideas for you to study. If you like the way the photos were taken, you can learn a lot from different aspects of the photos:

What Are the Common Tasks Associated With Editorial Photography?

You should be prepared to take photos in just about any environment or situation, so if you have a challenging assignment ahead like capturing an event like a sports game or press conference—then it may be best to do some research on how others have photographed similar events in the past before going into it blind. If you plan well enough then chances are good that your pictures could end up being published alongside other photographers who have shot similar assignments before – which means they’ll likely look better than ones taken by someone else who has no idea what he or she is doing.

Another important thing to note is that you may be faced with a tight deadline when shooting editorial assignments, so make sure your camera and gear are ready to go, just in case!

Do you need to know which lens and camera system to buy for editorial photography?

When shooting for editorial purposes, it’s important to use the right equipment. This is because a higher-quality camera and lens will produce high quality images that result in excellent photojournalism. A professional photographer should have at least one DSLR which can shoot RAW files without any noise or distortion so they are able focus precisely on their subject while still retaining detail in both light and dark areas of an image.

A wide-angle lens is usually the best type of lens for photojournalism as it can capture more than a standard zoom or telephoto lens. It’s also important to use a fast prime lens with minimal chromatic aberration, distortion and vignette when shooting in low light conditions. This will ensure you’re able to produce pictures in situations where other photographers might not be able to do so.

You need two lenses if you are an editorial photographer: one for portrait work and another for landscape photography. You’ll be expected to pick up any kind of assignment at short notice which could involve both kinds of work so having the right equipment means that you should be able to deliver high quality results on time even if it’s out of your comfort zone.

Have the Right Attitudes for Your Editorial Work

Aside from having the right gear, a professional photographer should know how his work can be used in different situations. He must also be able to convince his editor that it will produce higher quality results and get better coverage than if he were to use a different method of shooting or modify his expected deliverables. This is why it is important that you have a good understanding of what each publication expects when they accept an assignment from you as it will allow you to offer them modified versions of the photo they expect so they accept your final version with minimal changes which means more creative freedom for you.

As an editorial photographer , planning ahead and thinking about what might happen during a shoot is crucial. For example, if you are shooting an editorial piece on the current state of attention to one particular subject, it’s going to be impossible to take pictures of people who aren’t interested in that topic so you will have wasted your time and effort.

Another important aspect of planning ahead is choosing the best time of day for taking pictures as different times can produce drastically different results. If there’s a lot of activity at a specific location during the right time, then that’s when you should be shooting otherwise it might lead to wasted efforts in terms of both time and money spent on travel costs. It goes without saying that commercial shoots typically require more extensive planning than others but every photographer should still plan carefully regardless which type he wants to shoot.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to having more creative freedom as a photojournalist is to not get too attached to your work. You must keep an open mind so that you don’t miss out on the unexpected opportunities which can arise during or after a shoot. It’s easy to get excited by your initial ideas and visions but there’s no room for them if they won’t fit with the publication’s needs so getting rid of your ego will allow you to make better use of the kind of resources at your disposal like time, man power and equipment.

Familiarize yourself with camera settings before your shoot

It can be very challenging being able to carry out assignments in multiple environments involving different of subjects and different methods of shooting. It’s even more so if you are the only photographer on a shoot or the leader in your group because you’ll be expected to make fast decisions and deliver final results regardless what happens during an assignment.

This means knowing your equipment inside out which includes every setting from ISO levels to white balance settings, shutter speeds, f-stops and other modes. It’s important that you’re able to quickly change these settings without having to look at the manual each time because it reduces the risk of slowing down your workflow which can have negative impacts in terms of delays as well as additional costs for both travel expenses as well as call-out fees for additional labor.

Being familiar with camera settings also helps when working with other people because they will be able to work more efficiently with you if they know how best to assist you. Additionally, taking the time to familiarize yourself with your equipment means less stress in case of an emergency as it will enable you to quickly make decisions on what settings to use and act accordingly.

As a professional photographer , it’s just one aspect of being prepared for any situation that comes up on set or after delivery. It often helps when clients can explain exactly what the specifications should be but when this is not possible, having a good understanding of exactly how the camera works puts you into a better position than others who don’t have this vital information about their photographic devices.

Planning and developing a compelling story concept

– the importance of editorial photography for national brands.

Most brands focus on editorial photography for their ads and want to portray the message of their product. This includes pictures of attractive models, objects, or places. Editorial photography is a way to extend the brand’s story outward through other media channels. For example, if a company wanted to be environmentally friendly, they could have an ad with a picture of a natural environment in it or show how eco-friendly their manufacturing process is. It is not just about the product itself, but rather what it means to society and for the future. Most customers are drawn to brands that have a story to tell. Therefore, you need to create a narrative with your photos that is memorable in order for people to connect with your brand.

For example, Adidas has created a number of viral images inspired by the short film “The Book of Manning” which featured famous American football stars such as Peyton Manning and Odell Beckham Jr.. The story shows touching moments shared between father and son over time during training sessions and games. Their campaign was successful due to an honest portrayal of family love within reality together with their products used in sports activities. We can see how important it is for most national brands to have their own stories so they can communicate with their audiences effectively.

– The power of Instagram for national brands

The popularity of Instagram has grown dramatically over the last few years thanks to its simple and easy-to-use format. Today, it is one of the best platforms that allow users to share photographs and videos in an interactive environment. Therefore, lots of individuals as well as companies are building up followers on Instagram in order to reach out to them directly with new information or a promotion. Companies also use this platform to show off their products by shooting appealing images that capture attention and spark interest. For example, we can look at Apple’s latest Iphone X ad shoot which features a number of creators from different fields using the Iphone X to express their creativity in different ways. In addition, we can see that the campaign has been successful because of its unique idea and how it is created.

For example, many national brands have advertised on the Instagram in recent years, taking advantage of its simple and attractive layout design as well as the high popularity among users. Since they are then reaching out to a much bigger audience than before, they can use advanced ad campaigns by promoting their products or manufacturing locations globally without any barriers.

Benefits of Consistent Theme in Editorial Shoots

This is one of the reasons why it has become an essential commodity for a photographer to come up with a strong and consistent theme. This helps towards giving a brand recognition which would have otherwise been difficult to achieve. The consistency in the theme also makes it easier for all the shoots of an editorial. The outfits and locations are then easily matched, which is not usually possible if there is no consistency in the theme.

Tips on how to get the most out of your editorial shoot budget

– Follow the deadlines for submitting your story to the publication

– Don’t be afraid of an initial cohesive and tight shot, they can always pull focus and create a more emotional set up later on

– Know what you’re shooting and why you need it – plan your mood boards accordingly

– Don’t forget to add the lens and camera details when submitting your shot, get that right first time!

– Ask yourself what kind of story are you telling, can you tell it with pictures? Or an interview would better suit the narration?

– Lighting is crucial. Plan out how you will light your subject and purpose each light in the room for a specific purpose – don’t forget to label them (either verbally or physically) so your stylist knows exactly where they need to be at a certain point.

-“Prepare as much as possible before hand” Preproduction/Planning stage: Be aware of things such as possible weather conditions which could affect the shoot day; set design… All the unexpected things can ruin your shoots, so please pay attention to this stage.

How to best pitch editorial concepts

It is important to write specifically when pitching an editorial concept. Make sure you know who your audience is and what they might be interested in. It’s also important to chat about the specific angle of the story, how it ties in to cultural (or other) events, and why it’s relevant.

You should also briefly describe what sort of content this story will cover, what makes this a unique trend or angle, and how it will make a difference in the lives of readers. You should also talk about any supporting materials that you have for the pitch: visuals like photos or graphics, quotes from experts or authorities on the topic (if applicable), links/citations to previous publications with similar topics that back up your claim with evidence and draw on a larger readership, etc.

Besides pitching your story idea directly to an editor at The Atlantic, you could pitch it through their blog post submission form on TheAtlantic.com . Also keep in mind that some of the blogs or departments you should pitch this story idea to may be specific location-based verticals (e.g., Canada ).

Getting featured on one of these blogs is another great way for sites and pages with less overall traffic to drive more visitors (and get social shares) from other sites by getting linked to by more popular content.

In most cases, however, you want to provide any pertinent links (like press/news releases, supporting materials, related stories from the site with similar topics

When you finish taking a picture, take some more time to post-process it

Post-process your editorial photographs to make them the perfect finishing touch for an article. The key is a balance between clarity and beauty: you want readers to be able to see details in order to better understand what’s happening but also want those same readers’ eyes drawn towards something beautiful enough that they’ll spend more time looking at it than reading text on their phone screen! First, convert your images from RAW format into JPEGs so that all of the editing can happen uniformly without breaking anything else (ie., increasing contrast or levels too much). Then get rid of any distractions like noise by using Photoshop tools such as Reduce Noise which will bring up detail without adding artifacts; denoise with Neat Video Pro 3; and fix exposure problems if needed using Exposure. Next, tweak the color balance in Camera Raw or your favorite RAW converter of choice to make each photo look like it belongs in the place where it was taken–for instance, make outdoor photos look bright and golden while indoor photos are deep and blue. Then run them through a sharpening filter such as Smart Sharpen so that they stand out against any text on top of them without looking too fake or pixelated; a good guide is to set the Amount somewhere around 70-150% with Radius 0.8-1px, Detail 230%, and Masking 50%. If you’re editing images for an article about cats then add some cute blur (Cat Eye Blur) to make everyone swoon! Finally, tidy up any stray hairs with the Clone Stamp tool or Healing Brush and clear up dust spots with Spot Healing Brush before saving and uploading.

How do you take editorial photos?

Take your photos with a DSLR camera set to JPEG or RAW, so that the editing can happen uniformly. You will want to have your camera on a tripod or stable surface so that your images are sharp and clear. Make sure you have good lighting and position yourself close enough to the subject. Don’t be afraid to take many photos- it doesn’t hurt!

A well-lit room and a small tripod are all you need to take professional photos.

Lighting is one of the most important factors in editorial photography, so be sure your subject has plenty of natural light or use an artificial light source like lights from lamps for added brightness. Use some sort of stand — we recommend a mini-tripod–to hold up your camera with minimal shake; this will create clearer images that don’t blur at low shutter speeds when photographing subjects moving quickly (running). The other key element: being close enough to capture detail without distortion while still providing perspective on what’s happening around them!

Photographers may be either commissioned to take editorial photos, or they might have an interest in art photography and do it as a hobby.

To become successful at taking pictures for magazines and newspapers, you first need assurance that the flash is off on your camera before pressing down on the shutter button. This will prevent any red-eye reflections from appearing in most cases because these flashes create bright light which can cause this type of reflection. To reduce blur when photographing moving subjects such as children playing catch with each other or cars driving by quickly, try setting up a tripod so that nothing moves while you’re shooting.

How do I become an editorial photographer?

There are many routes to becoming both an editorial and news photographer, but one of the most common is this: Take classes in photography at your local community college or university. Learn how to edit images with Adobe Photoshop software. Get experience working for free on small-time publications like campus newspapers as well as larger ones that include national titles such as The New York Times or USA Today until you can land a job shooting professionally published photographs from home.

Why is editorial photography good?

Editorial photography is a great way to showcase your work. Editorial photographers are able to capture the emotions, feelings and moods of their subject in an artistic manner without using any filters or editing software on post-production—just pure raw talent!

Editorial photography is good because it can help tell a story.

The purpose of editorial photography is to document the beauty and hard work that goes into making someone else’s dream come true. The importance of this type of photojournalism cannot be overstated, as they are used in magazines, newspapers, advertisements for products or services- you name it! Editorial photographs have helped people find jobs and make connections with others through meeting their subjects at an event where all parties happen to cross paths.

Editorial photography is a powerful tool in the hands of an artist. This type of photographer uses their lens to view and reveal life, artfully capturing moments that will be remembered for years after they happen.

What is editorial portrait photography?

Editorial portrait photography, is the art of capturing people in their most natural state.

The photographer will work with a person to show what they are really like and how others might perceive them through photos. They may also want to include captions that explain specific details about someone’s life or struggles which makes it all more relatable for readers who have experienced similar issues themselves or know somebody else going through these things. The best part? Editorial portraits tend not be overly staged because we’re able to capture something genuine during those sessions!

What is the difference between editorial and high fashion photography?

Editorial photography is a form of photography that is less commercialized than its counterpart, high fashion photography. Editorial photographers document what they see in front of them without using photoshop and other editing software. They are usually commissioned to take pictures for magazines, newspapers, and advertisements.

Which can make more money for a stock photographer editorial photography or commercial photography?

There is no definitive answer as to which type of photography can make more money. Photographers who do commercial photography tend to charge a lot more than editorial photographers, but there are also other factors that can determine how much someone makes from their work such as the prices of the goods they are selling. For example, if a stock photographer was selling an image for $100, and it was for editorial use, then they would likely make less money than a commercial photographer who sells the same image for $1000 because it’s being used in commerce.

What is the difference between fashion and editorial photography

In fashion, what does ‘editorial’ mean.

Editorial photography is usually used by a publication or company to promote products and services. One would normally expect to see the photograph in editorial style on the cover of a magazine, for example.

Fashion photography is used to document fashion designs/products or show them off in a particular way. For example, it might be the design of the clothes, the photographer’s vision for how they should be photographed, etc.

What is the difference between editorials and opinions in journalism?

Editorials imply a non-objective point of view. For example, nationalism is usually considered to be an editorial position rather than an opinion of fact. An opinion in journalism is like a social commentary that isn’t objective.

Editorials are centerpieces in newspapers or magazines that instill the publication’s values and views on particular subjects through articles or essays which are signed by the author. They generally employ punchy, persuasive language though they also include facts and statistics to back up their arguments with the intent being to sway readers into believing in something new; a purchase, for instance – or buying into an ideology such as nationalism where readers would no longer think for themselves but instead trust what they are being told implicitly since ‘authority’ (the editor) is telling them to.

How do We Write Editorial for Scientific Journals?

Editors are responsible for making decisions about which articles to publish. They are usually experts in the field of study that is the subject of the article, or have a good understanding of this area. The editor’s job is to ensure that any important research findings are published in an appropriate journal, and also to make sure they are correct and well written.

The editor usually reads the manuscript to decide if it is suitable for their journal. This involves making sure that the topic and content of the article are within the scope of their journal (i.e., falls within its remit). They must also check whether or not there have already been similar studies on this subject, because this may mean that a new study is unnecessary.

If they accept your paper then you will be asked to submit it in an electronic format (usually Word) and make any changes requested by the reviewers or editors. It is important not only to explain clearly what you did, but also why you did it. Have you tried anything else first? Did anyone help you? Were there any problems with the techniques or materials? What did you learn from the experiment? How does your result fit in with past research?

What are some examples of commercial photography?

Commercial photography is a type of photography that is typically done in order to show or sell something to the public. This can be anything from food, clothes, and general merchandise to real estate, cars, and animals. Commercial photography can be manipulated before being shown it the public in order to create a desired impression on the viewer.

Can a newspaper use my image without consent?

In general, a newspaper cannot use your photos without your consent. If they do, you can contact them for photo removal. If you have a contract with them and the contract has already specified about the use of your image, you need to refer to the contract to make sure that everything works fine for you and the newspaper.

To summarize, editorial photography is a type of commercial photography that has been manipulated to convey a desired impression on viewers. This may be used for anything from food, clothes and general merchandise to real estate, cars and animals. The only way to know if the photo you are viewing was taken with an editorial purpose in mind is by understanding the photographer’s intent when they took it – which can sometimes be difficult without context clues or knowledge about the subject matter. Editorial images typically have more artistic merit as their intention isn’t solely focused on selling something; but rather conveying meaning through imagery. However this doesn’t mean that there aren’t photographers out there who do both (editorial + commercial). If you’re interested in getting into one facet or another of these styles of photography I highly recommend finding a photographer you admire and asking them for advice!

Editorial images are typically manipulated in some way to create an artistic impression to viewers. This can range from simple techniques such as brightening or darkening an image (exposure correction) through to more complex processes, which could include combining multiple photos into one final piece. If you’re interested in taking editorial photographs that require the use of software then you will need to learn how to use these programs – there are plenty of tutorials online which show exactly how this is done so it’s entirely possible! Aside from software knowledge, it is important that your portfolio contains a variety of different styles. It can be useful to have styles which stretch the limits because editors will often look for photographers with artistic flair.

I like to think of commercial photography as simply providing a service or product which is sold in some way. It could be anything from somebody wanting you to photograph a wedding dress on the beach, to using your photographs of cars at night to sell more car lights! Commercial photography can be manipulated before being shown it the public in order to create a desired impression on the viewer – but this doesn’t necessarily mean that an image must be photoshopped; an obvious example would be faking snow using props and lighting techniques. In many cases, it can also just come down to styling – as in my case where I have styled flowers so they look fresh and beautiful.

Related posts:

• 17 Types of Models
• Best Tips for Film Noir Photography
• What is Vibration Reduction in Photography?
• How to Use, Edit and Share Live Photos on Your iPhone
• Tips for Photographing People When Travelling
• How to Photograph a Model
• How to Find and Work With Photography Models for Best Results
• Best Lens for Product Photography
• How to Resize Images for Facebook in Lightroom
• Best Tips for Taking Pet Rabbit Photography

3 thoughts on “Editorial Photography: What It is and Best Ideas to Take Editorial Photos”

• Pingback: Football Photography Tips for Photographers
• Pingback: What Is Commercial Photography? How to Get Started
• Pingback: How to take beautiful clothing photography

Comments are closed.

• 3D Modeling & Rendering
• Photo Editing
• Amazon & Marketplaces
• Apparel & Accessories
• Architecture & Interior Design
• Furniture & Home Goods
• Jewelry & Watches
• Portrait Photography
• Real Estate Photography
• Wedding & Event Photography
• How It Works
• Case Studies
• Customer Login
• Get Started

The Art of Capturing the Perfect Moment: A Comprehensive Guide to Editorial Photography

• by David Sinai

Editorial photography gives professional photographers immense creative freedom. The advantage of this limitless freedom is that it allows them to explore any concept or story that they imagine.

Editorial photography helps the readers visualize the author’s story. The significance of this niche in visual storytelling is huge, as it is frequently used to express an emotion or opinion. It can also be used to influence the audience’s viewpoint of a particular topic.

Editorial images record stories of human interest, such as current events and real-life issues, in a truthful manner. Contrary to other photography niches, editorial photography isn’t shot in a posed or studio style. As evident from the image below, it’s shot in a documentary or photojournalistic style.

This in-depth blog post will explore the key elements, techniques, and tips for successful editorial photography.

What Is Editorial Photography?

A. the purpose and context of editorial photography.

Editorial photography is unique because it aims to narrate a story or illustrate a concept. The primary motives are to express and engage. Unlike other photography niches, selling isn’t the priority.

Editorial photography is image-heavy because only a photograph can paint the whole story. It’s impossible to have a story without a photograph. Therefore, a photograph is the heart and soul of a story because it presents the evidence that the story actually happened.

You’ll find editorial photography in newspapers, magazines, journalism, and editorial features. This niche is totally different from commercial photography as it depends heavily on a story rather than on a brand.

Editorial photographers usually work with art directors and designers to create compelling images that fit with the publication’s aesthetic and enhance it. Hence, they must have a perfect understanding of the publication’s style and audience to effectively convey the desired message.

B. The Distinction between Editorial Photography and Commercial or Portrait Photography

The chief difference between editorial photography and commercial or portrait photography is the primary purpose of their use.

Editorial photography is primarily used to communicate stories in newspapers or magazines. But commercial photography is used for advertising a brand or product.

The use of models also differs. In editorial photography, the use of models is mostly not necessary. However, in commercial or portrait photography, models are hired with an image release agreement.

In editorial photography, permission is not needed from clients and their legal teams before the images are released. But, in commercial or portrait photography, permission is needed from clients and their legal teams before the release of images.

Outsource Photo Editing Services

Picsera offers photo editing and retouching, so you can focus on your business instead. Spend a fraction of the cost, time, and effort of photography with Picsera.  Click here  to find out more.

Types of Editorial Photography

Editorial photography is essentially for storytelling. It is used in various niches.

A. The Various Sub-genres of Editorial Photography

The following are the main sub-genres of editorial photography:

• Fashion Editorial
• Lifestyle Editorial
• Travel Editorial
• News Editorial
• Sports Editorial

B. The Unique Characteristics and Goals of Each Type of Editorial Photography

1. fashion editorial.

Fashion editorial focuses on capturing photographs of people in the latest fashions. You’ll see fashion editorial photography in online media, newspapers, and magazines.

Fashion editorial photographers must work quickly. Their main strengths include thinking on their feet and being prepared for anything. In addition, they must be extraordinarily efficient to capture the perfect moment.

The emphasis in fashion editorial is on the surroundings and the overall look. Dramatic eye makeup is used to highlight the eyes of the model.

Since adequate illumination is crucial, multiple illumination sources will need to be used. The goal is to enhance the dramatic tone of the photograph, and lighting is the chief component in achieving this.

2. Lifestyle Editorial

Lifestyle editorial focuses on capturing people in day-to-day, real-life situations but in an artistic sense. The goal of a lifestyle editorial photographer is to produce stunning results that bring to life the style and personality of the subject, subjects, a couple, or even a family.

Some examples of lifestyle editorial include a child riding a bicycle to school, young children playing on the street, a woman hanging clothes on a line to dry, and a man sitting on a bench in the park reading a book. All these images capture the ordinary elements of everyday life.

Bringing ordinary moments to life and depicting them like in a movie takes immense creativity. The elements of lifestyle editorial are the elements of the life of the subject, subjects, couple, or family. Hence, it’s important to know them or their relationship dynamics well to truly capture their personality.

The photographer will need to delve deep to make a difference. The photographs will be special only when the photographer knows their subject well.

3. Travel Editorial

A travel editorial photographer will capture the natural beauty and vibrant culture of a travel destination. By using a blend of wide-angle shots, they will highlight the breathtaking spectacles and close-up images that convey the friendliness and hospitality of the chosen locale.

The goal of travel editorial photography is to transport the viewer to their desired paradise. Travel photographers bring words to life by merging storytelling with their incredible photography.

A travel editorial photographer strives to create visual content that portrays a travel destination honestly and creatively. Their work must embrace authenticity and explore the road less traveled. Viewers must be able to connect visually with the images.

A travel editorial photographer must explore a place thoroughly before capturing its many features, such as places of interest, markets, nightlife, architecture, restaurants, and regular events.

4. News Editorial

News editorial photography means photos connected with time-sensitive news events based on conventional news values such as human interest, timeliness, consequence, proximity, conflict, and prominence.

Readers decipher visual information better and faster than they decipher text. That’s the reason they say, “A picture speaks a thousand words.”

The goal of news editorial images is to tell or support a story. A photographer can face potentially volatile situations when capturing new editorial photos.

Examples of news editorial events include weather, accidents, fires, meetings, and conventions. A news editorial assignment will give the photographer only one chance to get the most relevant photos. It won’t be possible to revisit the spot and do it again. Hence, their equipment must be light, and they must be prepared to take photos at short notice.

5. Sports Editorial

Sports editorial photographers cover sporting events such as tennis, golf, hockey, or rugby. They specialize in capturing photographs of a specific sport, like boxing, football, or cricket.

In the realm of sports editorial, timing is everything. A sports photographer will need to sharpen their expertise in capturing vital split-second moments.

The photographer must have deep knowledge of the sport and also have a natural interest in it. For instance, a photographer at a tennis match will realize the importance of clicking a photograph at the right instant to not miss a player serving an ace or making a crucial return of serve.

Sports editorial covers all sports and sporting events. Shooting moving subjects needs great focus. Photographers will need premium equipment to cover a fast-paced sporting event.

The Role of Editorial Photographers

A. the responsibilities of editorial photographers.

The main responsibilities of editorial photographers include:

• Storytelling mastery and conveying the message through compelling images.
• Ensure subjects are portrayed ethically and respectfully.
• Use the power of visual storytelling to influence public opinion in a positive manner.
• Highlight the strengths, challenges, and triumphs of the subject in an honest and unbiased manner.
• Avoid distorting the truth or misleading viewers.
• Uphold the values of truthfulness, ethics, consent, and privacy.
• Maintain ethical standards by not indulging in digital manipulation.
• Stay vigilant and informed, and refrain from fake news.

Desist from copyright infringement and misuse of intellectual property rights

B. The Skills of Editorial Photographers

The major skills of editorial photographers include:

• Having a superlative understanding of lighting, composition, and exposure.
• Having a keen eye for storytelling and capturing vital moments.
• Capturing visually captivating images and mastering post-processing techniques.
• Networking and developing a personal brand.
• Staying updated with industry trends.
• Sharing work portfolio on business websites and social media.
• Cultivating trust and credibility by delivering high-quality work.
• Diversifying skills and embracing technological advancements.
• Working under tight deadlines and unpredictable conditions.

Key Elements of Editorial Photography

A. composition and framing.

Composition is how the elements of an image interact, and framing is the method by which you compose an image, in which you draw the focus to a subject.

The Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds indicates dividing your photo into three uniform horizontal sections and three uniform vertical sections, as shown in the image below.

You can see two lines running from top to bottom and two lines running from left to right. Look at the points where these lines intersect. The main subject should be placed on one of these points.

Leading Lines

When you look at a photograph, your eyes are naturally directed to the lines within it. As a result, you tend to follow these lines to see where they go.

In the photo above, the lines are “leading” your gaze through the photo. The vertical lines draw you to the path and also give a sense of order.

How Does Framing Enhance the Narrative?

Framing brings context to a fleeting moment, helping you to communicate your narrative. Typically, the subject is isolated from the rest of the image using natural elements existing in the image.

Framing creates a visual boundary around the photographed subject or scene. It highlights certain elements, directing the viewer’s gaze to specific details. Framing also adds depth and context to a photo.

B. Lighting

The significance of natural light and artificial lighting.

Natural light offers depth and quality to photographs that can be difficult to recreate with artificial light. However, with artificial light, it’s easier to add drama, create a mood, or emphasize specific elements of the design.

Artificial light also gives you better control over the direction, intensity, and color of the light compared to natural light. Regardless of the light source, whether it’s natural or artificial, it’s all about how you use it that truly makes your photograph stand out.

Useful Tips for Using Light to Create Mood and Atmosphere

The position and quality of light will drastically affect the tone, clarity, and emotion of a finished photo. Note how the light bounces off of the subject’s edges and shadows. Based on your observation, improve your craft by making optimal use of the available light.

Your lighting decisions will depend on what you’re shooting—still life, landscape, or portrait. The mood you desire to convey and the features of your subject also play an important role.

While soft light tends to smooth over minor imperfections, harsh light will draw attention to non-flat surfaces and sharp angles.

Natural light is ideal for happy or melancholic images. It’s better to use artificial light to create a relaxed and flattering mood in your images.

C. Subject and Context

How do the subject and context interact in editorial photography.

You must include the surroundings of your subject and other interrelated objects when they complete the story your photograph is telling. That is, the surroundings and other objects give your photograph context .

Context denotes anything in a specific scene, other than the subject, that affects the meaning of the photograph. You can think of objects that give context as important elements of your photograph, without which it will not be complete.

For instance, consider the photograph of the smiling woman below. Although this picture may draw attention, it is incomplete. The viewer may wonder about the reason for the happy expression on the subject’s face.

By including the woman’s daughter in the composition below to give it context, the woman’s happy expression is explained.

The Importance of Research and Understanding the Story

Editorial photography is essentially storytelling photography—your images tell a compelling narrative. The images captivate viewers and engage them, making them connect with your story.

Hence, before you begin, you must research and try to understand the story from different perspectives. Imagine you need to capture a newsworthy event—such as a ceremony, protest, or even a political rally.

You must do your homework and make sense of the event from various angles before you arrive on site. Research the key players, find out about the scheduled activities, and understand the main objective of the event.

After your arrival, engage with different people involved in the event. Speak with them, listen to their viewpoints, and gain different perspectives.

Evaluate this valuable information. Now, focus your photography to narrate the story from all angles. Capture essential elements, ensuring your story is not one-sided. Shoot a series of images and strive to present a neutral account.

When you understand the story from multiple angles, it’s easier to create a compelling visual narrative that viewers grasp effortlessly.

D. Timing and Moments

The art of capturing decisive moments.

The concept of decisive moment involves a photographer waiting patiently for the perfect emotion, gesture, composition, and timing to come together to capture the perfect image.

Capturing the precise moment when a subject’s expression and gesture are just right is challenging. However, being patient and observant can be helpful.

Henri Cartier-Bresson was renowned for his uncanny ability to capture the decisive moment with a single click. He popularized decisive moment in 1952. He believed that a photo should be an authentic reflection of the natural world.

How Does Timing Contribute to the Narrative?

Timing is everything in editorial photography. Photographers are constantly struggling with when to press the shutter release button. It boils down to seizing that perfect moment.

Timing plays a crucial role in capturing an unforgettable image. It could be the fleeting emotion on a person’s face or the split-second a bird takes flight. Timing can make or break your photograph.

Your photograph becomes more valuable when it’s tough to replicate that magic moment. Hence, patience can be your greatest asset if you are serious about getting the timing right.

When you wait for that precise alignment of elements, your photo will stand out among thousands of near-misses.

The Advantages of Different Equipment Choices for Specific Situations

When you shoot for editorial purposes, you must use the right equipment.

A premium camera and lens will deliver high-quality images consistently. Hence, as a professional editorial photographer, you must own at least one DSLR to shoot RAW image files with practically no noise or distortion. It will be easier to focus precisely on the subject while you still retain maximum detail in all areas—both light and dark—of an image.

The best type of lens for most editorial work is a wide-angle lens because it can capture more detail compared to a standard zoom or telephoto lens. When you shoot in low-light conditions, it’s best to use a fast prime lens with a low chromatic aberration, distortion, and vignette. This will ensure you produce exceptional pictures in situations where other photographers might struggle.

Always keep two lenses in your photography kit—one for landscape photography and another for portrait work. Most of the assignments you get will be at short notice involving both types of work.

Having the right equipment at hand will ensure you deliver splendid results on time, even when it’s out of your comfort zone. But remember, having the best photography gear does not mean you’ll capture the best photographs. You must know how your camera works, select the optimal settings and understand how to use light to your advantage.

Techniques and Tips: Practical Tips for Aspiring Editorial Photographers

1. building rapport with subjects.

The essential part of an editorial photographer’s toolkit is chatting with your subject/s and making them feel at ease. It’s crucial to build a positive rapport, and there are several ways you can do this.

One of the best ways to break the ice is to ask the subject/s about themselves. Converse naturally and find out their interests.

Share some of your own interests, tastes, and experiences. For instance, you can talk about your hobbies, travel experiences, pets, musical tastes, star sign, etc.

The secret to building rapport with subjects is finding commonality, as it can take down defenses—theirs and yours, both conscious and unconscious.

2. Using Props and Styling to Enhance Storytelling

Props can enhance storytelling when every prop you include in your photograph says something about the subject/s. Props must be helpful in identifying the subject within your story.

For instance, red roses are associated with love and romance. Similarly, potted plants can enliven an indoor location. Likewise, weapons symbolize violence.

Styling is more subtle. You don’t simply throw some favorite things together and hope for the best. Styling is more about evoking a particular mood or feeling. You use visual elements to create a story.

The primary purpose of styling is intention. You must consider the idea you want to get across and the message you want to share.

Select the most appropriate objects and elements that will contribute to your overall idea. Also, consider whether your image is properly grounded. Check if there is a sense of flow and it feels authentic.

3. Maintaining a Consistent Style and Voice

Storytelling goes a long way in creating an emotional connection with your target audience and making your photographs more memorable. Hence, maintaining a consistent style and voice in editorial photography is crucial because it creates credibility, personality, and authenticity.

Since editorial photography is mostly freelance work, the major problem for most editorial photographers is that their work is too varied to stick to one specific style. Editorial projects are too varied and don’t allow them to stay in one particular visual comfort zone.

As you learn new techniques, your style and voice are bound to change. But maintaining consistency is still important, as it enables you to show your potential clients your unique style.

4. Incorporating Diverse Perspectives and Angles

Exploration and experimentation are vital elements of editorial photography. You need to incorporate diverse perspectives and angles to a certain idea. To do this effectively, apply your own creative style. Only then can you translate a story visually.

Over time, you’ll have a clear idea of the type of stories you like to capture. You will also develop your favorite lighting scenarios. Soon, you will see that when you put together diverse perspectives and angles, your photographs will take on a new life!

Post-production in Editorial Photography

A. the role of post-processing in enhancing editorial images.

When editing editorial photographs, retouchers and photo editors should focus on preserving the authenticity and integrity of the image while enhancing its visual appeal and storytelling impact. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind:

Maintain Authenticity:

• Retain the essence of the original image. Avoid over-editing that makes the subject appear unrealistic or overly polished.
• Respect the photojournalistic aspect of editorial photography, where truth and accuracy are paramount. Do not manipulate content to convey a false narrative.

Consistency with Style and Mood:

• Ensure that the editing style aligns with the overall theme and mood of the editorial piece. Consistency is essential for conveying a coherent narrative.
• Use color grading and tonal adjustments to set the desired emotional tone and atmosphere of the story.

Retouching Subjectively:

• Retouch skin and imperfections on the subject subtly, aiming for a natural look. Avoid excessive airbrushing, which can make subjects look plastic or unrealistic.
• Retain individuality and character in the subject’s appearance.

Enhancing Composition:

• Adjust cropping, framing, and alignment to improve the composition and visual flow of the image.
• Remove distracting elements or clutter from the background to draw focus to the main subject

Balancing Exposure and Contrast:

• Ensure that the image has balanced exposure, with no areas that are overly blown out (overexposed) or too dark (underexposed).
• Adjust contrast to emphasize or de-emphasize specific elements within the photograph.

Color Correction and Grading:

• Correct color balance to ensure accurate representation of the scene and subjects.
• Experiment with color grading to evoke specific emotions or reinforce the story’s narrative.

Dodging and Burning:

• Use dodging (brightening) and burning (darkening) techniques to selectively enhance or de-emphasize areas within the image.
• This can help direct the viewer’s attention to key details or create depth and dimension.

Maintaining Texture and Detail:

• Avoid excessive noise reduction or sharpening, as it can result in a loss of texture and detail in the image.
• Retain the texture of clothing, skin, and other elements to maintain a natural appearance.

Cropping and Aspect Ratios:

• Adjust the aspect ratio if necessary to fit the editorial layout while preserving the essence of the composition.
• Crop with care to avoid cutting off essential elements or altering the context.

Ethical Considerations:

• Be aware of ethical concerns related to image manipulation, such as altering the meaning of a photo, misrepresenting subjects, or invading privacy.
• Ensure that edits respect the dignity and rights of individuals portrayed in the image.

Collaboration and Feedback:

• Collaborate with the photographer or editor to understand their vision for the image.
• Be open to feedback and iterate on edits as needed to achieve the desired result.

Final Quality Check:

• Perform a final quality check to make certain that the image meets editorial standards, including resolution, color profiles, and file formats.

By focusing on these considerations, retouchers and photo editors can enhance editorial photographs while maintaining their authenticity and storytelling impact.

B. The Best Software and Techniques for Editing While Preserving Authenticity

• Adobe Lightroom Classic : Number One photo editing software.
• Capture One Pro : Best photo editing software for a team of professionals.
• Affinity Photo : Low-cost photo editing software.
• Skylum Luminar Neo : Best AI use to enhance images.
• Movavi Picverse : Cost-effective photo editing software.
• Corel PaintShop Pro : Advanced AI-powered tools for editing images.
• CyberLink PhotoDirector 365 : Top AI-enabled photo editing software.
• DxO PhotoLab : Best software for editing RAW images.
• ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate : Top Windows-based photo editing software.

Ethical Considerations

A. ethical concerns in editorial photography, such as consent, privacy, and truthfulness.

In photojournalism, obtaining consent from the photographed individuals is of utmost importance, especially when the photos are used in sensitive contexts. Therefore, it’s best to obtain written or verbal consent from your subjects.

The importance of maintaining privacy and confidentiality when photographing culturally or politically sensitive issues need not be stressed. Due consideration for privacy should also be given when photographing minors.

Publishing graphic images can result in distress to subjects and audiences alike. Hence, it’s crucial to strike a balance between truthfulness and sensitivity.

B. The Importance of Maintaining Journalistic Integrity

Photo manipulation distorts reality and erodes journalistic integrity. Therefore, editorial photographers must avoid altering photos and strive to preserve truth and objectivity.

Other essential features of photojournalism include providing contextual accuracy and fair representation. For instance, misleading captions can result in inaccurate reporting. So, the best way to ensure comprehensive storytelling is to avoid misrepresentation.

In international photojournalism, editorial photographers must also respect cultural norms and customs. They must scrupulously avoid images that might offend or misrepresent communities.

Inspiring Examples and Photographers

A. iconic editorial photographs and their impact.

Although the National Child Labor Committee was established in 1904, it was believed that seeing this powerful image of child labor would motivate the citizens to demand change.

This photo was taken after Eugene Smith had spent more than three weeks with the subject. Smith wanted to see the world from his subjects’ perspective and for the people looking at his photograph to do the same.

This photograph is a daring publicity stunt high above 41 st St. in Manhattan by 11 ironworkers having lunch on September 20, 1932. These men were habituated to walking along the girders of the building. It’s one of the most iconic photographs from the Big Apple.

This photograph is rightly considered as one giant leap for humankind . It was the result of President Kennedy’s endeavor to ensure a man stepped on the moon by the end of the decade.

This photograph is considered the greatest sports photo of the century. This iconic photo shows the power of Muhammad Ali, the most respected athlete in the country in the 1960s.

B. Renowned Editorial Photographers and Their Contributions to the Field

1. eve arnold (apr 21, 1912 – jan 4, 2012), 2. henri cartier-bresson (aug 22, 1908 – aug 3, 2004), 3. robert capa (oct 22, 1913 – may 25, 1954).

A war photographer, he captured photographs of some of the most brutal battles. Across Europe, his work covered the Second World War and the Spanish Civil War.

Robert Capa’s iconic photographers include the 1944 Normandy Invasion. Some of his action photos portray compelling acts of violence in war.

4. Peter Linderbergh (Nov 23, 1944 – Sep 3, 2019)

Courses and workshops to learn more about editorial photography.

• Udemy.com Photography Masterclass: A Complete Guide to Photography
• Udemy.com Chris Parker’s The Photography Masterclass: Complete Course on Photography
• Creative Live Fundamentals of Photography
• Class Central Wedding Photography Tutorials
• Class Central Photography Tutorials

Knowing and understanding the basic rules of composition will bring you closer to mastering the art of capturing the perfect moment. When you capture a moment flawlessly, the resulting photograph provides much more than precious memories.

While Henri Cartier-Bresson’s quote, “Your first 10,000 photos are the worst,” might seem overly harsh, remember, you can achieve perfection only from practice.

Need help with editing photos? Let us do the work for you. Start your FREE trial today!​

Editorial Photography: How to Create Editorial Photos

Content Table

Introduction.

Editorial photography is in our everyday lives both in print and in the digital world. In any given platform, it has the power of narrating a story on its own or complimenting articles and publications. While it’s a great way for professional photographers to show their creative vision, editorial photography can be confused with other types of photography both in form and execution. 

What Is Editorial Photography?

Editorial photography focuses on capturing images for publication in newspapers, magazines, online publications, and other editorial contexts. 

The primary purpose of editorial images is to tell a story or convey a message through visual means (think of fashion photography or photojournalism, both types of editorial photography). 

Note, however, that when it comes to licensing the word “editorial” is used to label images that are solely for informative purposes and cannot be used in advertising.

What Does Editorial Photography Focus on?

Editorial-use photographs focus on creating a mood or setting the tone for articles, features, or news stories to enhance the written content and provide a visual representation of the subject.

 Why Is Editorial Photography Important?

Editorial work is important as it’s present in our everyday lives in the magazines and news articles we read every day. Editorial photography  illustrates a specific narrative , and it doesn’t center around advertising a specific product. 

This type of photography gives photographers the opportunity to tell a story while exploring their own creative freedom . Whether you’re freelancing and shooting portraiture, fashion shots, or advertising photography, learning to weave a narrative into your photography will help you build your skills as a photographer and produce a stronger portfolio.

What Can Be Considered a Subject of Editorial Photography?

The sky's the limit when it comes to what can be considered the subject of this type of photography. From fashion photography to photojournalism, any type of story can be converted to an editorial image as long as its main purpose is conveying a message rather than selling something. The subject of this type of photography can present events, lifestyles, a concept, or even already developed stories.

For example, editorial portrait photography will focus on an individual’s life or passion while editorial fashion photography would focus on a specific fashion line or accessory.

What Makes a Good Editorial Photo?

A good editorial photograph is an image that manages to engage the viewer in the narrative instead of trying to sell a particular product. Great editorial images are transformational and impactful, they don’t fall behind a line of text but rather bring it to life.

Editorial Photography vs Commercial Photography: Main Differences

Both editorial-style and commercial photography are designed to be printed or posted online. Their main difference, however, is their goal. Editorial images tell a story while commercial images aim to sell a product or brand.

For example, if a photograph of a mountain biker on the road was used in a magazine article about mountain biking, it would be considered an editorial photograph. However, if a similar image is created to advertise the sale of mountain bikes, it would be considered commercial photography. 

Commercial photography specifically aims to market or advertise a brand’s product or service and will also require a model release agreement. This type of photography generally requires a higher setup than editorial photography in terms of equipment, planning and budget.

There are several other differences between the two types of photography that can help you easily distinguish them: 

• Budget: Commercial shoots generally have a higher budget and allocate more money to post-production and editing than editorial shoots.
• Goal: Editorial photography aims to tell a story, whereas commercial photography aims to promote a specific brand or product. 
• Type of client: Commercial photographers are specifically hired by companies or brands who are present throughout the photo session.
• Photographer’s role: In an editorial shoot the photographer has more freedom in how to convey the message. A commercial photographer must follow the client’s direction as the images are intended for commercial use.
• Ownership: Unlike editorial photographers, advertising photographers generally license the usage rights of their images to the client that commissioned the session. Most editorial photographers tend to sell their images as stock photos.

How to Shoot Editorial Photography

The first thing you need to know is that creating an editorial picture can involve a longer process than with other areas of photography. 

Most editorial photo shoots are accompanied by a creative brief that outlines the scope of the shoot. The "who, what, when, why, and how" details on how to create the needed images, are however the responsibility of the photographer. 

It’s important to take some time to work on your vision and figure out the most compelling way to tell a specific story through your unique lens and creative process. The more time you spend preparing your editorial shoot, the smoother the rest of the process will be.

If you’re unsure on how to proceed when shooting editorial, here are some photography tips to focus on:

• Find your story: Spend some time working on your vision and figuring out a compelling story. There is a lot of creative freedom in this type of photography so spend some time researching on how best to convey the message. ‍
• Create a mood board: Spend time collecting ideas to draw inspiration from available online and print resources such as pinterest, social media, publications and magazines. . You don’t have to include all these ideas into your final shoot but they should be part of your research and creative process. Mood boards won’t only help you as the photographer and creative director, but they will also help everyone involved in the process have a reference of the goal of the shoot.  ‍
• Find your model for editorial photos: Finding the right model for your shoot is one of the most important steps. Whether you’re shooting an editorial portrait or working on a piece for a fashion magazine, the model will be responsible for communicating these concepts to the viewer. Working with the right model will ensure your shoot goes smoothly and your creative vision is fulfilled.
• ‍ Get a production team: Editorial shoots have many moving parts, and you'll want to have an experienced team at your side so you can focus on capturing the moment you have envisioned. ‍
• Scout for locations: Much like real estate, great images depend on location. Spend some time looking for the appropriate location according to the type of project: this will have a deep impact on your final product.  ‍
• Direct the shoot: Every team needs a leader. The photographer has the final say, as it’s your artistic sensitivity that will produce the definitive image. Direct your team to ensure you obtain the result that you are looking for during the shoot day, as well as during the photo editing and retouching process. ‍
• Photography gear: Editorial images are used in high-end publications, and professional equipment and great technical abilities are needed to deliver the expected results. Either trusted DSLR or new mirrorless cameras, alongside prime and portrait lenses are minimum requirements when shooting this type of photography .
• Editorial post production: Generally this type of photography requires the work of a photo editor too, as the end goal is to produce high-quality and polished images. However, the level of editing and post-production allowed will vary significantly on the content and the final use of the image.

Editorial photography is perhaps the most important type of photography out there in terms of creative processes. This is the most common type of photography as it’s found in magazines, newspapers, journalism, etc. We use it to tell a story, and how well this story is told depends on the work of the professional photographer and their vision.

As a professional photographer working for several organizations and social media campaigns in the US for 22 years, I have learned a great deal about what it takes to create a message that connects with an audience. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you! Contact me .

Your Business Presence Is Only as Good as Its Visual Representation

More articles.

• Luminar Neo
• Luminar for iPad
• Portrait Background
• Structure AI
• Supercontrast
• Composition AI
• Studio Light
• See All 30+ Features
• Extensions Pack
• Supersharp AI
• Focus Stacking
• Background Removal AI
• Noiseless AI
• Magic Light AI
• Panorama Stitching
• Landscape Photography
• Wildlife Photography
• Portrait Photography
• Family Photography
• Wedding Photography
• Newborn Photography
• Photoediting for beginners
• AI Photo Editor
• Real Estate
• E-commerce Photography
• Food Photography
• About Skylum
• Technology Licensing
• Photo Tours
• Ambassadors
• Affiliate Program

Special offer: Up to 83% off

February 26, 2022

ACT NOW! SAVE UKRAINE. DEFEND DEMOCRACY.

Team Skylum

Photography

At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine, confirming our worst fears. At this very hour they are attacking us on the streets of many Ukrainian cities.  We are at war.

Skylum was proudly founded in Ukraine, and our core development center is based in Kyiv. At this harrowing time, unfortunately we cannot guarantee the on-time delivery of updates to Luminar Neo. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we will make sure to further develop and improve Neo and to keep you updated on any news. 

However, today we ask our community for help and support. Here are some details on what has happened and how you can support Ukraine in this difficult time.

!   At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

! Right now, there are missile strikes and bombardment of peaceful Ukrainian cities.   We must hide our families in bomb shelters and protect our land with weapons in our hands as part of the territorial defense forces.

! This disastrous and entirely unprovoked Russian war has already taken the lives of 198 civilians. 33 children have been injured, and 3 have been killed.

! The Armed Forces of Ukraine, young and brave heroes, are fighting all over the country not only for Ukraine but for Peace and Clear Skies in Europe. 

As we write to you from a city under attack, we want to be very clear: This war is not just something you see on TV. It is not happening in some distant lands. It is happening right now here in Ukraine, and the Russian forces who are invading our lands and threatening our families may come to your doorstep one day too if we do not stop them.

Sanctions that world governments are currently imposing are not enough. Russia must be completely isolated from all spheres of the civilized world: the financial system, technologies, sports, culture.  

Here is a list of simple actions you can take to help Ukraine. We MUST unite to quite literally save the world before it’s too late:

- Contact your local representatives and pressure them to provide more support for Ukraine and stricter sanctions on Russia. We need military and humanitarian aid and Russia must be cut off from SWIFT.

- Donate money to humanitarian aid organizations. Find a full list over here:  https://how-you-can-support-ukraine.super.site/  

- Follow the news from official channels. Avoid fake news and disinformation!

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa  

https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba  

https://twitter.com/Hromadske  

https://twitter.com/DefenceU  

https://twitter.com/backandalive  

Telegram:  https://t.me/Forbes_Ukraine_official  

- Support the Ukrainian Army —  Official Account of the National Bank of Ukraine

We stand together

Please share this information with your community.

#Ukrainians #NATO #Ukraine #StandWithUkraine

Experience the power of Luminar Neo

Did you enjoy this post.

Share it on your social media

Advanced yet easy-to-use photo editor

Most popular.

April 04, 2023

GIMP vs. Krita: which one is better for you?

December 02, 2023

GIMP vs Photoshop: Which Photo Editor Is Better?

May 25, 2023

Photography Composition Techniques: A Beginner's Guide

A special perk for our blog readers.

Get a 10% discount on Luminar Neo and dive into professional photo editing today!

I agree to my personal data being stored and used to received newsletters and commercial offers from Skylum.

Thank you for subscribing.

Your gift is waiting in your inbox!

Skylum Blog

The latest news and updates. direct from Skylum

Use Aurora HDR for free for 14 days.

Sent successfully!

Please check your inbox. We've sent you a copy via email.

Looks like you're subscribed already

This is sad. Looks like you’ve earlier unsubscribed from Skylum emails.

Thank you for downloading Aurora HDR

Preparing your download...

Did your download not start? Dont worry, just click here to try again.

Oops! Something went wrong. Don't worry, just click here to try again.

Step 1 Find & Open Aurora HDR Installer

Step 2 Follow the instructions to install Aurora HDR

Step 3 Enjoy new photo editing experience

Get started for free

Try out Luminar Neo for free for 7 days. No credit card needed.

Please check your email

Make sure it's a valid email address

How to Shoot Excellent Editorial Footage

Editorial content is often used to enhance news stories or provide commentary on human interest pieces. While it’s not cleared for commercial use, news publications and programs rely on editorial stock to augment reporting.

But how do you decide what to shoot? What are the best practices for execution? To answer these questions, we’ve compiled a resource guide with some tips for creating a successful editorial shoot.

Pre-production, Research, and Planning

In contrast to planning a commercial shoot, not all of the nuts and bolts of an editorial shoot can be planned. But that doesn’t mean that pre-production should be overlooked. Pre-production can be just as important in editorial as it is in commercial shoots. Start by creating a gear list with backup equipment. This will ensure that you’re ready for anything (because there’s always something that doesn’t go as planned).

You may have less lead time to be on location, so prepping for your shoot is crucial when time is tight. Preparation also pays off when your battery dies and you have a couple of back-ups. Triple check all of your gear to make sure everything is operational, charged, and ready to go. Don’t forget to create a schedule and research the timing of your events–this is an essential step that could mean the difference between a successful and a not-so-successful shoot.

When researching what to shoot, think about editorial content that will have a longer shelf life. For example, shoot content that can be news-relevant in the future, or content that can be purchased for many different purposes. Some editorial content does have a shelf life, though, so try to keep expenses low. When traveling, plan multiple shoots in nearby locations and limit your gear list to the essentials.

Credit:  ODesigns

Get the Right Gear

The right gear can help you improvise when optimal shooting conditions are not available. Mobile stabilization–whether by a tripod, gimbal, or portable monopod–can improve a shot and keep the focus on the subjects.

More often than not, camera audio alone won’t make the cut, so set yourself up for success and get a reliable directional mic. The right equipment will do wonders for your audio quality and will make your content more appealing to buyers.

Respond to Changes As They Unfold

In the chaos of filming live events, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. When looking for a subject to film, don’t forget the point of the shoot: you’re here to tell a story.

Editorial shooting is supposed to capture natural and genuine moments. Don’t interfere with the subjects or disrupt the flow just to get a shot. Tampering with a scene often results in a compromised video.

Whether you’re filming a demonstration, awards ceremony, or conference, editorial shoots can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Be patient and wait for your moment! You’re here to capture the emotion of the event. Allow things to play out and position yourself to capture the action as it unfolds.

Find Your Balance: Speed & Quality

Critique your own work and make the right selections for editorial buyers. Remember, your work can be purchased for news segments, documentary productions, or other non-commercial, news-relevant commentaries. Keep these audiences in mind for both the shooting and editing phases of production.

The ability to make quick editing decisions is just as important as making rapid judgment calls in the field. Since some editorial content is time-sensitive and needs to get online immediately, be your own critic, work efficiently, and submit your best work. But don’t get bogged down in the small details–when it comes to breaking news, time is money.

Credit:  rickray

There’s a common theme to all of these tips—focus. Prep as much as possible and keep your end goal in mind during the actual event. Even when things don’t go as planned, always remember that you’re filming a story. Do what you can to achieve your filming goals and don’t interfere with the scene. During the editing process, keep your audience in mind and think about what they’ll be looking for when search for content.

Creating editorial content can be challenging and invigorating all at once. Luckily, if you plan well and go with the flow, you’ll be in the best position to earn.

Recommended for you

Measuring success: Metrics that matter in video marketing ROI

The Kuleshov Effect: A powerful tool in video makers’ toolkit

12 job sites for video editors to find their next gig

Everything about Editorial Photography: A Beginner’s Guide

Editorial photography is a type of photography where you take pictures to tell a story or support a narrative. You will find these images alongside magazine articles, editorials, blogs, and other publications.

You might be wondering: “There are so many photos in magazines and blogs. Are they all editorial photos?” Well, these images are not the same. But stopping with that answer won’t help you understand the matter and how to differentiate them from the other types of photography.

So, in this article, we will look at the subject in detail to get a thorough understanding

Let’s begin!

What is editorial photography?

Editorial photography is the art of taking photos for print and online publications in a way that conveys a story. These images are made to support the story or narrative in the text or create a specific mood or tone for the article they accompany. People who take editorial pictures are called editorial photographers.

Publications often hire editorial photographers to make images that will help readers visualize what a writer is saying in an article. Depending on the intention, these images can be composed to look artistic or serious.

Editorial photos can also appear on their own as a statement piece. They can be used as standalone images to imply a narrative or outline a creative concept.

Now, let’s see how editorial photos are used in different cases.

Where is editorial photography used?

Editorial photographs are generally used in places where a story needs to be told. As mentioned earlier, they are storytelling aids that often appear with text in a publication. They can be used in different ways, depending on the publication, including:

Magazines: Can you imagine reading a magazine without any images at all? It would be boring, and readers would find it difficult to understand certain information. The reason why the saying “a picture speaks a thousand words” exists, is because visual information is better received than text.

Almost all magazines carry articles with high-quality images related to the topic. It could be a story about a personality, restaurant, animal, town, event, etc. These images can be staged to tell a story or show as much information as possible in one shot or a series of images.

Newspapers:  While some editorial photos are used in newspapers, not all images in these publications can be called such. As mentioned before, editorial images tell or support a story. They can also be staged to create a certain effect or mood. It doesn’t mean that staged images are fake or misleading. It just means that the shot is composed to convey a message or story. For example, taking a photo of an entrepreneur with their team or products for a feature article.

Such staging may not be possible during communal tensions, protests, wars, etc. These images would fall into the photojournalism category. Later in this article, we’ll look at the differences between photojournalism and editorial photography.

Editorials:  An editorial is a written piece in which the author attempts to express their opinion on a particular issue. Editorials can be the opinion of the editor or the editorial board. They are written to explain, interpret, criticize, persuade, or praise the subject, issue, or individual. They often cover controversial, social, or political issues and are meant to influence public opinion, promote critical thinking, or cause people to take action. You will find editorials in newspapers, magazines, and other publications.

Editorials don’t usually come with too many images, like most other articles. They are usually accompanied by one or two editorial photos that depict the topic.

Documentaries:  Documentaries are non-fiction films about real events, circumstances, and people. Documentaries aim to educate, reveal a topic or issue, or maintain a record. Even before cameras, people documented animals, plants, anatomy, etc. with drawings. So, you can imagine how vital film and photos are to helping people understand historical events like the civil rights movement .

Blog articles and websites:  Editorial photographs can also be used in non-commercial publications such as blogs and websites. These mediums often need captivating imagery to grab the viewer’s attention. That is why they use high-quality and well-composed images to add value to their content.

If you’ve ever read through a travel or food blog, you’ve probably noticed the kind of images they use. Depending on the quality, pictures on food blogs can make your mouth water. Similarly, stunning photos on travel blogs can make you feel like you’ve just visited the place. Even event websites rely on editorial photography to attract viewers and generate interest.

Editorial photography vs. commercial photography

Editorial and commercial photos often overlap based on context. For example, a picture of a woman geared up for a surfing competition can be an editorial photo if placed next to an article about surfing. However, the same image can be taken as a commercial photograph if used in a surfboard ad.

Still, there are some important points of difference between the two photography styles. They are as follows:

Purpose: Editorial photography aims to capture images in a way that tells a story. On the other hand, commercial photography is mainly used to advertise and aims to sell a product or brand and increase sales.

Editorial pictures are used in magazines, blogs, editorials, documentaries, etc. Commercial images are used in magazine and newspaper ads, billboards, product packaging, online ads, brochures, etc.

Clientele:  The clients for editorial photos are generally publications that want pictures that can be visual aids to their stories or articles.

In the case of commercial photos, the clients are generally companies, brands, or individuals looking to push sales or brand awareness through images.

Budget:  Commercial photoshoots are more likely to have a higher budget than editorial shoots, as the aim is to make more money. Commercial photographers also generally get paid more than editorial photographers.

Creative freedom:  In commercial photography, the photographers usually have to go by the company’s or brand’s guidelines. They have limited creative freedom when compared to editorial photographers.

Licensing restrictions:  Pictures taken for commercial purposes need the permission of property owners, artists, and recognizable people in the image. That is because the images will be used for advertisements and promotional purposes.

Pictures licensed as editorial content don’t have these restrictions as they will be used for news or educational purposes. However, they can’t be used to sell, promote, or monetize a business, product, or service.

Editorial photography vs. photojournalism

Earlier, we mentioned that while editorial pictures are used in newspapers, not all images are editorial. This section will see what makes photojournalism different from other images found in new content.

Purpose:  As we have discussed earlier, editorial photography aims to tell a story or support a story or narrative. It is more subjective by nature.

In the case of photojournalism, the purpose is to show the truth. It is very objective and attempts to show events, people, and situations as they are. Some images, especially of war, crime, and political strife, can be very disturbing.

Creativity:  Photojournalists are supposed to show true events and facts through their photography. They often don’t alter their images in any way, as there is almost no scope for creativity. Even magazines and newspapers have strict rules regarding the composition and post-processing of pictures in photojournalism. These restrictions are not present in editorial photography.

Style:  Even though there are many restrictions on how photojournalistic pictures are taken, there is still a kind of freedom in the style. Photojournalistic images are more candid-documentary images that allow the photographer to be themselves. There is no pressure or direction on how the photos should be taken. Photojournalists are free to be spectators and “document” events as they occur in front of them.

In editorial photography, the photographer needs to put in the effort to compose and take photos that can effectively convey the message or support a story.

How do you enhance editorial photoshoots?

No matter the style of photography, you can’t hand over any raw files to your client and assume your work is finished. Clients always expect that the photos you give them are properly processed. Therefore, you must perform some post-processing to enhance the images and correct their flaws. Although the degree of post-processing depends on the type of photography.

Some important photo enhancements you should make are:

• Color correction,
• Perspective correction,
• Color grading , and more.

You can use photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to process your images before handing them to the client. If you feel like you don’t have the necessary skills to process your photos or have too much work on your hands, you can always outsource the work to a professional photo editing company .

Wrapping up!

While it can be confused with photojournalism and commercial photography, editorial photography is a discipline on its own. It aims to tell a story through still images and is essential to print and online publications. If you are a photographer wanting to freely express your artistic visions, this is the best discipline for you.

We hope this article has helped you understand and appreciate editorial photography. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy Reading This Blog Post? Why Not Share This Story, to Your Social Network!

Related posts.

19 Adobe Photoshop Selection Tools and Their Shortcuts

Unethical real estate photo editing practices you should avoid, 4 qualities real estate photos must have for image editing, 7 ways day to dusk photo editing can help sell your property.

Color Grading vs. Color Correction: Difference Explained

An introduction to editorial fashion photography

Explore the ins and out of editorial photography, key takeaways.

• Explore - Understand how to define editorial fashion photography, its importance in your portfolio and its creative potential.
• Showcase - Use editorial fashion photography to tell a story and focus on creative expression rather than simply selling a product.
• Create - Develop a strong concept, work with a talented team and experiment to create a unique fashion editorial photoshoot showcasing your technical and collaborative skills and understanding of the fashion industry.
• Collaborate - Partner with creative professionals who can elevate your ideas and bring your vision to life.
• Submit - Share your editorial fashion photography with the world by submitting it to fashion magazines or other publications that match your visual style.
• Pitch - Propose an idea for a photo series to a magazine, including a summary of your vision and how it fits their aesthetic and themes.

What is editorial fashion photography?

This highly creative and collaborative form of fashion photography is featured in magazines, newspapers, fashion blogs and Internet media.

The essence of editorial fashion photography is to showcase clothing in a way that tells a story and captures the soul of a brand. “While commercial fashion photography aims to sell a product, editorial fashion photography focuses on artistic expression and capturing a mood or theme,” says fashion photographer Sarah Fountain .

A few notable names who have left their mark on this genre of photography have been Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Steven Meisel, Annie Leibovitz, Tim Walker and Herb Ritts.

Why is it essential to have editorial work in your fashion photography portfolio?

Publishing your work is a powerful marketing tool that can lead to those important commercial bookings. Photographing an editorial series is a way to tell a cohesive story with striking images while simultaneously building your style and gaining exposure.

Where and how people consume fashion content has changed with the rise of digital media, but fashion magazines still hold an enduring appeal. Many fashion magazines have adapted to the decline of print sales over the years by expanding their online presence and developing mobile apps.

According to Sarah Fountain, “a fashion photography portfolio that includes editorial work will demonstrate your technical and collaborative skills, versatility and understanding of the fashion industry, which can be valuable in attracting potential clients and building your reputation.”

Tips and tricks for fashion editorial photoshoot (shoots)

Here are some ideas for creating a unique fashion editorial photoshoot :  

• The idea: Start with a strong concept to set your editorial apart. Research different themes, fashion trends and styles to help inspire your vision. Be open to new ideas and experiences, study art movements and fashion history, observe nature and explore cultures and subcultures.
• Understand lighting: Lighting is critical to capturing great fashion shots. Whether shooting indoors or outdoors, consider the natural light available and supplement it with artificial lighting. Experiment with different lighting set-up to create exciting effects and highlights.
• Use unusual props and accessories: Experiment with different props and accessories to create a unique look. Consider using unexpected or unusual objects or combine them in unexpected ways.
• Play with colours: Colour is an essential aspect of fashion photography. Experiment with different colour palettes and combinations to create a visually stunning editorial.
• Composition : Pay attention to your shots' composition, balance and symmetry. Try different angles, framing and cropping to add depth and interest to the images.
• Work with a talented team: Collaborate with creative professionals who can elevate your ideas and bring your vision to life.
• Equipment: Some of the essential pieces of equipment that a fashion photographer may use include a range of cameras, lenses , strobe lights, continuous lights, lighting modifiers, reflectors, lens filters, tripod, computer and editing software and experimental accessories such as mirrors, smoke, prisms, projectors, coloured gels and more.
• Shoot in RAW format : Shooting in RAW format will allow for more flexibility during post-processing, which is particularly important for creating an artistic look. RAW files contain all the data captured by the camera's sensor so you can adjust exposure, white balance and other settings without losing image quality.
• Use manual mode: Shooting in manual mode will allow greater control over the exposure and creative effects.
• Experiment with your camera settings: Use the project as an opportunity to experiment with your camera settings, such as long exposures, multiple exposures and lens distortion.
• Think outside the box: Be bold and try something new or push the boundaries of traditional photography. Consider incorporating elements from other genre, such as fine art or film.

The go-to process for creating a fashion photography editorial

In the highly competitive and fast-paced world of fashion photography, successful collaboration is crucial for producing standout editorials and building a good reputation in the industry.

You can create memorable editorial fashion photography that meets your artistic vision by creating a strong concept, sourcing the right team and working closely with them throughout the process.

This creative team may include the fashion stylist, model, hair and makeup artist, assistant, digital operator and a set designer or set stylist. Here are the steps to create a fashion photography editorial.

• Concept development: Work with the creative team to develop a concept for the shoot. This includes determining the overall vision, location, styling and shot list.
• Pre-production: Organise the elements required for the shoot, including location scouting, booking models, finalising the styling and wardrobe, lighting and equipment and creating a detailed timeline for the shoot day.
• Production: On the shoot day, work with the team to ensure that lighting, wardrobe and other details are executed as planned. Produce enough final images to fill a 6-8 double-page spread story. The photos must show consistency, but the narrative does not need to be linear. "I like to create an environment that fosters creativity in the studio by setting the right mood with music, removing distractions, allowing for experimentation and flexibility and encouraging the team to bounce ideas off of one another and provide feedback," says fashion photographer Sarah Fountain.
• Post-production: Select the final images that work together as a cohesive narrative and begin editing and retouching them using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop . Lightroom allows photographers to adjust multiple images simultaneously which reduces editing time and streamlines workflow. Combining Lightroom's organisational and processing capabilities with Photoshop's advanced editing tools and features can help photographers produce professional-quality photos quickly and easily.

5. Submission: After finalising the photos, they can be submitted to fashion magazines or other publications for consideration. This may involve sending a pitch or completed editorial to the magazine or publication.

How to get your work published.

Submissions and pitches are two ways to present your work to a fashion magazine or publication. A submission involves sending a completed photo series with the hope of having it published. When researching magazines to submit your work to, you will have the most success by approaching publications with a similar aesthetic to your visual style.

It is essential to read the submission guidelines that most submission-based magazines will list on their website before sending your work to the editor. Pay attention to the themes various magazines may mention regarding their upcoming publications.

A pitch, on the other hand, is when you propose an idea for a photo series to a magazine to create the content if they are interested. A pitch usually includes a summary of your vision, your intended angle or approach and some samples of your work that demonstrate your style and skills.

If the magazine likes your concept, they may commission you to create the content for them.

"Focus on concepts you are personally interested in when presenting ideas to magazines. It will show in your pitch and final images if the inspiration comes from an authentic place," says Sarah.

With the rise of social media, editors and agents are no longer the gatekeepers of the fashion world. Remember to consider the power of publishing your work online and on social platforms. Many major publications and high-end fashion labels have discovered talent to hire via these channels.

Creating albums using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom offers a simple and convenient way to organise and share your photos with others while also allowing you to maintain control over your sharing settings and keep your portfolio up to date.

Let your photographs tell your story today.

Producing fashion editorials can be a fulfill and rewarding experience for photographers passionate about their craft and dedicated to making creative, visually stunning and emotionally impactful work.

Editorial fashion photography is a way to create visual stories that convey a powerful message or feeling and allows photographers to connect with their audience on a deeper level.

"Nothing stops you from getting online or networking to find like-minded creatives to collaborate with today. Be intentional with what you want to produce, who you want to go on your journey with and where you would like to go," says photographer Sarah Fountain.

Contributors:

Sarah Fountain

You might also be interested in…

Creating great portrait photography.

Take a step closer to perfect portraits with tips and advice from professional photographers.

An introduction to portrait lighting.

Learn the basics of portrait lighting to bring your subject’s story to life.

Tips for upskilling creative fashion photography skills

Learn how to plan and execute the perfect creative fashion photograph that showcases your vision and style.

Tips for choosing the best lens for fashion photography

Learn how to choose the ideal lenses and get tips for capturing stunning fashion photos.

Discover more on photography

Do more with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom.

onloadmodal2

Try Photoshop, free for 7 days then RM110.16 /mo (incl. SST).

Language Navigation

• Suomen kieli
• Create your own site Dashboard Create a site Dashboard

November 7, 2023

The Art of Editorial Modeling: Captivating the World with Style

Tags: #Editorial #Modeling

Author: Jessica Andersson

Table of Contents

Introduction to editorial modeling, the role of an editorial model, the art of posing for editorial shoots, fashion styling for editorial modeling, hair and makeup for editorial shoots, working with a professional team, editorial modeling agencies and how to get signed, building a strong editorial modeling portfolio, tips for a successful editorial modeling career.

An editorial model is not just a pretty face; they are storytellers, conveying emotions and narratives through their poses and expressions. They are the canvas on which fashion stylists, photographers, hair and makeup artists, and other creative professionals paint their visions. Editorial models are chosen for their unique look, versatility, and ability to bring a concept to life. They must be able to adapt to various themes and styles, embodying the essence of each editorial shoot.

Editorial models also play a vital role in representing diversity and pushing boundaries in the fashion industry. They challenge traditional beauty standards and pave the way for inclusivity, encouraging designers and brands to embrace a wider range of body types, ethnicities, and gender identities.

Posing is an essential skill for an editorial model. It is through their poses that they convey the mood, story, and energy of the editorial. Every pose should be purposeful, elegant, and visually striking. An editorial model must have a strong understanding of their body and how to create visually pleasing lines and shapes.

The key to successful posing is to combine fluidity with precision. Models should practice various poses in front of a mirror to understand their best angles and expressions. It is important to experiment with different poses, from strong and confident to vulnerable and ethereal, to bring out the desired emotions and narratives in the photographs.

Fashion styling is an integral part of editorial modeling. The clothes and accessories chosen for an editorial shoot help create the desired aesthetic and tell a story. The editorial model must work closely with the fashion stylist to understand the concept and vision behind each look. They should be able to embody the character and personality that the clothes represent.

As an editorial model, it is essential to have a good knowledge of fashion trends and designers. This allows you to bring authenticity and understanding to each shoot. By staying updated with the latest fashion news and studying the work of renowned stylists, you can develop your own unique sense of style and contribute to the creative process.

Hair and makeup are crucial elements in editorial modeling. They enhance the overall look and help create the desired mood and character. The editorial model should work closely with the hair and makeup artists to understand the vision and provide input, ensuring a cohesive final result.

For editorial shoots, hair and makeup can range from natural and minimalistic to bold and avant-garde. It is important for the model to be open to experimentation and embrace different looks. The ability to transform and adapt to various styles is highly valued in the industry.

Editorial modeling is a collaborative process that involves working with a team of professionals, including photographers, stylists, hair and makeup artists, and art directors. Each member of the team plays a significant role in bringing the editorial to life.

As an editorial model, it is essential to communicate effectively with the team, understand their vision, and contribute your own creative ideas. Collaboration and mutual respect are key to creating successful editorials. Building strong relationships with professionals in the industry can also open doors to new opportunities and help advance your career.

Editorial modeling agencies are a valuable resource for models looking to enter the industry. These agencies have connections with top publications, brands, and industry professionals, and can help models secure editorial opportunities. To get signed with an editorial modeling agency, it is important to have a strong portfolio and a unique look.

Research different agencies and find one that aligns with your goals and aesthetic. Submit your portfolio to agencies that specialize in editorial modeling and attend open calls or casting events if possible. It is important to be persistent and patient, as getting signed with an agency may take time and require multiple submissions.

A strong editorial modeling portfolio is crucial for attracting the attention of agencies and clients. It should showcase your versatility, range, and ability to embody different characters and styles. When building your portfolio, focus on quality over quantity. Include a variety of editorial shoots that highlight your strengths and unique features.

Collaborate with photographers, stylists, and hair and makeup artists to create diverse and visually captivating images. Aim for a cohesive and well-curated portfolio that tells a story and leaves a lasting impression. Regularly update your portfolio with new work to showcase your growth and evolution as a model.

To have a successful editorial modeling career, it is important to stay dedicated, professional, and adaptable. Here are some tips to help you thrive in the industry:

Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and practice self-care to ensure you are at your best for shoots.

Build relationships with industry professionals. Networking is essential in the fashion industry. Attend events, connect with photographers and stylists, and be proactive in building your professional network.

Be open to constructive criticism and continuous learning. Stay humble and always strive to improve your skills and knowledge.

Develop your personal brand. Create a strong online presence through social media platforms and a professional website. Showcase your work, personality, and unique style to attract opportunities.

Stay updated with industry trends and publications. Read fashion magazines, follow fashion blogs, and keep an eye on emerging designers and photographers. This will help you stay relevant and informed.

Editorial modeling is an art form that allows models to express their creativity and captivate audiences with style. Through posing, fashion styling, hair and makeup, and collaboration with a professional team, editorial models bring fashion editorials to life. By understanding the role of an editorial model, working with agencies, building a strong portfolio, and following essential tips, aspiring models can pave their way to a successful career in this exciting industry. So, embrace your uniqueness, hone your skills, and unleash your creativity as you embark on your journey as an editorial model.

Related Topics

• Understanding The Comp Card's Role in Modeling Industry Success
• Different Types of Models: Discover Your Female Model Archetype
• Proven Strategies to Get Hired by Top Modeling Agencies
• How Editorial Photography Shapes Visual Storytelling

An online portfolio made for Creatives

With all the tools a professional needs

• Dynamic Grid
• Golden Ratio
• Square Ratio
• Align Center
• Horizontal 2
• Horizontal 3

Get started for free

Create your online portfolio website now

• 01. Sign up for free
• 02. Build your portfolio
• 03. Get your own domain

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. More info here

• Student Successes
• My Learning

How to Shoot Professional Editorial Fashion Photography

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

Fashion photographers often have to shoot in difficult and challenging environments. Whether it’s on a busy street, in a studio or outdoors, there are certain techniques that will help you master editorial fashion photography . Here are four tips to get you started.

Editorial Fashion Photography: Common Questions

What is an editorial in photography.

An editorial is a set of images that tell a story. These photos are made to accompany a certain piece of text. Unlike commercial photography , editorials are all about storytelling. This gives editorial photographers more creative freedom during their photoshoots.

What Is the Difference Between Fashion and Editorial Photography?

Fashion and commercial photography try to sell a product. Editorial photography focuses more on storytelling than on advertisements. Even though editorial photography features different brands, its goal is to sell a story.

How Do I Submit to a Fashion Magazine?

The submission process is very simple. Find a few magazines that you like, read their requirements, and submit your photos before the deadline. Most fashion photography magazines look for a specific feel in their submissions. To increase your chances of getting your fashion photography featured, make sure you look through the magazine to understand its individual style.

What Does Editorial Modelling Mean?

Editorial models are featured in fashion editorials. This is a prestigious job that affects fashion trends. As an editorial model, you have to tell a story in any location and in any outfit. A few famous fashion editorial models are Natalia Vodianova and Anna Ewers .

How to Shoot Fashion Editorial Photography

Start with an idea to keep your photos consistent.

Gather a Team of Creative People to Make Your Photoshoot as Professional as Possible

Make a List of Magazines You’d like to Submit Your Photos To

Find 1-2 Locations That Can Help Your Idea Come to Life

Inspire Yourself and Your Team with Mood Boards

Don’t Be Afraid of Giving Detailed Instructions Throughout Your Photoshoot

Experiment with Different Angles and Poses to Keep Your Photography Exciting

View this post on Instagram 🌸Kasia @kashiasocha shot by @riccardo__carraro 🌸 Styling @mariorussolillo Make-up @giadapinato.makeup Dress by @agata.karobka A post shared by WAVE MANAGEMENT MILAN (@wave_management) on Nov 4, 2019 at 1:36am PST

View this post on Instagram shooting with @ganyausman @kamolasalimbaeva_ @2505store_tashkent #editorial #photo #photographer #fashion #fashionphotography #fashionstylist #fashionstyling #beauty #portrait #shooting #styling #editorial #fashioneditorial #lolita_tur A post shared by L O L I T A (@lolita_tur) on Nov 3, 2019 at 12:41am PDT

View this post on Instagram Deep eyes and bony hand. ♥️♠️ De verdad que hacer esta sesión ha sido una de las cosas más bonitas, y el vestido estaba súper cómodo y hermoso! Perfecto para muchas ocasiones para lucir linda y muy clásica. 💖 Una obra maravillosa de @rituale.s ❤️ . . . . . . . Fotografía: @figueroandrea_ Diseñador: @rituale.s Cabello: @adrian_gama Maquillaje: @valeriamakeupartist Coordinación y producción : @jazminvf Agencia: @blinkmodelm . . . . . . . . . . #model #mexicanmodel #fashion #editorial #modelmanagement #design #photography #fashioneditorial #fashioninspo #checkoutmyaccount #profileview A post shared by Natasha Ramírez Torres (@natasha.ramirezt) on Nov 1, 2019 at 11:51am PDT

Break the Rules to Develop Your Style

Don’t Share Your Photos Until They Get Published

To have a successful fashion photoshoot , you need to have an idea, a strong team, and an imaginative mind. The more you think outside the box, the easier it will be to take stunning fashion photos. With time, you’ll strengthen your creative intuition and know exactly what you need to get your photography featured in a successful fashion magazine.

Popular Content

What Does It Take to Shoot a Magazine Editorial?

An editorial shoot, like any type of photography, requires a perfect blend of planning and play. Timing is critical, especially when working with a celebrity. In this video, London-based photographer Ejatu Shaw shares a behind-the-scenes look of her shoot with radio host Roman Kemp.

Shaw shares her process for planning and shooting a fashion editorial, offering an unfiltered look for what a typical shoot day might look like. Shaw begins by talking through her moodboard process, where she not only outlines the types of images she is aiming to make, but also includes several examples for each type. A moodboard doesn’t need to be highly structured, but having half a dozen or so broad ideas can be a jumping-off point for when you are actually on location with models.

To no one's surprise, the remainder of the video continues on with the rest of the shoot. The key point for me is the level of preparedness Shaw demonstrates to execute a fashion editorial shoot. This, of course, might differ for the shoot and for the photographer. Some photographers prefer to plan every detail, while others might only plan broad ideas, or the plan might include a specific lighting setup or color scheme. But balancing your plan with room for play is critical to having that sense of spontaneity in your images.

Ali Choudhry is a photographer in Australia. His photographic practice aims to explore the relationship with the self, between the other, and the world. Through use of minimalist compositions and selective use of color and form he aims to invoke what he calls the "breath". He is currently working towards a BA (Honours) in Photography.

I enjoy the humility of the hustle as it shows what many of us actually go through without large teams.

Mood board planning is a must I believe, I use Evernote to handle my work flow for years and it shares well to my clients, team and talent(s) and it helps bring everony on the same page but also effectively works for managing all inputs which are then corallated in the processe for the shoot easily keeping everyone one point. series.

Absolutely! I don't think the hustle ever really ends; you just sort of start getting more and more help.

Might I also suggest looking into Milanote?

A Guide to Editorials: The Power of the Pen

Deep dive into the world of editorials, where written words can shape public opinion, inspire social change, and provoke thought. Understand the distinctive components that make an editorial compelling and persuasive.

Table of Contents

Discover the diverse styles of editorials, the crucial roles in an editorial team , and the impact of digital media on this form of journalism. The guide concludes with practical tips and a comprehensive blueprint for creating impactful and thought-provoking editorials.

Understanding Editorials: An Introduction

Editorial writing is a powerful branch of journalism that has shaped public opinion, instigated critical thought, and provoked dialogue on pressing issues. An editorial is a written piece that typically presents an informed, opinionated perspective on a particular topic. While it may seem akin to other forms of journalistic writing, editorials hold a distinct space and play a unique role within the journalistic landscape.

Editorial Writing: Opinion Piece

An editorial isn’t just a report or a simple opinion piece; it is rooted in facts and in-depth analysis. It examines issues from a unique angle, typically the stance of the newspaper, magazine, or website it’s published on. Unlike news stories that aim to be objective and balanced, editorials are inherently subjective. They allow the editorial board to take a stance, advocate for a cause, highlight injustices, or commend commendable actions.

Social and Political Comentary

Editorial writing has been a significant social and political commentary vehicle throughout history. It has been a platform that has often sparked public discourse, catalyzed social change, and held authorities accountable. From the editorials in early newspapers that galvanized support for independence during the colonial era to more recent editorials addressing issues like climate change, gun control, or immigration, they’ve been instrumental in shaping public opinion and bringing about transformative change.

Promoting Critical Thinking

Furthermore, editorials play a crucial role in promoting critical thinking. By presenting reasoned arguments, they challenge readers to think deeply about issues, consider different viewpoints, and form informed opinions. Through their thought-provoking nature, they cultivate a culture of dialogue and discourse, fostering an informed and engaged citizenry.

Facts and Analysis

The nuances of editorial writing set it apart from other types of journalistic writing. While news stories provide a straightforward account of events, and feature articles delve into a subject in a narrative or descriptive style, editorials leverage facts and analysis to present a viewpoint and persuade readers. The blend of information, argument, and persuasion makes editorial writing an art and a craft.

In essence, understanding editorials is critical to understanding the power of the written word in shaping society. With the potential to inspire change, challenge norms, and engage communities, editorial writing is as crucial today as ever.

The Key Elements of Effective Editorials

Creating effective editorials requires a keen understanding of their key elements and how they interweave to craft a persuasive narrative. Whether you aim to inspire change, provoke thought, or advocate a position, the power of your pen hinges on these core elements of editorials: a clear point of view, logical argument, compelling evidence, and a solid call to action.

Elements of Editorials

Clear point of view.

A clear point of view forms the backbone of an editorial. Unlike objective news reports, editorials are subjective by design, often reflecting the publication’s stance. A clear point of view provides a firm direction for the editorial, giving the readers a perspective to engage with. This doesn’t mean asserting a personal opinion; instead, it’s about presenting an informed perspective backed by a cogent analysis.

Logical Argument

The logical argument is the driving force of your editorial. It ties the point of view to the evidence, creating a convincing narrative. Structuring a coherent argument involves identifying the issue, stating your position, presenting evidence, and concluding with a solid inference. The goal is to take readers on a journey where each point seamlessly connects to the next, leading them to a compelling conclusion.

Compelling Evidence

Compelling evidence lends credibility to your editorial. It bridges the gap between a simple opinion and a persuasive viewpoint. This includes factual information, statistics, expert opinions, and real-world examples substantiating your argument. In the world of editorials, it’s not just about what you say but how effectively you can back it up.

Call-to-Action

Lastly, a solid call to action is the crescendo of your editorial. It’s where you galvanize your readers to think, question, or act. A call to action doesn’t necessarily mean asking readers to undertake a specific task. It can be a prompt to reflect, a challenge to question established norms, or an invitation to continue the conversation.

The symbiosis of these elements results in influential editorials that persuade and engage readers in a meaningful dialogue. You can craft editorials that resonate, inspire, and leave an indelible impact through a clear point of view, a logical argument, compelling evidence, and a solid call to action. This ability to shape the narrative and engage readers is the true power and essence of editorial writing.

The Art of Persuasive Writing: Rhetorical Techniques in Editorials

Editorial writing is as much an art as it is a craft. Its heart lies in persuasion skills, compelling readers to view issues from a fresh perspective, reconsider established notions, or take decisive action. Integral to this art are essential editorial techniques steeped in rhetoric – ethos, pathos, and logos. Understanding and leveraging these tools is vital to mastering persuasive writing in editorials.

Editorial Techniques

Ethos is an appeal to ethics, persuading your audience by establishing credibility and authority. It’s about convincing the readers that you are trustworthy, that your arguments are well-researched, and your opinions are sound. This is achieved by demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject, citing credible sources, maintaining a balanced and respectful tone, and being transparent about potential biases. For example, an editorial on climate change might leverage ethos by quoting reputable scientists and referencing authoritative studies.

Pathos appeals to emotions, aiming to persuade readers by triggering an emotional response. While facts and logic are essential, humans are innately emotional beings, emotions often drive our actions. Editorials can utilize pathos by sharing personal anecdotes, painting vivid images, or evoking empathy and outrage. For instance, an editorial advocating for refugee rights might employ pathos by sharing moving stories of individual refugees, evoking empathy and a sense of urgency.

Logos appeals to logic, a persuasion technique through reasoning and evidence. In an editorial, logos comes into play when you present a clear, logical argument supported by facts, statistics, and sound reasoning. It’s about building a solid case for your viewpoint, where every claim is substantiated, every counter-argument addressed, and the conclusion inevitably follows from the presented evidence. For instance, an editorial arguing for policy reform would employ logos by presenting data, dissecting existing policies, and logically demonstrating the need for change.

Mastering these editorial techniques is fundamental to persuasive writing. By weaving ethos, pathos, and logos effectively, you can craft compelling narratives that resonate with your readers on an intellectual, emotional, and ethical level. This combination of technique and artistry makes editorial writing a powerful instrument of influence and change.

Exploring Different Types of Editorials

Though united by the common aim of sharing a perspective, editorials come in various types, each with its unique purpose, style, and impact. Exploring these types of editorials – interpretive, persuasive, criticism, and praise – enriches our understanding of editorial writing. It provides valuable insights into choosing the right approach for different topics and audiences.

Types of Editorials

Interpretive editorials.

Interpretive editorials aim to explain or interpret complex issues, events, or policies to the readers. They delve deep into the subject, highlighting the nuances often lost in regular news coverage. This type of editorial seeks to clarify, inform, and provide context, helping readers understand the intricacies of the matter. For example, an interpretive editorial might explain the implications of a new tax law or unravel the complexities of a geopolitical conflict.

Persuasive Editorials

Persuasive editorials are written to persuade readers to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. They skillfully employ rhetoric – ethos, pathos, and logos – to build a compelling argument. Persuasive editorials aim to move readers from passive understanding to active engagement, whether advocating for policy changes, calling for social reform, or rallying support for a cause.

Criticism Editorials

As the name suggests, criticism editorials offer critical viewpoints on policies, actions, or behaviors deemed detrimental to the community or society. They play a crucial role in holding power accountable and fostering transparent discourse. It’s essential, however, to ensure criticism is constructive, respectful, and backed by evidence, maintaining the credibility and integrity of the editorial.

Praise Editorials

Praise editorials, on the other hand, highlight and appreciate commendable actions, achievements, or policies. They acknowledge positive developments, encourage good practices, and inspire others. Praise editorials contribute to a balanced and constructive discourse, from celebrating significant milestones to applauding impactful initiatives.

Understanding these different types of editorials enhances your ability to communicate effectively with your readers, tailoring your approach based on the topic, the purpose, and the audience. Remember, the type of editorial you choose can significantly impact the message you convey and the reaction you elicit from your readers.

The Editorial Team: Roles and Responsibilities

Creating an impactful editorial result from a collaborative effort by a group of individuals known as the editorial team. This team’s role is pivotal in shaping the publication’s content , tone, and direction; each member plays a critical part in the process. Let’s delve into the roles and responsibilities of the key players in an editorial team.

The Editorial Team

Editorial writer.

The Editorial Writer is the heart of the editorial process, responsible for researching, writing, and crafting the editorial. This role demands deep knowledge of the subject matter, the ability to present a clear and convincing argument and a flair for persuasive writing. The editorial writer’s task is to distill complex issues into compelling narratives that inform, challenge, and inspire readers. They often work closely with the rest of the editorial team to refine their work and ensure alignment with the publication’s stance.

The Editor plays a crucial role in refining and polishing the editorial content . Their responsibilities go beyond correcting grammar and punctuation. They scrutinize the content for clarity, coherence, accuracy, and persuasiveness, ensuring the argument flows logically, the evidence is compelling, and the writing aligns with the editorial guidelines and tone of the publication. They often provide valuable feedback to the writer and work collaboratively to enhance the impact of the editorial.

Editor-in-Chief

At the helm of the editorial team is the Editor-in-Chief. This role carries the ultimate responsibility for the publication’s content . The editor-in-chief sets the editorial policy, decides on the editorial calendar , and guides the publication’s stance on various issues. They ensure the editorials align with the publication’s vision, values, and voice. In addition, the editor-in-chief often represents the publication in public forums. It interacts with readers, responding to feedback and criticism.

The collaboration between these roles forms the lifeblood of the editorial process. Together, they ensure that the editorials are well-written and persuasive and adhere to the highest standards of journalism. By understanding these roles and their interplay, one can appreciate the teamwork and expertise that go into crafting impactful editorials that influence public opinion and inspire change.

Ethical Considerations in Editorial Writing

Editorial writing, with its potential to influence public opinion and inspire change, comes with significant ethical responsibilities. Upholding these principles is critical to maintaining trust, credibility, and integrity in writing editorials. Ethical considerations include accuracy, fairness, and the careful separation of fact from opinion.

Writing Editorials

Accuracy is the cornerstone of ethical journalism. Given their persuasive power, editorials can significantly influence readers’ viewpoints, making it imperative to base arguments on accurate and reliable information. This requires meticulous fact-checking and verification of data, even when the editorial leans toward opinion and interpretation. An inaccurate editorial undermines its credibility and can also mislead the public, potentially leading to harmful consequences.

Fairness, though more challenging to uphold in the subjective realm of editorials, is equally important. This in editorial writing means considering different perspectives on an issue, even if the editorial ultimately advocates a specific viewpoint. It involves being transparent about the editorial’s stance, acknowledging counterarguments, and treating subjects of criticism with respect and dignity. It’s about creating space for dialogue and debate, not shutting down dissenting voices.

Separating fact from opinion is another crucial ethical consideration. While editorials are inherently opinionated, it’s essential to clearly distinguish between what is a fact and what is an interpretation or opinion. This clarity allows readers to discern between the objective reality and the subjective viewpoint being presented, enabling them to form their own informed opinions.

Conflict of Interest

Editorial teams often grapple with ethical challenges, such as potential conflicts of interest, pressure from advertisers or stakeholders, or the dilemma of covering sensitive topics. Navigating these challenges demands a solid ethical compass, a commitment to journalistic integrity, and a willingness to make tough decisions.

Ultimately, the power of editorials lies in their ability to persuade and their commitment to uphold ethical standards. Editorial writers can create impactful narratives that resonate with readers, promote informed discourse, and contribute to a healthier public dialogue by ensuring accuracy, fairness, and clarity between facts and opinions. Ethical considerations are not just a responsibility but a cornerstone of the art and craft of editorial writing.

The Impact of Digital Media on Editorials

Digital media’s advent has ushered in a transformative era for editorials, as seen through various modern editorial examples. The landscape has expanded beyond traditional print mediums, accommodating online publications, social media, and multimedia platforms, all contributing to a dynamic editorial environment.

Some Editorial Examples

Online publication.

The shift towards online publications is a notable development in the digital era. For instance, newspapers like The New York Times and The Guardian publish editorials online promptly following significant global events. This trend signifies the acceleration of editorial processes due to digital platforms, enabling the instantaneous dissemination of insights and opinions on a global scale. This sharply contrasts print media’s slower timelines, demonstrating digital technology’s profound influence on editorial publication timelines.

Social Media

Social media has also significantly impacted editorial reach and engagement. Editorial examples on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, which are instantly accessible, shareable, and open for discussion, have allowed a broader audience to engage with the content. Take, for instance, an editorial on climate change policy posted on a publication’s Twitter handle. The immediate retweets, replies, and shares expand the editorial’s impact, fostering wider conversations and adding diverse perspectives to the dialogue.

Mulimedia Elements

Moreover, incorporating multimedia elements has redefined the experience of reading editorials . An exceptional example is The New York Times ‘Snow Fall: The Avalanche at Tunnel Creek.’ This groundbreaking editorial seamlessly integrated text, video, imagery, and interactive graphics, providing an immersive narrative experience. The piece set a benchmark for the potential of multimedia editorials in enriching the storytelling process and enhancing reader engagement.

The growth of podcasts, too, has extended editorials into the auditory realm. For example, The Economist’s audio editorials provide an alternative for readers who prefer listening over reading without compromising the essence of the editorial content.

These editorial examples illuminate how digital media has reimagined editorials, broadening their reach, enhancing their format, and fostering interactivity. As we navigate the evolving digital landscape, it’s clear that digital tools continue to reshape the nature and potency of editorials in contemporary discourse.

Steps to Crafting Your Own Editorial

The journey of crafting an editorial, while demanding, can be both enlightening and fulfilling. As a powerful medium to voice opinions and provoke thought, editorial writing is essential for anyone aspiring to influence public discourse. Here is a step-by-step guide .

How to Write an Editorial

Select a relevant topic.

Start by choosing a current, relevant topic that interests you. The more passionate you are about the subject, the more effectively you can argue your stance and engage your readers.

Thorough Research

Once you’ve chosen your topic, conduct thorough research . Understand various perspectives, gather reliable data, and identify experts’ viewpoints. It’s not enough to know just your perspective; understanding counterarguments strengthens your own.

Formulate Your Stance

After your research, formulate a clear stance. This becomes your thesis statement – the backbone of your editorial. Your viewpoint should be definitive, allowing you to present a persuasive argument.

Draft an Outline

Before diving into writing, draft an outline. Start with an introduction that presents the issue and your thesis. Follow this with body paragraphs that include arguments and counterarguments, supporting each with relevant evidence. Conclude with a powerful call to action.

Now, write your first draft. Engage your audience with clear language and a persuasive tone. Use facts and logic to substantiate your claims and appeal to the readers’ emotions to make your point resonate. To strengthen your narrative, incorporate editorial writing techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos.

Revise and Edit

Remember to consider the importance of revision and editing. Check for clarity, logical flow, and consistency in your argument. Refine language, fix grammatical errors, and ensure you have cited all sources appropriately.

Solicit Feedback

Before publishing, seek feedback. Fresh eyes can provide invaluable insights into the clarity and persuasiveness of your argument.

Finalize and Publish

Based on feedback, make final revisions. Now, your editorial is ready for publication.

Writing an editorial is an art that requires practice. It’s about presenting an engaging argument that informs and influences. With research, careful planning, and a passion for your topic, you can craft an editorial that leaves a lasting impact.

What is an editorial, and what purpose does it serve? 

An editorial is a journalistic piece that presents the publication’s viewpoint on an issue. It shapes public opinion, promotes critical thinking, and provokes discussions on relevant topics.

What are the critical elements of influential editorials? 

Influential editorials have a clear point of view, a logical argument, compelling evidence, and a solid call to action. These elements work together to create a persuasive narrative.

What are some of the rhetorical techniques used in editorials? 

Rhetorical techniques in editorials include ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic). These build trust with the audience, evoke emotional responses, and provide logical reasons to support the argument.

What are the different types of editorials? 

Editorials can be interpretive, persuasive, criticism, or praise. Each type serves a different purpose and is used under specific circumstances.

What are some ethical considerations in editorial writing?

Ethical considerations include accuracy, fairness, and a clear separation of facts from opinions. Editorial writers must strive for truth and objectivity, ensuring their arguments are backed by credible evidence.

Learn How To Develop Launch-Ready Creative Products

Download  How to Turn Your Creativity into a Product,  a  FREE  starter kit.

Advertisement

Create a Memorable Social Media Experience

Get the content planner that makes social media 10x easier.

Invite Your Customers To A Whole New World

Create a unique user experience.

Maximize Your Brand and Make Your Mark

Custom brand assets will take you to new heights.

Rank a Website: How to Use Guest Blogging for SEO

Anatomy of a Magazine: How to Shape Perception

Storytelling: How to Use it in Marketing

Business Landscape: How to Understand Trend Analysis

Crafting Powerful Headlines: What You Need to Know

Faceless Affiliate Marketing: What You Need to Know

April 4, 2024

Geoengineering Test Quietly Launches Salt Crystals into Atmosphere

A solar geoengineering experiment in San Francisco could lead to brighter clouds that reflect sunlight. The risks are numerous

By Corbin Hiar & E&E News

An aerial view of a layer of stratocumulus clouds.

SubstanceP/Getty Images

CLIMATEWIRE | The nation's first outdoor test to limit global warming by increasing cloud cover launched Tuesday from the deck of a decommissioned aircraft carrier in the San Francisco Bay.

The experiment, which organizers didn't widely announce to avoid public backlash, marks the acceleration of a contentious field of research known as solar radiation modification. The concept involves shooting substances such as aerosols into the sky to reflect sunlight away from the Earth.

The move led by researchers at the University of Washington has renewed questions about how to effectively and ethically study promising climate technologies that could also harm communities and ecosystems in unexpected ways. The experiment is spraying microscopic salt particles into the air, and the secrecy surrounding its timing caught even some experts off guard.

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing . By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

"Since this experiment was kept under wraps until the test started, we are eager to see how public engagement is being planned and who will be involved," said Shuchi Talati, the executive director of the Alliance for Just Deliberation on Solar Geoengineering, a nonprofit that seeks to include developing countries in decisions about solar modification, also known as geoengineering. She is not involved in the experiment and only learned about it after being contacted by a reporter.

"While it complies with all current regulatory requirements, there is a clear need to reexamine what a strong regulatory framework must look like in a world where [solar radiation modification] experimentation is happening," Talati added.

The Coastal Atmospheric Aerosol Research and Engagement, or CAARE, project is using specially built sprayers to shoot trillions of sea salt particles into the sky in an effort to increase the density — and reflective capacity — of marine clouds. The experiment is taking place, when conditions permit, atop the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum in Alameda, California, and will run through the end of May, according to a weather modification form the team filed with federal regulators.

The project comes as global heat continues to obliterate monthly and yearly temperature records and amid growing interest in solar radiation modification from Silicon Valley funders and some environmental groups . It also follows the termination of a Harvard University experiment last month that planned to inject reflective aerosols into the stratosphere near Sweden before it was canceled after encountering opposition from Indigenous groups.

Solar radiation modification is controversial because widespread use of technologies like marine cloud brightening could alter weather patterns in unclear ways and potentially limit the productivity of fisheries and farms. It also wouldn't address the main cause of climate change — the use of fossil fuels — and could lead to a catastrophic spike in global temperatures if major geoengineering activities were discontinued before greenhouse gases decrease to manageable levels.

The University of Washington and SilverLining, a geoengineering research advocacy group involved in the CAARE project, declined interview requests. The mayor of Alameda, where the experiment is being conducted, didn't respond to emailed questions about the project.

The secrecy surrounding the landmark experiment seems to have been by design, according to The New York Times , which, along with a local newspaper, was granted exclusive access to cover the initial firing of the spray cannons.

"The idea of interfering with nature is so contentious, organizers of Tuesday's test kept the details tightly held, concerned that critics would try to stop them," the Times reported. The White House also distanced itself from the experiment, which is being conducted with the cooperation of a Smithsonian-affiliated museum.

The project team has touted its transparency, noting that visitors to the USS Hornet, which now serves as a floating museum, will be able to view the experiment.

"The world needs to rapidly advance its understanding of the effects of aerosol particles on climate,” Kelly Wanser, the executive director of SilverLining, said in a press release. "With a deep commitment to open science and a culture of humility, the University of Washington has developed an approach that integrates science with societal engagement, and can help society in essential steps toward advancing science, developing regulations, promoting equitable and effective decision-making, and building shared understanding in these areas."

The CAARE project is part of a larger coastal study that the University of Washington consortium is planning to pursue. The second phase of that effort would take place on a pier around a mile offshore in a coastal environment, according to a study description the school released Monday.

While a peer review of that proposal was generally positive, the scientists also flagged some transparency shortcomings.

"One reviewer noted that it would help to have more information on the site location," said a Washington-University- commissioned report . "Is there local resistance or concerns (whether founded or unfounded) around issues like local air quality, etc.? How many options exist, and how do different options affect the field study plan?"

The study plan also made no mention of its potential ecological impacts, a key consideration recommended by a 2022 Biden administration marine cloud brightening workshop . That's a significant oversight, according to Greg Goldsmith, the associate dean for research and development at Chapman University.

"History has shown us that when we insert ourselves into modification of nature, there are always very serious unintended consequences," said Goldsmith, who studies the implications of climate change for plant structure and function. "And therefore, it would be prudent to listen to what history has shown and look for consequences."

Reprinted from E&E News with permission from POLITICO, LLC. Copyright 2024. E&E News provides essential news for energy and environment professionals.

Editor’s Note (4/8/24): Our partners at Climatewire have edited this article after posting to clarify that neither Shuchi Talati nor the Alliance for Just Deliberation on Solar Geoengineering is involved in the described solar geoengineering project.

Editorials | Editorial: We need cool heads — and no more…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Clarence Page

Editorials | Editorial: We need cool heads — and no more knee-jerk responses — regarding the police shooting of Dexter Reed

Nicole Banks, the mother of Dexter Reed, asks for peace while people argue with officers while attending a rally, April 9, 2024, at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the fatal shooting of her son, who was killed in an "exchange of gunfire" with officers on March 21. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Porscha Banks, the sister of Dexter Reed, argues with officers while attending a rally, April 9, 2024, at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed, who was killed in an "exchange of gunfire" with officers on March 21. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Porscha Banks, the sister of Dexter Reed, along with other demonstrators, attend a protest at the Chicago police Harrison District (11th) station on April 9, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Activists and family members argue with officers while attending a rally for Dexter Reed at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) on April 9, 2024. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Activists and family members argue with officers while attending a rally for Dexter Reed at the Chicago police Harrison District station on April 9, 2024. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Officers watch protesters during a rally at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed, 26, who was killed March 21, in an "exchange of gunfire" with officers Tuesday April 9, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Holding a sign of her brother, Porscha Banks, the sister of Dexter Reed, argues with officers while attending a protest at the Chicago police Harrison District (11th) station on April 9, 2024. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

A fight breaks out at a rally at the Chicago Police Department Harrison District (11th) on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the police involved fatal shooting of Dexter Reed, 26. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Activists attend a protest, April 9, 2024, at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) station after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed, 26, who was killed March 21, in an "exchange of gunfire" with officers. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

A man is chased during a rally for Dexter Reed at the Chicago police Harrison District (11th) station on April 9, 2024. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Activists attend a rally at CPD’s Harrison District (11th) station, April 9, 2024, after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed, 26, who was killed March 21, in an "exchange of gunfire" with officers. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

A demonstrator holds up a sign at a protest outside the Chicago Police Department Harrison District (11th) on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, after the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video of the police involved fatal shooting of Dexter Reed. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Activists and family members attend a rally for Dexter Reed at the Chicago police Harrison District (11th) station on April 9, 2024. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

A still image from a video released by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability shows a group of Chicago police officers surrounding a vehicle driven by Dexter Reed, 26, moments before an "exchange of gunfire" in which Reed was fatally shot on March 21, 2024, on the West Side. (Chicago Police Department)

Nicole Banks, center, and Dexter Reed Sr., left, listen as attorney Andrew M. Stroth speaks about their son, Dexter Reed Jr., on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters after video of Reed Jr.’s death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Dexter Reed Sr., speaks about the death of his son, Dexter Reed Jr., on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters after video of Reed Jr.’s death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Porscha Banks, second from left, cries and is consoled by her mother, Nicole Banks, right, while family members speak about their brother and son, Dexter Reed, on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters after video of his death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Nicole Banks, center, is supported by family members while speaking about her son, Dexter Reed, on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters. A video showing his death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released today. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, left, and Chief Administrator of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability Andrea Kersten arrive to discuss the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed by police and the video footage of the fatal shooting during a news conference at City Hall on April 9, 2024. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Family members of Dexter Reed hold photos from his memorial service on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters after video of his death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Nicole Banks, center, and Dexter Reed Sr., back left, listen as attorney Andrew M. Stroth speaks about their son, Dexter Reed Jr., on April 9, 2024, outside COPA headquarters after video of Reed Jr.’s death in a shooting by Chicago police last month was released. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Chief Administrator of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Andrea Kersten, left, heads to the podium as Mayor Brandon Johnson walks past, to discuss the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed during a press conference at City Hall on April 9, 2024. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Dexter Reed (5), playing for Westinghouse, center, looks to pass the ball away from Hyde Park Academy's DaQuan Fairley (11) during the second half of their game at Hyde Park Academy High School in Chicago on Feb. 6, 2017. (Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune)

Westinghouse's Dexter Reed (5), left, and Hyde Park Academy's Shomari Tillett (10), during the first half of their game at Hyde Park Academy High School on Feb. 6, 2017, in Chicago. (Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune)

In a city where public safety is by far the most worrying issue, the last thing Chicago needed was another police shooting ending in death for anyone — officers or civilians. But in the death of 26-year-old Dexter Reed in Humboldt Park last month, that’s what we have, and so we must confront the facts wherever they lead, as dispassionately and productively as possible.

The first and most obvious lesson: If you’re stopped by police and asked to roll down your window or get out of your car, do so. And if you shoot at police, they will — and should — shoot back. Lost by too many in the anger over Reed’s death was the fact that he shot a police officer who, as Mayor Brandon Johnson properly noted on Tuesday following release of the multiple videos offering views of what happened, was lucky to escape with the injuries he did. We easily could have been mourning two deaths here.

Even the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, with whom police Superintendent Larry Snelling has grappled over what he believes to be overly critical positions on police conduct, concluded that Reed shot first at cops who were yelling at him to unlock his car and get out. Again, Mayor Johnson: “Shooting a police officer can never be condoned. … I will never stand for that, and neither will the city of Chicago.”

That was a critically important note for the mayor to strike in remarks that also bemoaned the loss of yet another young Black man’s life and expressed determination to ascertain all the facts and hold people accountable where appropriate.

Unlike Johnson and Snelling, both of whom said just enough to reflect the gravity of the situation without inflaming matters with speculation and opinion before all the facts are unearthed and reported, COPA Chief Administrator Andrea Kersten felt free to share her opinions far and wide, including during a conveniently timed appearance at the City Club. Among the most questionable of those was her view (injudiciously expressed in advance of a completed investigation) that the cops’ response to Reed’s multiple shots at them wasn’t “proportional.” Police shot 96 times while Reed fired considerably fewer shots, although there have been conflicting reports of how many.

So, are we now going to criticize — or, as some want, prosecute — police who fail to count how many bullets are flying their way before shooting back and ensuring the number of shots is “proportional?” Even after a fellow officer has been shot? We are asking officers to risk their lives every day on the streets of a city awash in guns, many of them illegal. (Reed was facing past charges for illegal gun use.) Requiring cops to respond “proportionately” when someone is shooting at them not only is unreasonable; it will make recruiting new officers even harder.

A Chicago police officer’s job only has gotten more dangerous. Cops were shot or shot at 68 times in 2023 versus 55 times in 2022, WGN-TV reported. The number of people shot by police dropped over that same time frame to 11 from 18.

Making this awful incident far worse than it already is were the inflammatory postings of former mayoral candidate Ja’Mal Green over the weekend before the Tuesday release of the videos. Green posted on X, formerly Twitter, that he’d been “briefed” on the content of the videos and that they showed an “execution” and that “charges may be forthcoming.” (He later deleted the post.) Among the many questions to be answered is how Green got “briefed” on anything regarding this subject before public release or public discussion by someone in a position to be privy to the videos.

Needless to say, Green’s sensational language and wild speculation days before the public had access to the videos social media served only to inflame and not inform. Whatever credibility Green might have had before last weekend is severely compromised.

That brings us to the matter of why this incident took place in the first place. There are numerous questions about why plainclothes police officers stopped Reed’s vehicle. Apparently, the reason given was failure to wear a seatbelt. COPA head Kersten publicly wondered whether the cops were lying, saying the tinted windows in Reed’s SUV would have made it difficult if not impossible to see whether he was belted.

Leaving aside the inappropriateness of Kersten offering such an opinion at this stage, given her role running an agency recommending whether and how cops should be reprimanded, any reasonable person will wonder why this stop was necessary. Had it not taken place, after all, one Chicagoan would still be alive and a police officer would not have been wounded.

The issue of traffic-stop consequences has been effectively raised by Impact for Equity, a 55-year-old nonprofit (formerly BPI, or Businessmen in the Public Interest), focused on racial and economic justice. Coincidentally, the group released a report just last week showing traffic stops by Chicago police increased 5% in 2023 following a 35% increase in 2022. Black drivers were stopped in more than half of those instances even though they make up 29% of Chicago’s population. Nearly three-quarters of the stops weren’t for moving violations but were due to license plate issues and burned out taillights or license plate lights, the group reported. About a fifth of the stops occurred in two West Side police districts that are home to less than 10% of city residents.

Critics accuse the police of using minor infractions as excuses to search vehicles for illegal guns and other contraband.

Snelling reportedly expressed concern about the high number of traffic stops when interviewing for the top cop job and has said there are considerably fewer stops so far this year. Still, the tragic loss of life on March 21 raises serious questions about the department’s current policing strategy. Snelling needs to inform the public forthrightly about whether traffic stops for matters as minor as seat belt violations continue to be an integral part of how cops seek to keep us safe and, if not, how the policy is changing.

People on all sides of the public safety question agree there’s a desperate need for more trust between police and the public when it comes to solving violent crime. This is acutely so in Black neighborhoods. When law-abiding Black drivers are stopped repeatedly for what they believe are prejudicial or otherwise hidden reasons — and virtually any Black man can offer stories of his own experience along those lines — that lack of trust is exacerbated all the more.

The mayor’s words were accurate. This entire incident was deeply disturbing.

More in Editorials

Editorials | Editorial: O’Hare’s boosters are finally realizing that the airlines are, in fact, the clients

Editorials | Editorial: O.J. Simpson’s fraught legacy is one on its own

Editorials | Editorial: A happy, funky Trader Joe’s gets a union push. Why?

Editorials | Editorial: We shouldn’t have to subsidize union jobs with higher utility bills. A terrible idea surfaces in Springfield.

Trending nationally.

• Florida COVID death toll nears 2,300 in 2024; experts urge updated vaccines
• The most infamous serial killers all seem to have something in common — they’re from the Midwest
• Trump is about to go on trial in New York. Here’s what to expect
• World’s oldest conjoined twins, who lived in Reading, Pa., have died
• Is California still the world’s 5th largest economy?

EDITORIAL article

This article is part of the research topic.

Women in Biogeochemical Dynamics Research: 2022

Editorial Frontiers in Environmental Science "Women in Biogeochemical Dynamics Research" Provisionally Accepted

• 1 Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, France
• 2 Institute of Marine Sciences, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Spain

The final, formatted version of the article will be published soon.

At present, less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women. Long-standing biases and gender stereotypes are discouraging girls and women away from science-related fields, and STEM research in particular. Science and gender equality are, however, essential to ensure sustainable development as highlighted by UNESCO. In order to change traditional mindsets, gender equality must be promoted, stereotypes defeated, and girls and women should be encouraged to pursue STEM careers.Therefore, we are proud to offer this platform in Frontiers in Environmental Science to promote the work of women scientists. To be considered for this collection, the first, last, or corresponding author should be a researcher who identifies as a woman The papers presented here highlight the diversity of research performed across the entire breadth of Biogeochemical Dynamics research and the advances in theory, experiment, and methodology with applications to compelling problems. Contributions to this journal showcase the breadth and depth of investigations aimed at understanding and mitigating human impacts on our planet.One significant study by Chua and Fulweiler (2023) highlights the importance of hightemporal-resolution gas concentration measurements in capturing the rapid response of sediments to low-oxygen conditions. This research sheds light on the dynamic nature of sedimentary processes and underscores the necessity of precise monitoring techniques in studying environmental phenomena.In another investigation, Forsyth et al. (2023) delve into the bioconcentration and translocation of rare earth elements in plants from legacy mine sites in Portugal. Their findings not only contribute to our understanding of plant-metal interactions but also have implications for environmental management strategies in areas affected by mining activities.Meanwhile, Ismail and Al-Shehhi (2023) offer a comprehensive review of biogeochemical models' applications in various marine environments. By synthesizing existing knowledge, the authors provide valuable insights into the role of these models in elucidating complex biogeochemical processes and guiding sustainable marine resource management practices. Lavergne et al. (2024) draw attention to the importance of conserving microorganisms in terrestrial ecosystems, focusing on soil microbial diversity in Chile and the Antarctic Peninsula. Their work underscores the need for heightened awareness and proactive conservation efforts to safeguard these essential components of ecosystem functioning.In a study with implications for land management practices, Rissanen et al. (2023) investigate the vegetation impacts on methane emissions from boreal forestry-drained peatlands. Their findings highlight the role of moss cover in modulating emissions and emphasize the importance of considering vegetation dynamics in peatland management strategies.Addressing the pervasive issue of plastic pollution in marine environments, Romera-Castillo et al. ( 2022) quantify the leaching of dissolved organic matter from aged plastic and its impact on microbial activity. This research underscores the urgent need to mitigate plastic pollution and its cascading effects on marine ecosystems. Furthermore, Santos et al. (2022) employ leaf wax biomarkers to reconstruct environmental conditions in a high-mountain lake area in western Iberia. Their work illustrates the utility of biomarker analysis in paleoenvironmental reconstructions and contributes to our understanding of past environmental changes. Sun et al. (2023) investigate the release of inorganic mercury and subsequent methylmercury production in boreal peatlands due to ground warming. Their findings underscore the complex interactions between climate change and mercury cycling in peatland ecosystems, highlighting the need for integrated approaches to mitigate mercury pollution.Lastly, Vila-Costa et al. (2023) data represent a significant step forward in unraveling the intricate interactions between pelagic marine bacteria and organic pollutants. By conducting comprehensive field studies in the tropical Pacific and subtropical Atlantic Oceans, the researchers provide invaluable insights into the responses of these bacteria to various pollutants.Collectively, these studies exemplify the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of research featured by women in Environmental Science. By advancing our understanding of environmental processes and informing evidence-based management strategies, these contributions play a crucial role in addressing the myriad challenges facing our planet. As we navigate the complexities of the Anthropocene, women scientists are at the forefront of fostering dialogue and innovation to promote environmental sustainability and stewardship. In the realm of biogeochemical dynamics research, women scientists have long been making significant contributions, yet their achievements and perspectives are sometimes overlooked or underrepresented. As we strive for inclusivity and diversity in the scientific community, it's imperative to shine a spotlight on the invaluable work of women researchers in this field. It's essential to amplify their voices, recognize their contributions, and support their career advancement. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values diversity, we can harness the full potential of women scientists and unlock new insights into the complex dynamics of our planet's biogeochemical cycles. In conclusion, women scientists are driving innovation, discovery, and progress in biogeochemical dynamics research. Their expertise, leadership, and dedication are indispensable assets in tackling the environmental challenges of the 21st century. Let us continue to celebrate and uplift the contributions of women in science, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.

Keywords: women in STEM, environmental science, Biogeochemical Dynamics Research, Gender Equality, Diversity in Science

Received: 09 Apr 2024; Accepted: 11 Apr 2024.

Copyright: © 2024 Cosio, Bravo and Sebastian. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

* Correspondence: Mx. Claudia Cosio, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France

People also looked at

Robe shipwreck researchers look for clues to bust myths and build Dutch connections

Residents of a town in South Australia's south-east are being enlisted in research into a shipwreck that killed 16 Dutch sailors in 1857 soon after offloading 400 gold miners from China.

More scrutiny is also on objects thought to have come from the shipwreck of the Koning Willem de Tweede that actually may have been from other shipwrecks. 

On June 30, 1857, the Koning Willem de Tweede (King William II) was run aground on Robe's Long Beach during a storm by a captain trying to save it.

Instead, the Dutch ship was "beaten to matchsticks", according to James Hunter, who is leading a project researching the disaster.

Dr Hunter, curator of naval heritage and archaeology at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, said the waves that hit it might have been up to six metres high.

"These waves were smashing into this ship repeatedly and it was a timber vessel," he said.

"It was old — by this point it had been around for several years — so it didn't take long for it to start to break apart."

Dr Hunter and conservator Heather Berry were part of a team that found what appears to be the site of the shipwreck off Long Beach in 2022.

It is buried in metres of sand and has not yet been reached by divers.

Objects washed up from ship

The ship had come to Robe from Hong Kong so the Chinese gold miners on board could avoid a tax on immigrants arriving by sea in Victoria .

Because the wreck happened so quickly — in perhaps about half an hour — very little was removed from the ship, with the focus instead on saving the crew.

However, Dr Hunter and Ms Berry, from the Silentworld Foundation which funds research into maritime archaeology and heritage, believe many items from the ship would have washed up on Long Beach since.

"There's a lot of ceramics that have washed up over the years, glass and of course bits of the ship itself – maybe parts that were being used or maybe other parts that were being stored in case of need for repairs," Ms Berry said.

Advice on conservation

Ms Berry has put together a booklet about how to conserve items people find from shipwrecks that applies particularly to Robe but also to other places around Australia.

Crockery is commonly found but Ms Berry said it could disintegrate if it was not looked after properly after being under water for sometimes hundreds of years.

"If you don't desalinate them properly then you will lose the glaze because, as the salt recrystallises, it just pops off that glaze," she said.

"It's quite impressive to actually look at – I've seen a few examples of it – but it is ultimately sad because you've lost that information."

The booklet is being launched in Robe today with a workshop on the same topic planned for tomorrow at the Robe Customs House Maritime Museum.

People can bring in objects they have found for advice on conserving, which Dr Hunter and Ms Berry can examine to determine historical value.

Connections to today

A bell believed to have come from the ship was rung at Robe Primary School from its founding in 1886 until about 15 years ago to bring students in from lunch and recess.

A replica now stands in its place with the original in the local maritime museum.

If Dr Hunter is not completely sure the bell came from the Koning Willem de Tweede he is very sceptical about a cannon near the museum overlooking Town Beach and an arch commemorating the Chinese migrants of the 1850s.

Because of its British design, he thinks it may have come from another ship wrecked near Robe in 1857, the Sultana.  

"There's all sorts of things that suggest it could well have been — but maybe not — so the first thing I'd really like to do is nail down where that stuff came from — the things that we already know about," he said.

Building Dutch relations

Most of the funding for the project comes from the Dutch government as part of a push by the Netherlands to strengthen ties with Australia. 

The Dutch embassy's cultural attaché, Xenia Hanusiak, said the ship was one of five or six Dutch commercial ships that brought Chinese to Australia at the time.

She said many Australians knew about the Dutch East India Company ships that wrecked in Western Australia in the 1600s but the later history was less well known.

"Even though the Dutch had been travelling by happenstance in the 17th century to the shores and some of the boats were shipwrecked, this we would see as an example of when the Dutch perhaps became interested in settling in Australia for mercantile benefits," Ms Hanusiak said.

While in Robe, Dr Hunter and Ms Berry also visited the old police stables handed over to the National Trust six years ago to look at how objects there could be preserved.

Robe National Trust branch secretary Valerie Monaghan said it was good to have them in town.

"People with metal detectors still pick up things on Long Beach and it’s really important that we keep track of what’s found and keep the things that are really worth keeping," she said.

Researchers plan to return to Robe next summer to use more techniques to look into the wreck, including probing, using metal detectors and fanning (waving sand away with the hands).

ABC South East SA — local news in your inbox

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Chinese migrants walked a gruelling 500km to victoria's goldfields in the 19th century. some wouldn't survive.

After more than 180 years, the Indigenous side of a notorious shipwreck story will be told

Tombstone tourists: Stories of the dead come alive

• Archaeology
• Maritime Accidents and Incidents