Editorial Photography: The Complete Guide for Photographers and Creatives
Introduction
Editorial work tells stories. Found alongside articles in magazines and online features, editorial images go beyond simple portraits or product shots — they create mood, context, and narrative. Whether you want to shoot fashion spreads, magazine portraits, or documentary-style features, understanding editorial work will level up your portfolio and open doors to publications and commercial storytelling projects.
What is editorial photography?
Editorial photography refers to images created to accompany editorial content — articles, features, and storytelling journalism. These images can be staged or candid, but the key is narrative: each frame should support an idea, mood, or message. Unlike advertising, editorial imagery prioritizes storytelling over direct product promotion.
Editorial vs. commercial and fashion work
It helps to know the difference between editorial work, commercial shoots, and fashion photography. Commercial projects are paid by brands to sell products or services and often include strict usage terms. Editorial work usually appears next to written content where the image supports a story. Fashion photography overlaps with editorial when it tells a style story for magazines; think of the spreads in Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar — those are editorial fashion photography at its finest.
How to plan an editorial shoot
Concept & moodboard — Start with a strong concept. Create a moodboard with reference images, color palettes, and poses.
Story arc — Define the narrative: what’s the opening image, the emotional core, and the closing frame?
Team & styling — Editorial projects are collaborative. Partner with stylists, makeup artists, and art directors to realize the concept.
Locations & permits — Scout locations that fit your story. For public spaces, check permits and timing.
Shot list & schedule — Plan anchor shots and variations. Allow time for set changes and styling tweaks.
Camera settings and lighting for editorial work
Natural light: For intimate portraits and lifestyle spreads use soft window light and reflectors.
Off-camera flash: For dramatic fashion spreads use modifiers (softboxes, grids) to control mood.
Lenses: 35mm and 50mm for environmental portraits; 85mm and 135mm for tighter headshots with creamy bokeh.
Composing images that tell a story
Use foreground elements for depth, leading lines to guide the eye, and negative space to create mood. Every composition choice should strengthen the narrative — ask: does this element add to the story?
Directing models & subjects
Directing is part craft, part empathy. Give simple directives, demonstrate poses, and use emotional cues (“remember a quiet summer evening”) to capture authentic expression. For non-models, keep directions conversational to relax them.
Styling, wardrobe, and prop selection
Wardrobe is a storytelling tool. Choose fabrics, colors, and accessories that match your concept. Props should feel lived-in and relevant — avoid anything that reads like an advertisement unless that suits the story.
Practical tips for beginners
Start with personal editorial projects to build a portfolio.
Study magazine spreads for lighting, color grading, and pace.
Collaborate with stylists and creative directors.
Submit to online platforms and PhotoVogue to gain exposure.
How to pitch editorial projects to magazines
Research the magazine’s voice and previous spreads.
Send 3–6 strong images with a concise concept note.
State rights clearly — many editors expect one-time editorial use.
Follow up politely and cultivate relationships.
Building your editorial portfolio
Show storytelling range: include a fashion spread, a portrait sequence, and an environmental story. Add captions that credit collaborators and explain concepts — this helps editors understand intent.