Photographic Stylist

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with others
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of the fine arts
• excellent verbal communication skills
• design skills and knowledge
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

In your day-to-day duties may:

• receive instructions (the ‘brief’) from the photographer or art director and come up with ideas
• decide on the best clothes, accessories and backgrounds to achieve the desired look
• buy, borrow or hire props, clothing and accessories
• arrange a set
• dress models and make any adjustments
• keep a stock of fashion or home accessories
• build good relationships with shops, prop suppliers, PR agencies, photographers and models
• keep up to date with trends

You could work in a creative studio, from home or in an office.

Your working environment may be at height and you'll travel often.

You should try and get as much work experience as possible. It'll help you to make contacts in the industry and allow you to learn on the job.

You could approach photographers and stylists and offer to help them, or contact magazines and newspapers about possible work placements.

The British Institute of Professional Photography has a useful contacts section.

Career tips

Work experience in fashion retail, visual design or interior design can be useful.

You'll need a portfolio with examples of your styling work to show to potential employers. These are known as 'tear sheets' and include photos or published magazine pages.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the British Institute of Professional Photography for professional development.

Further information

You'll find more details about working in the photographic industry from the British Institute of Professional Photography.