The streets during London’s SS25 Fashion Week shows were filled with energy, denim, texture, colour, and amazing people I was delighted to meet.
As a fashion photographer who moved to London only a couple of months ago, seeing the street style and the connections being made validated London as my new home.
Before London Fashion Week SS25, all my fashion photography work was either directed shoots or candid street photography. Rarely, if ever, did I approach people on the street for posed portraits.
At fashion week, I wanted a challenge and I left my typical lens at home and opted for a pancake 28mm lens that I rarely use. It’s the smallest lens Canon makes for its mirrorless cameras. It’s popular for street photography – but not often for fashion portraits. With zoom lenses being the default for paparazzi-style London Fashion Week photos, I wanted to capture a perspective that others omit.
The fixed focal length is notably wide, which is great for getting full outfits and portraits in the frame; however, to make the most out of the lens, you need to get up close and there’s no compromise – especially with fashion as the focus.
Sticking to my comfort zone of snapping candid moments from a distance (which, for most, avoids the awkwardness in street photography), wasn’t possible with my lens. With the best outfits passing by and out of reach, I began approaching people.
Approaching strangers always intimidated me and I deferred to saying it was “not my style” to appease myself. Conversely, the warm receptions I received quickly dissolved any apprehension.
In short succession over London’s fashion week, I approached over 150 stylish invitees for their portraits. This collection is of my favourite women’s and unisex fits that I documented. I hope they bring inspiration to your wardrobe next season and give credit where deserved to these stylish individuals.
Once finished, check out my best of men’s and unisex street style at London Fashion Week SS25.
