Why good chemistry is important between models for fashion photography.

This post is one in a series in what I like to call Fashion Focus. With fashion photography, there’s a very slim chance that your models you need will have real chemistry between them. As a photographer, we make photographs come to life, create interest in interactions, and emulate emotion. When shooting a scene that involves two people in an intimate setting or relationship, you have to make it believable.

Take a look at this photograph. This fashion photoshoot was inspired by the 1920s, also known as the roaring 20s. While I did direct my models, Ana and Josh, to pose this way, you can still notice how there isn’t any chemistry or a spark of connection between the two.

Compare the photo of Josh and Ana to this one of Brianna and Josh Miller. Isn’t this just already better?! When shooting couples or groups for fashion photography, it’s vital that you create the connection and chemistry between the models. I think the reason why the chemistry is more believable is because of how relaxed both of the models are. I love how Josh is leaning into Brianna and he has that love smize going on.

Here’s some more pictures of Josh and Brianna.

Take a look at some of the sample images from Lindsay Adler’s course on how to photograph couples.