Fashion Week High

This was the first season that I really actively took pictures at the shows - reason being, I was backstage. Ive found its almost impossible to get good pictures of the runway even on the rare occasion that I have a prime view, and even presentations lately have been packed like sardines. But oddly backstage is different. First of all, no one yells. (At the beginning of the actual show, theres almost always some kind of scuffle in the pit, and the inevitable UNCROSS YOUR LEGS command to the front row - and dont think they bark it any more kindly when Annas there). Backstage, everyone moves silently around the artists creating and hair and makeup. The models are asked nicely for photos, and thanked. At one point I literally (accidentally) stood in the dead middle of someones shot - between them and their assistant holding the light, right in front of the model - and took a photo. They asked me to please move. I mean, I personally wouldnt have put it that way if I were them - to me, with my platform booties and a Lumix in my hand - ya know? It was pretty generous. I think because the vibe was so gentle amidst the chaos, I stepped aside A LOT and let the people who were clearly contracted to shoot get theirshots. I relished the walk throughs, when the artists would drop their work so the models could rehearse the show ... it was the only time I could capture the tools of trade without invading their workspace. Im not a photographer, thats why I got Rachel involved to shoot for Cult of Pretty, but I learned a lot this season because I was armed with a camera ... a little like a badge of permission, a little like a shield. Many MANY thanks to the amazing team at IFB (and Milk Made) for access to the shows at Milk Studios & The Standard (above). The best. energy. ever!