Renowned for its futuristic skyline harmonizing effortlessly with high fashion allure, Dubai has emerged as an irresistible destination for Fashion photography. Situated in the vibrant heart of the Middle East, it serves as a symbol of modernity and a center of luxury, fashion, and unmatched creativity. With its opulent settings, diverse culture, and vibrant fashion scene, Dubai has cemented its status as the fashion capital of the UAE, boasting an impressive $11.5 billion in luxury goods spending.
The city’s international allure and a high percentage of young and brand-loyal millennials offer an ideal backdrop for Fashion photography that demands the attention of a global audience. The dynamic blend of traditional and modern, coupled with the city’s reputation for luxury and style, provides endless inspiration for photographers to capture the essence of contemporary fashion against a backdrop of architectural marvels and desert landscapes.
At Wonderful Machine, we define Fashion photography as imagery emphasizing clothes, shoes, and accessories. It is typically showcased by professional models but may also encompass still-life compositions. With Dubai as the canvas, the city’s unique aesthetics elevate Fashion photography to new heights, blending the grandeur of its urban landscape with the creativity and vision of photographers. Here are the 7 best Fashion photographers in Dubai, each reflecting the city’s dynamic fashion narrative.
Yana Kotova is an international Fashion photographer based in Dubai, who brings a distinctive flair marked to the specialty by her global travels and encounters. Yana’s work is a blend of creativity, precision, and an eye for the unique. These qualities make her stand out in the competitive field of Fashion photography. Her portfolio showcases a wide range of themes, from the vibrant streets of the world’s cities to the serene beauty of nature, reflecting her versatility and ability to capture fashion in diverse contexts. Notable projects include “La Dolce Vita,” capturing the essence of summer elegance, and “Sea and Sky,” a creative endeavor for the Ray Boutique in the UAE, demonstrating her collaborative spirit and innovative approach.
Another standout project, “Mountain Flowers,” highlights her affinity for integrating natural beauty with fashion, where she skillfully blends the softness of dresses with the ruggedness of mountains, creating visually stunning images that tell a story beyond the attire. Furthermore, her work on “Lumière,” recognized for its luxurious and timeless designs, underscores her professionalism and artistic touch, along with her reputation as a creative and innovative photographer who brings a fresh perspective to every shoot. Yana’s ability to infuse contemporary elegance into her photographs, whether working with emerging talents or established designers, sets her apart as a photographer who not only captures the moment but also the essence of fashion itself.
Marie Bärsch, a distinguished Fashion photographer, embarked on her artistic journey somewhat serendipitously. It wasn’t until her late teens that Marie discovered her affinity for photography, initially exploring it as a hobby after casually picking up a friend’s camera. This serendipitous beginning marked the start of a path that would see her transition to a professional career in 2013. Renowned for her distinct approach to Fashion and Beauty photography, Marie’s work is characterized by a blend of clean, effortless beauty aesthetics and the utilization of exotic locations.
This unique style has propelled her across the globe, leading her to work in major cities like Los Angeles, Dubai, Miami, Cape Town, and Mumbai, each known for their significance in the fashion and beauty industry. In Dubai, particularly, her work stands out, capturing the essence of beauty and fashion against the backdrop of the city’s dynamic landscape. Her ability to juxtapose beautiful bodies and faces with striking settings has earned her recognition in the industry, making her one of the notable photographers to follow for those interested in contemporary Fashion photography.
Mattia Holm is an Italian Fashion photographer, videographer, and art director, who captures idyllic beauty with a unique and refined use of light and colors. His work, celebrated for its sophisticated and modern aesthetics, has made him a notable figure internationally. Mattia’s creative journey, marked by a departure from traditional scholastic paths due to his imaginative self-expression, showcases his distinctive narrative projects where personal affections become central protagonists. This approach has allowed him to create deeply personal and meaningful imagery that stands out in the fashion industry.
Mariah Jelena is a Fashion and Beauty photographer and retoucher whose work is characterized by its versatility and global perspective. A traveler at heart, Mariah is constantly in pursuit of new experiences and opportunities across different countries, which is reflected in the dynamic and diverse nature of her portfolio. Her work spans a wide range of projects, from high fashion editorials to intimate beauty shoots, showcasing her ability to capture the essence of her subjects with a keen eye for detail and a distinct aesthetic that blends elegance with a touch of whimsy.
Her portfolio includes notable projects such as “Nature Child,” “Artem,” “Beauty: Stasya,” and collaborations with prestigious magazines and brands, highlighting her talent in creating visually compelling images that communicate the story and essence of the brands and personalities she works with. Mariah’s approach to photography, combining her skills in retouching with a deep understanding of fashion and beauty, allows her to create images that are not only visually striking but also deeply resonant with the viewer, making her a sought-after photographer in her field.
Francesco Luigi Scotti, an Italian native now based in Dubai, merges his profound connection with nature into his photographic work, capturing forms, light, and reflections inspired by the interplay of green, blue, and earth tones. Educated at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Turin, Francesco’s journey has led him to a career that spans the UAE and Europe, where he crafts conceptual and sincere imagery. His work, which has been showcased in collaborations with notable names such as Vogue Arabia and Fenty Puma Campaign for Namshi, is defined by a quest to define beauty on his terms.
Through projects like “Vogue Hatta” and his Puma campaign, Francesco showcases his ability to blend fashion with natural elements, creating visuals that are both innovative and deeply rooted in his aesthetic philosophy. His photography not only reflects his artistic vision but also embodies a sense of authenticity and conceptual depth, marking him as a distinctive voice in the realm of Fashion photography.
Vaughan Treyvellan, with a career spanning 18 years, is a renowned Beauty and Fashion photographer known for his clean, elegant, and elevated images. His degree in advertising and design has significantly shaped his unique approach to photography, enabling him to create captivating visuals that stand out in the fashion industry. Vaughan has traveled globally, bringing a wealth of diverse experiences into his work, which has also been featured in prestigious magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. His ability to capture the essence of celebrities and notable personalities, including the Princess of Monaco and Gordon Ramsay, further showcases his versatility and keen eye for detail. Vaughan’s photography, a blend of sophistication and innovation, reflects his profound understanding of both the artistic and commercial aspects of the fashion world.
Tejal Patni, an alumnus of the Sir JJ School of Applied Arts, has carved a niche in the realm of photography with a career that spans capturing the essence of fashion and corporate giants. His work, characterized by a unique blend of creativity and innovation, has graced the campaigns of Harvey Nichols, Bloomingdales, Chanel, Hugo Boss, and Emirates Airlines, among others. Perhaps most notably, Tejal’s vision has brought the “Splash Calendar” to international acclaim, showcasing his ability to blend conceptual artistry with commercial appeal.
His photography style is a testament to his philosophy of pushing boundaries and offering viewers a glimpse into the unseen. Despite his success, Tejal remains a journeyman at heart, constantly evolving his craft. His recent foray into filmmaking, following his studies at the London Film Academy, signals a continuation of his quest for motion, both in his subjects and his personal growth as an artist. Tejal’s work is not just about capturing moments but is an invitation to explore the depths of imagination and perspective.
In the dynamic world of Fashion photography in Dubai, amidst a thriving community of talented photographers, a unique specialty comes to the forefront, making its mark in the visual realm. Each of these Dubai-based Fashion photographers not only captures the essence of the city’s style scene but also unveils exceptional creativity and skill that elevate the fashion narrative.
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