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Fashion Photography: The Look and the Lens (Online)
One-day course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Join us as we explore the history, craft and cultural impact of fashion photography. From the blossoming magazine industry of the late nineteenth century to striking contemporary campaigns and editorials, the programme will trace how photography has shaped - and been shaped by - the ever-changing landscape of fashion.
Led by V&A curators, fashion scholars, magazine creatives and photographers, this study day offers the chance to examine original prints, influential magazine issues and rare material from the V&A’s collections up close.
Sessions will explore the collaborative nature of fashion image-making – from photographers and stylists to models, producers, and set designers – revealing the creative networks behind the lens. A guest fashion photographer will give a live talk and Q&A, offering insights into contemporary practice and the professional realities of working in the field today.
> Prefer to attend the study day in-person at V&A South Kensington? Book now for Fashion Photography: The Look and the Lens
Please note, the study day will not be recorded.
Please note, the study day will not be recorded.
Course leaders
Lydia Caston and Lisa Springer
Lydia Caston is Project Curator at the V&A specialising in photography and fashion. She was one of the curators of Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection. Lisa Springer is International Programmes Curator at the V&A, London, leading global projects and exhibitions including Horst: Photographer of Style.
A wonderful opportunity to learn in a world class museum Previous V&A Academy Course Attendee
Course overview
Step behind the scenes of the fashion image in this one-day course and explore the history and evolving practice of fashion photography. From early fashion magazines to today’s bold innovations, discover how the look - and the lens - have shaped style and visual culture. Hear from curators, photographers and leading creatives redefining the field today.
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One-day course: Fashion Photography: The Look and the Lens (Online)
31 October 2025
£49.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Related events
Header image: Simone wears fashion by Venet, photograph by Melvin Sokolsky, River Seine, Paris, American Harper's Bazaar, March 1963. Museum no. PH.732-1987. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London