Now that the 2019 Talent of Tomorrow campaign has finally been released into the world, we’re delighted to introduce our talent photographer Erika Astrid, as snapped by our amazing team of volunteers during the shoot.
Erika is a German-born, Brooklyn-based fashion photographer who has previously shot for brands like Fendi and publications like Nylon Germany, Hunger Magazine, Harpers Bazaar Mexico, Wonderland, Vogue.IT, and many more. We speak to Erika about the shoot, her tips for aspiring fashion photographers and her plans for the future.
Hi Erika! Thanks for joining us on the GFW19 Talent of Tomorrow Shoot. What drew you to working with GFW on the 2019 campaign?
When I was asked to shoot the campaign I immediately said yes because I love supporting artists whenever I can. And bringing the designs to life with the shoot was so fun.
Photo by Olivia Ferrera-Forbes
How did you develop your own aesthetic as a photographer?
Like my last answer, this is still a work in progress and I am constantly trying new things. People say I have a style but I don’t see it, I guess I haven’t found myself yet. I love creating and capturing the person I am shooting, so every shoot is different for me. I don’t have a set vision until the day of the shoot, sure I have a mood board and idea but that always evolves the day of the shoot..
Photo by Olivia Ferrera-Forbes
Photo by Jade Berry
What advice would you give a young person wanting to break into fashion photography?
Just keep shooting, don’t compare yourself, look at all kinds of imagery/art and try not to copy anyone. Its ok to be inspired by other peoples work and maybe learn some techniques but still find your own voice by trial and error. And don’t ever give up because the people that are successful (whatever that means to you) are the ones that never gave up.
Photo by Emilie Risi
Social media has massively changed how people consume fashion photography — it is more accessible than ever but also more disposable. What do you think about the rising importance of social media and how does it impact your job?
I try not to take social media too seriously but use it as a tool to put my work out there. I treat it as it is — a tool that could be gone tomorrow (and probably will be at some point). I also try to stay off of it as much as I can because it can suck you in which I don’t find healthy.
What has been the most memorable experience of your career so far?
So many things, I just recently shot an actress who was on my bucket list of people to shoot. I also love how much I get to travel for work but I really love living in NYC and even though I have to get out of it every couple months its always the best place to come home to and I don’t think I would be living here if it wasn’t for my work.
Check out the full campaign and influencers shoot below!
