London Fashion Week Feb 2025: A Photographer’s Journey Through Style, Chaos, and Creativity
As the calendar flips closer to February 2025, the buzz of London Fashion Week (LFW) is again on the horizon. This is my third time attending this iconic event, though this year will be slightly different. With the soaring costs of hotels and travel, I’ve decided to limit my trip to just one day—a far cry from my first LFW experience, where I immersed myself in the entire week. Back then, I had the luxury of capturing every moment, from the secret show locations to the street style at the Selfridges. I snagged that legendary shot of Ashley Graham, a world-renowned fashion model. It was a whirlwind of excitement, confusion, and creativity, and it remains my favourite Fashion Week.
Last year, I only attended the September 2024 shows, skipping the February event altogether. Even then, I condensed my experience into a single day, which I documented in a video on my YouTube channel (linked at the top of this post). While it was a shorter visit, it still gave me a taste of the energy and inspiration that Fashion Week brings. I hope to capture more this time than I did in September, though I know it’ll be hard to top the magic of that first LFW. Here is the link to the London Fashion Week Gallery.
The Hunt for Secret Shows and Hidden Gems
One of the most thrilling aspects of London Fashion Week is the unpredictability. While some shows are held at well-known venues like the 180 Studios Strand (as listed on the official Fashion Week website), many designers opt for secret locations scattered across the city. These hidden shows are where the real magic happens, and I’m determined to find my way into at least one of them this time.
During my first LFW, I winged it—hopping on the press bus, sneaking into shows, and relying on sheer luck and determination. I hope to channel that same adventurous spirit this year, though I’d love to be more strategic. Whether following whispers of a secret location or simply stumbling into something extraordinary, I’m ready to embrace the chaos.
Gear Choices: Keeping It Compact and Stylish
As a photographer, one of the biggest challenges of Fashion Week is deciding what gear to bring. With limited daylight hours and needing to stay mobile, I must be selective. This year, I’m leaning toward my Leica M11 (https://shorturl.at/WuIfi) paired with the Voigtlander 35mm VM Ultron f/2 Type II lens (https://shorturl.at/cC0yp). It’s a setup that allows me to stand out from the crowd of photographers wielding bulky DSLRs and zoom lenses. Plus, it lets me maintain my street photography style while capturing the posed portraits that Fashion Week demands.
I’m also bringing a speedlight flash, but I am torn between the LightPix Lab Q20II *(https://amzn.to/3WfEydm) and the Godox TT350N *(https://amzn.to/40c9Vqq). While each has pros and cons, I’ll likely choose the Godox for its portability, even if it means sacrificing off-camera flash capabilities.
The Heart of Fashion Week: Connections and Creativity
For me, Fashion Week isn’t just about the photos—it’s about the people. I’m drawn to those who dare to stand out and embrace bold, unique styles that defy convention. In many ways, it reflects my approach to photography and life. I’ve even printed a fresh set of business cards for this event, hoping to connect with fellow creatives, designers, and fashion enthusiasts. You never know what opportunities might arise from a simple conversation or exchange of business cards.
This year, I’m keeping my expectations low but my ambitions high. I want to capture as many unique moments as possible, from the avant-garde street styles to the behind-the-scenes energy of the shows. Of course, I’ll document it all for my YouTube Channel so you can join me on this journey.
The Buzz of Fashion Week
There’s something electric about Fashion Week—the energy, the creativity, the sheer audacity of it all. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Whether navigating secret shows, experimenting with my gear, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, I know this year’s LFW will be an adventure.
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll share the highlights of my experience. For a behind-the-scenes look, check out the YouTube video. Until then, here’s to embracing chaos, chasing light, and celebrating the bold, unique, and unforgettable.
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