Do you appreciate Sarah Moon’s approach to photography? Let us know in the comments.

While researching fashion photography styles for DPC’s programme for 2024, I came across a YouTube clip of Sarah Moon’s work. Although fashion photography isn’t my primary, or even secondary focus, I find it captivating. Had I discovered photography earlier, perhaps I might have pursued it. As a photography educator with a keen interest in fine art, I am continually intrigued and inspired by Sarah Moon’s work, which bridges these two genres beautifully. Sarah, a former supermodel turned photographer, stands out from other renowned fashion photographers – whose work I also admire – like Helmut Newton and Peter Lindbergh, who often portray power and a sense of masculinity in their female subjects. In contrast, Sarah Moon celebrates femininity in her photography.
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Her work exudes a poetic, painterly quality, often using soft focus and muted colours. Her images, reminiscent of fairy tales or eras past, invite us into realms of femininity, beauty, and contemplation. Sarah Moon’s approach to fashion is less about power and more about grace and emotion, offering a nostalgic and timeless perspective that sharply contrasts with the edgier aesthetics of photographers like Newton.
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Technically, Sarah is recognised for her preference for polaroid and medium format cameras, opting for film rather than digital. This contributes to the distinctive feel of her work. Her experimental approach to printing adds to the unique atmosphere of her images. Moon’s photographs go beyond commercial fashion, entering the realm of fine art and are displayed in renowned galleries worldwide. Her work effectively merges commercial and artistic photography.

Bold and Visionary for its time – the perfect imperfect. Captivating, Sensual, Enlightening – stretches ones imagination about true artistic creativity generating a visual impact that leaves me mesmerized as to the extent at which some people are able to explore and harness their natural talent.