On Location: Environmental Fashion Narratives
I use natural landscapes and architecture to ground fashion campaigns. Here is my approach to weaving environments into visual storytelling.
A wide shot from a menswear editorial on the coast. I chose this location for its dramatic cliffs and soft sunset light, creating a romantic and expansive backdrop for the collection.
A closer view of the models against the sea. The golden hour light was a crucial element of my creative direction, adding warmth and a nostalgic quality to the images.
A full-length shot of the two models, with the vast ocean behind them. The composition emphasizes a sense of freedom and connection, which was the core theme of this editorial.
This fashion film captures the essence of a menswear collection on location. My direction focused on the models' interaction with the environment, using natural light and movement to tell a story of brotherhood and modern style.
An environmental portrait from a menswear shoot in Goa. I used the unique architecture and colors of the local buildings as a natural set to create a strong sense of place.
For this shot, I used a brightly colored wall as a graphic background. The contrast between the vibrant pink and the model's all-black outfit creates a bold, high-impact fashion image.
Another shot from the Goa series, using a textured red wall to create a warm and powerful composition. The location itself becomes a key part of the visual identity.
A fashion film created for a menswear brand, featuring two models in coordinated striped denim looks. The video uses a vintage filter and outdoor setting to tell a story of travel and companionship.
A shot from a campaign for sustainable brand Pozruh, set in a "secret garden." The model is walking away from the camera, creating a sense of mystery and inviting the viewer into the brand's world.
A portrait from the same garden shoot. The soft, natural light and the abundance of flowers and greenery reinforce the brand's connection to nature.
About On Location: Environmental Narratives
Location shoots demand precise coordination. I treat the setting as a character, balancing natural light and terrain to ensure the garment sits within the environment rather than against it. My team and I manage the logistical variables, from changing weather patterns to surface textures, so the visual narrative remains coherent and on-brand.
Technical Execution on Location
Moving from a controlled studio environment to the field requires a different set of technical priorities. My process for environmental narratives begins with location scouting to understand how light moves across the space at different times of the day. Whether we are shooting on a coastline, in a forest, or against local architecture in Goa, the goal is to align the wardrobe with the setting.
The Collaborative Process
Outdoor shoots are rarely a one-person job. I coordinate with my team of photographers, assistants, and production crew to ensure we maintain high production standards despite the lack of controlled infrastructure.
- Wardrobe Care: Handling delicate garments in wind, dust, or humidity requires specific preparation, including professional steaming and rapid-change support on-site.
- Lighting & Composition: I work closely with the photographer to utilize natural light as a tool for texture and color enhancement, rather than just illumination.
- Prop & Set Design: Often, the environment provides the set, but I introduce specific props to build a narrative bridge between the brand product and the landscape.
Why Environmental Storytelling
Brands often seek this style to add authenticity and scale to their campaigns. By placing a collection in a real-world context, we create a stronger connection with the audience. My experience includes managing these setups for both sustainable fashion brands and commercial menswear editorials, ensuring the final image is a result of technical planning and creative direction.
Gaurav Bhatia
I am Gaurav. My work focuses on the intersection of art direction and real-world environments. Every project is a collaborative effort with my team, where we use our combined experience to manage the complexity of outdoor sets.
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