Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to style.
Here, fashion photographer Alexio Yeoh shares his insights on achieving that refined, campaign-worthy look in every frame.
I’ve always heard that dressing for real life isn’t the same as dressing for the camera. What are some insider tips on clothes or accessories that don’t photograph well? – Nina, Shah Alam
No prints on prints, keep it simple. If you’re wearing prints, avoid standing in front of a busy or complicated background, or the photo will feel very messy.
Always balance it out if your outfit is loud, go for a clean, minimal background if the background is detailed, keep the outfit simple.
That’s how you stand out!
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What’s your top advice for taking fashion photos with a mobile phone? Are there specific camera settings that can make my OOTD shots look less amateurish? – Marina, Penang
The best approach is to experiment with filters – there are plenty to explore that can instantly make your photos feel more fashionable.
A little editing never hurts either. Simple adjustments to exposure, contrast and skin tone (using your phone’s built-in tools) can quickly elevate a shot from amateur to editorial and polished, especially in terms of colour.
Always remember that colour temperature can also make a significant difference to the overall mood.
I’ve seen social media videos suggesting that moving around and taking burst shots helps create more natural yet stylish photos. But whenever I try it, my pictures turn out blurry. What am I doing wrong? – Non, JB
You’re probably moving too much, or at the wrong speed for the camera shutter.
That “walk plus burst mode” trick only works when movement, lighting, shutter speed and timing are all balanced together.
Start with a few still poses, then gradually introduce subtle movement.
This way, burst shots can still capture smooth, natural motion.
Either you or the camera can move – but it needs to be controlled and intentional.
Are there any go-to phone camera settings for better fashion shots? Should I use portrait mode or stick to the normal camera mode? – Lorraine, KK
For fashion shots, the best mode
actually depends on the type of image you’re going for – clean editorial, luxury candid, runway vibe, beauty close-ups, and so on.
In general, though, the default recommendation for fashion photography is to stick with “normal” camera mode most of the time.
Portrait mode is often overrated for fashion on phones, as it can blur out clothing details or even parts of the hair incorrectly, depending on the device.
Should people avoid prints like tight stripes or small checks because they can create a shimmering effect in photos. Why does it happen? – Rinie, Seremban
Yes, that’s absolutely true, especially with phone cameras and digital sensors, where the camera can sometimes struggle and misread patterns.
Fashion photographers usually avoid shooting prints on prints, as it can quickly look visually overwhelming.
That said, there are no strict rules in fashion – unless you’re a renowned designer intentionally pushing boundaries, it often comes down to how well the elements are balanced and intentionally styled.
Is it true that mobile phone cameras can create a “fish-eye” effect? How can I avoid that when taking fit-check photos of my outfit? – Lulu, PJ
Just use the normal photo mode for fit checks , it looks more natural and accurate.
Avoid wide-angle mode because it can distort your body and outfit. If you can’t fit everything in the frame, step further back instead of switching to wide angle.
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What’s the best way to take a mirror fit-check selfie? Should I use the phone’s front or rear camera? And how should I angle the phone to get the most flattering shot while still showing off the outfit properly? – Sheng, Melaka
It is best to avoid using the selfie camera for fit checks. The rear camera is usually much better and clearer.
Keep the phone position as straight as possible for the best proportions. Also, avoid shooting from a high angle, as it can make you look shorter and distort the outfit.
Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert at lifestyle@thestar.com.my. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.
